Understanding your facility’s electrical system is crucial for every industrial refrigeration operator. This Basic Equipment Power course breaks down the complex world of electrical systems into manageable sections, focusing on practical knowledge and troubleshooting skills. You’ll learn:

Electrical Power Distribution: Trace the path of electrical power from the utility company’s transformer, through the main breaker, to distribution panels and finally to individual equipment like compressors, condensers, evaporators, and pumps. Understand the function of each component in this power distribution loop.

Electrical Control Systems: Differentiate between electrical power (making things move) and electrical control (initiating actions). Learn how control systems, including computer controls and simpler thermostats, regulate equipment operation.

Troubleshooting Basics: Gain practical skills for identifying common electrical issues. Learn how to safely reset tripped breakers, check for power at MCC buckets, and identify potential problems with thermal overloads. Understand the importance of knowing when to call a qualified electrician.

Motor Control Centers (MCCs): Explore the components within an MCC bucket, including disconnect handles, indicator lights, and reset buttons. Learn how to perform basic checks on MCCs to diagnose equipment malfunctions.

Control System Components: Understand the basics of control systems, including input and output cards, fuses, and selector switches. Learn how to check for proper voltage and identify potential issues with these components.

Contactors and Solenoids: Learn how contactors use low-voltage control signals to switch high-voltage power to equipment. Understand the function of solenoid valves in controlling refrigerant flow and how to check for power at these valves.

Simple Control Systems: Explore the operation of basic control systems like thermostats and defrost control clocks, commonly found in older refrigeration setups.

Safety First: Understand the importance of electrical safety and when to defer to a qualified electrician, especially regarding high-voltage equipment and arc flash hazards.

This course provides you with the essential knowledge to understand your facility’s electrical systems, perform basic troubleshooting, and work safely around electrical equipment. It empowers you to identify and resolve minor issues, and to recognize when expert help is needed.