Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 2
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS DESIGN
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ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS DESIGN
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Subject: Applied Technology
Class: SHS 2
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 14
Grade code: 2.5.1.LI.2
Strand code: 5
Sub-strand code: 1
Content standard code: 2.5.1.CS.1
Indicator code: 2.5.1.LI.2
Theme: ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC TECHNOLOGY
Subtheme: ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS DESIGN
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Welcome, future technicians and engineers! Every day, we use electricity in our homes, schools, and businesses. From the light switch on the wall to the socket where we charge our phones, these systems are installed by skilled electricians. But what does an electrician need to do their job safely and effectively? They need the right tools! This lesson introduces you to the essential tools and equipment used in house wiring. Understanding these tools is the first step towards becoming a competent, safe, and professional electrical technician. It is a practical skill that can lead to a rewarding career or simply help you manage basic electrical issues safely at home.
The tools used in house wiring can be grouped into several categories. We will explore the most common ones. A key rule for all electrical tools is that those used on or near live circuits must have insulated handles (usually made of rubber or thick plastic) to protect the user from electric shock. A. Hand Tools
These are the fundamental tools every electrician carries.
| Tool Name | Image/Description | Function(s) | Care and Maintenance | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Combination Pliers | A versatile tool with a flat gripping surface, a serrated section for pipes, and a cutting edge. | 1. Gripping and holding wires. 2. Bending and twisting conductors. 3. Cutting small to medium-gauge wires. | Keep the pivot point lightly oiled. Clean jaws after use. Do not use as a hammer. | | Long Nose (Snipe Nose) Pliers | Has long, tapering jaws. | 1. Reaching into tight spaces. 2. Creating loops at the end of wires for terminal connections. 3. Gripping small nuts and components. | Avoid using on large bolts as this can damage the fine tips. Keep dry to prevent rust. | | Side Cutters (Diagonal Pliers) | Has sharp, angled cutting edges. | 1. Cutting wires flush against a surface. 2. Trimming cable sheaths and conductors. | Only cut soft wires like copper or aluminium. Cutting steel will damage the blades. Keep sharp. | | Wire Stripper | A tool with several calibrated holes or an adjustable blade. | 1. Removing the insulation from a conductor without damaging the copper or aluminium core. | Keep the blades clean and sharp. Do not use for cutting wires, as it's not designed for that force. | | Screwdrivers (Flathead & Philips/Star) | Used for driving or removing screws. Electrician's screwdrivers have insulated shafts. | 1. Flathead: For screws with a single slot. 2. Philips/Star: For cross-slotted screws, commonly found on sockets, switches, and consumer units. | Use the correct size and type for the screw head to avoid damage. Do not use as a chisel or pry bar. | | Utility Knife / Electrician's Knife | A sharp blade for cutting. | 1. Removing the outer sheath of large cables (e.g., armoured cables). 2. General cutting tasks. | Keep the blade sharp and clean. Always cut away from your body. Retract or cover the blade when not in use. | | Claw Hammer | Standard hammer with a striking face and a claw for pulling nails. | 1. Driving nails and clips to secure cables. 2. The claw can be used to remove old fixings. | Ensure the handle is secure. Strike squarely to avoid damaging surfaces. | | Cold Chisel | A steel bar with a sharp, flat end. | Used with a hammer to create channels (chases) in brick or concrete walls for embedding conduits and back boxes. | Keep the cutting edge sharp. Wear safety goggles to protect from flying debris. | B. Measuring and Testing Instruments
These tools are crucial for accuracy, safety, and troubleshooting.