Basic electrical materials used in electrical installations

The service life of electrical wiring largely depends on the quality of electrical materials used during installation. As a rule, all electrical installation work begins with the purchase of necessary materials and electrical equipment.

Our company uses only high-quality, time-tested products from well-known manufacturers.

List of electrical materials used in electrical installation:

• automatic switches, RCD;
• electrical cabinets, panels, boxes;
• wires and cables;
• sockets and switches;
• cable ducts, trays, corrugation;
• terminal blocks, terminal blocks;
• PVC pipes, HDPE, metal.

Circuit breaker

Automatic switches, RCDs

A circuit breaker is a mechanical device that is used to conduct, turn on and turn off electrical currents. The device is also capable of turning on, conducting currents at a given time and automatically turning them off in a specified abnormal state of the circuit, such as overload, short circuit.

Main technical characteristics:

A residual current device (RCD) is a mechanical device that, when the differential current is exceeded, causes the contacts to open.

RCDs are divided into the following types: AC, A, B, S.

AC type

— An RCD that responds to an alternating sinusoidal differential current that occurs suddenly or slowly increases.

Type A

- a protective shutdown device that responds to alternating sinusoidal differential currents, pulsating direct differential currents that arise suddenly or slowly increase.

Type B

— a protective shutdown device that responds to alternating, direct and rectified differential currents.

Type S

— residual current device, selective (with a shutdown time delay.

A differential circuit breaker is a device that combines the functions of an RCD and a circuit breaker.

Electricity input

In a new building, especially if we are talking about a private house, it is often necessary to take care of the electrical input. There are two options on how to do this:

1. Input from overhead line by air.
2. Cable entry underground.

What materials need to be prepared for each situation? The branch from the overhead line is made using SIP wire. In addition to the wire itself, you will also need piercing cable clamps or so-called nuts. With their help, wires are connected to the line without removing the voltage.

For underground input, you need an armored VBBShV cable or a regular VVG cable, but then all unarmored underground products must be laid in a HDPE corrugated pipe. It will protect against damage in the event of soil displacement and exposure to loads during operation.

Further electrical installation involves assembling the electrical panel. A modern input panel consists of:

• Automatic switches;
• RCD;
• Voltage relays and other automation.

Sometimes the first two points are replaced with difavtomats. All modern electrical installation products are installed on a DIN rail. According to the choice of manufacturers, the leading positions are occupied by the following companies:

• Schneider electric;
• ABB;
• Legrand.

A more budget-friendly option is products from IEK; the quality of this company’s materials is quite acceptable, but according to the experience of many electricians, they often come across fakes.

It is also worth noting that most experts agree that among domestic manufacturers, KEAZ brand products can be distinguished.

Electrical cabinets, boxes, panels

Switchboard

To ensure protection of electrical equipment from environmental influences (dust, water, etc.), special anti-corrosion electrical cabinets, panels, and boxes are used. The size and design of the cabinet is selected to suit the needs of a specific facility. Electrical installation of equipment is carried out using a built-in mounting panel on specialized elements.

Depending on the function performed, electrical panels are divided into distribution, power, lighting, control and automation panels.

Electrical installation products and materials

To carry out high-quality electrical work in a house, it is necessary to perform many operations using various products and materials. Today the market provides a wide range of products for all occasions. This includes wires of various types and cross-sections, fasteners, boxes for various purposes, metal and plastic sleeves and much more. This section provides information about general purpose products and materials that are widely used in the installation of household electrical wiring. Of course, you can do without much if it does not affect the quality and reliability of the installed electrical system.

A metal hose is a flexible pipeline made of galvanized steel tape and designed to protect wires and cables from mechanical damage. It is typically used for wiring inside cavity walls and ceilings. The metal hose connected to the protective ground provides effective protection from external electromagnetic radiation.

Corrugated PVC pipes are designed to protect current-carrying elements and various electrical devices operating at voltages up to 1000 V DC and AC, with a frequency of 50 Hz. They are also widely used to protect wires laid under cement floor screed.

A metal hose in PVC insulation protects wires and cables from mechanical damage and provides protection from electric shock. In addition, the PVC sheath makes the metal hose waterproof and resistant to harmful environmental influences at temperatures from -40 to +50°C.

Plastic pipes. To install hidden wiring under screed or plaster, smooth plastic pipes can be used. This method, despite the additional costs, has its advantages. The pipe provides the wire with additional protection and allows you to easily replace the damaged section of the wiring.

Corrugated pipes can be used in conjunction with plastic fittings to create an effectively fire-proof electrical system. This technology is quite suitable for wiring in a wooden house. Some increase in cost is fully compensated by a significant increase in safety and easy replacement of damaged wiring sections.

PVC cable ducts are used to protect external wiring from mechanical damage. These products give the wiring an aesthetic appearance. Their material is fireproof and absolutely environmentally friendly. Cable channels can be of different sections and colors and equipped with a variety of accessories, allowing you to create a single functional electrical power system in the room.

Polypropylene staples. To fasten cables and wires to wooden building structures, polypropylene staples are often used, which are secured to the surface with nails. The shape of the mounting bracket (square or round) is selected depending on the type of cable (flat or round). The size of the bracket is selected according to the size of the wire.

Dowel clamps are designed for fastening wires to concrete or brick walls.

Cable ties are used to secure multiple wires together into separate bundles. A wide range of colors of clamps allows them to be used for marking wires that perform various functions

Distribution boxes are designed for branching wires for hidden or open electrical wiring in premises for various purposes. You can also place surge protection elements or terminal blocks for connecting neutral and protective wires in the distribution box. Depending on the installation location, distribution boxes can have different shapes and be either metal or plastic. When installing outdoors, waterproof distribution boxes should be used. Metal distribution boxes are installed, as a rule, in technical rooms with increased fire hazard and humidity.

Terminal blocks of various designs are designed to connect both neutral and phase wires. Thanks to screw terminals, they allow for quick and reliable installation.

Terminal blocks are widely used in the installation of household electrical wiring. They provide reliable electrical contact, good connection insulation and neat, compact wiring of conductors in junction boxes.

Installation boxes are used for fastening electrical installation products in wooden, brick and concrete walls, as well as in wood or plasterboard sheathing.

Connecting sleeves of various diameters are used to connect wires and cables with copper and aluminum conductors by crimping with special press pliers. Copper sleeves are used for crimping copper conductors, aluminum sleeves are used for crimping aluminum conductors.

To create a protected connection by crimping, sleeves with an insulating coating are used.

Cable lugs are used for terminating wires and cables of different sections for screw connections. Depending on the type of wires, these products can be copper, aluminum or aluminum-copper. Fork lugs are typically used for connections that require quick disassembly. Sleeve lugs are designed for terminating stranded flexible wires intended for connection to contact screw terminals of electrical equipment. They can be designed for either one or two wires.

Cable lugs and terminations are designed for terminating cable and wire cores in order to ensure electrical contact with current-receiving elements using bolt and screw clamps. The lugs on the wire are secured by crimping or soldering.

The tips are made of aluminum (for aluminum wires) or copper (for copper wires). In any case, uniformity in the type of metal at the joints must be ensured to prevent the formation of a galvanic couple and, as a consequence, destruction of the joint. Tinned copper lugs of the TL brand can be used for crimping aluminum conductors. Insulating-coated lugs are connected to the wire using a crimping method and provide an aesthetically pleasing and neat connection.

Screw terminals allow you to connect to the wire without the use of special tools.

Heat-shrinkable tubes are products made of polyolefin, the main property of which is the ability to reduce their diameter (shrink) under the influence of high temperature (from 70 to 120 ° C) several times. When shrinking, the tube tightly envelops the object and thereby provides mechanical or electrical protection.

Uniform heating of the heat-shrinkable tube is carried out using a technical hair dryer, a gas burner or a regular lighter. The process is fast enough that you can use heat shrink tubing instead of electrical tape.

Colored heat shrink tubing allows you to provide electrical protection to the connection and at the same time indicate the functional feature of the wire (for example, highlight phase wires).

PPE caps allow you to quickly and efficiently connect two or more wires, as well as ensure their reliable insulation. When the cap is screwed onto the connected conductors, the spring located inside tightly compresses the exposed conductors, creating reliable contact between them with low transition resistance.

PPE caps come in different sizes and colors, which allows them to be used for wires of various cross-sections and at the same time color designate certain lines of the electrical system.

See also:

• Methods of connecting wires, technical requirements
• Laying the wire in a metal hose. Tools and materials

Electrical wires and cables

Electrical wires and cables

Most often, the reason for replacing the wiring in a private home is cable wear, so it is better to entrust the choice of electrical wire to specialists. When choosing an electrical cable, you need to take into account the power consumption, operating conditions and what type of equipment will be used.

The main cable and wire products used in electrical installations:

• For entry into the building by air - SIP-1, SIP-2, SIP-3 (Insulated self-supporting wires for overhead power lines TU 16-705.500-2006).
• For underground entry into the building - AVBbShv, VBBShV, ASBL, AAShv (Bronekabel).
• For internal wiring, VVGngLS, VVGng, NYM are used.

Electrical installation products.

After installing the cables, you can begin installing sockets and single or double switches.

In wooden buildings, as a rule, surface-mounted electrical sockets are installed, as well as surface-mounted switches equipped with a non-combustible base.

For electrical installation in brick, concrete, cinder block buildings, internal electrical sockets, as well as internal switches, are used.

All materials for electrical installation work must be of high quality and meet all accepted standard requirements.
Saving money is not appropriate here, as it can be too expensive. In the event of a short circuit due to improper installation or poor quality materials, the losses can be very large. Tweet

Galvanized mounting tapes

Galvanized perforated tape is used for installation of air ducts in ventilation systems. It allows you to fasten pipelines of various diameters and is available in a variety of standard sizes. Punched paper tape is supplied in rolls of 10, 25 and 50 meters. We offer high-quality products from DVS, which are strong and durable. The fiber structure with holes ensures ease of installation, and the zinc coating protects the fastener from corrosion, which allows it to be used both indoors with high humidity and outdoors.

Fire protection of air ducts

Fire protection means for air ducts are used in smoke removal ventilation systems, reducing damage to the structure in the event of a fire. Fire protection material plays a vital role, since the delay in the spread of flame and the protection of chimneys depend on its characteristics.

Our range includes the following protective equipment:

• bizol;
• MBOR.

Their use is extremely necessary, since if the integrity of the air duct is damaged, the flame can quickly spread through the ventilation ducts, which will lead to an intensification of the fire and destruction of the building. The thermal insulation coating is attached to the pipe, providing thermal insulation and comprehensive thermal protection. By contacting our company, you can buy high-quality rolled fire protection for air ducts, as well as receive advice on its installation and operation.

Different types and sizes of screwdrivers

Basically, almost all models of screwdrivers have the following type of handle: the end with a wide round “back” without sharp corners, near the shaft there is a narrow gap. Its length generally increases in proportion to the size of the instrument. In small types with a short shaft, which are used for working in hard-to-reach spaces, the handle is shaped like a spherical one. The round handle is designed to prevent the screwdriver from falling off tables or other surfaces. To increase grip on the hand, the surface of the handle is treated with rubber.

Screwdriver from BOSCH

When selecting a screwdriver, you need to take it and try to twist it. If the tool fits, it will feel nice in the palm of your hand. When purchasing a cheap tool, it is imperative to inspect the end of the handle. It is always smooth, without bulges.

Types of screwdrivers and their purposes:

Phillips screwdriver tip

Set of crowns

A metal crown should be included in your home repair kit. Having such a crown often helps save money and time.

It is necessary to purchase only a high-quality product, preferably from well-known manufacturers.

Metal crown

The box must contain the dimensional characteristics, the country of manufacture (the quality of the crown depends on this), and the raw materials from which it is made. If the labeling is not indicated, then it is better not to buy this product.

During application, the factory recommendations should not be ignored. Using a crown for other purposes may simply break or deform it.

Characteristics of a metal crown:

• Increased quality of the raw materials from which it is made, so any metal can be processed;
• the presence of side holes that create removal of residues and cooling of the cutting part;
• The type and location of the incisors that perform the work;
• The depth can reach 50 mm.

Foams and sealants

To ensure the integrity of ventilation systems, it is important to ensure not only the reliability of the connection of air ducts and other system elements (tees, hoses, bends, etc.), but also to ensure the tightness of the joints of these parts. To perform these tasks, mounting foams and sealants are used, which must have a number of characteristics that prevent the integrity of air mass removal systems from being compromised.

Among the most popular sealants on the market, it is worth noting:

• polyurethane and polyurethane foam products;
• silicone sealants of neutral and acetate type;
• acrylic materials.

The following requirements apply to construction sealants:

• adhesiveness - they must quickly and firmly connect to surfaces of any type;
• strength - such a mixture should glue both wood and metal with plastic, providing protection for the structure from mechanical influences;
• resistance to chemicals;
• frost resistance;
• moisture resistance.

Unlike sealant, polyurethane foam is used not so much to connect two elements, but to seal cracks and holes when fastening one or another part of the ventilation system. With its help, you can cover (blow out) cracks by increasing the volume of the mixture when leaving the aerosol package. The mounting foam must have almost the same properties as the sealant, including waterproofing and thermal insulation characteristics. In our online store you can buy sealants and foams from the best domestic and foreign manufacturers.

Thermal insulation of air ducts

From us you can also buy thermal insulation of air ducts, which is used to insulate the entire surface of the ventilation system. We offer products made from high-quality material (foamed polyethylene foam), which is additionally equipped with a metal film to hide pores. This type of thermal insulation is easy to glue to air ducts due to its self-adhesive surface, and it has the following advantages:

• non-flammable outer layer;
• provides protection of air ducts from moisture, preventing rotting and corrosion;
• does not collapse under direct rays of the sun;
• withstands contact with chemicals, including gasoline and oil;
• maintains performance characteristics over a long period.

In addition to its heat-insulating function, this material reduces the sound level during the passage of air masses, and also prevents the appearance of condensation both outside and inside the system.

For more detailed information (calculation of working area, calculator of necessary consumables, prices and other nuances of cooperation), you can contact our consultants. We are waiting for your orders!

Tools for stripping wires

A real electrician's kit must have an item for cleaning insulation from wires; it is needed for stripping conductors when connecting sockets, cables, cutting wiring, and so on. You will also need such a tool for household use if you need to carry out home repairs.

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Wire crimping tool

Note! An electrician's knife is mainly needed for cleaning flat cables. Experienced specialists will easily strip the insulation from other types of wires, but the practicality of use will be less.

A knife is the most common tool for stripping cables, making the work process as easy as possible. This type of device has a large number of models, so everyone can choose something for themselves.

The operating principle is based on processing the wire with two movable blades that have a rounded appearance.

Pliers, pliers

These tools belong to the pliers, they are also called pliers. All of them are used to manage objects, as well as to perform various operations. The main differences between these two items:

• pliers are a highly specialized tool, pliers have many functions;
• the lips of the pliers are flat, with a small notch along the entire head;
• in pliers, the flat side of the jaws is slightly shorter, and for gripping round objects they are equipped with figured sinuses with a large notch;

Dielectric side cutter up to 1000V

• pliers are equipped with cutting edges and also have transverse cutters to break wires or nails;
• pliers are made of higher quality and more expensive steel, highly hardened.

Drill with different attachments and drill bits

Every man should also have a drill, because it is suitable for both construction and finishing work. In some options, you can only use a screwdriver.

Drill kit

In addition to a drill, a hammer drill can often come in handy. It is well suited for drilling holes in concrete and chiseling walls.

Sometimes craftsmen use a hammer and chisel during their work. But this is already a thing of the past, because there are many tools to make chiseling work easier. It is not recommended to use chisels for this process. They are used for finishing.

Wiring installation

Let's consider what is needed for electrical work in a house and apartment. Materials for installation of electrical wiring primarily include cable products. In most cases, they do not pay due attention to such an important issue and trust contractors. However, the quality of the cable determines the durability of the electrical installation.

To install wiring in an apartment, you need to use a VVG cable. It consists of a flexible solid copper conductor, a vinyl sheath of the conductors and an overall vinyl sheath.

Now its modifications are presented on the market:

• VVGng - the prefix -ng, indicates that the cable is made of materials that do not propagate combustion.
• VVGng-LS - the prefix -ls indicates that it not only does not spread combustion, but also emits a small amount of smoke.

You can also use NYM cable for electrical wiring; it consists of flexible stranded copper conductors covered with a PVC sheath and the overall sheath is also made of PVC. In other characteristics it is similar to VVGng-LS.

PVS wires and ShVVP brand cords are not intended for use in permanent wiring. Their purpose is extension cords and use as a power cord for mobile electrical appliances and household appliances.

To connect the wires you will need WAGO terminal blocks, standard terminal blocks or special sleeves. You can also connect the wires by welding, but for this you will need a special welding machine and consumables such as electrodes and flux.

Mounting traverse

This type of consumable fastening material is used for installation of air ducts with a rectangular cross-section. The product is a C-shaped perforated metal profile, which is manufactured in lengths from two to six meters. Among the advantages of this product it is worth noting:

• corrosion protection due to the use of galvanized or stainless steel;
• wide selection of standard sizes (20x30, 38x40, etc.) reinforced profile;
• ease of installation without the need for welding;
• ensuring the reliability of the design of air ducts, heating pipes, sewerage and water supply without compromising their integrity;
• versatility of operation of the part, as well as the possibility of both vertical and horizontal fastening;
• increasing the reliability of fastening even large structures with heavy weight.

From us you can buy high-quality mounting traverses at a competitive price.

Indicator screwdrivers

The main purpose of this device is to test the presence or absence of a working phase in the electrical network.

This screwdriver allows you to quickly repair electrical circuits.

Flat indicator screwdriver

Even a novice electrician should have this type of screwdriver. When the phase wire is touched, the signal light turns on; when the neutral wire is connected, it does not react.

Before work, you need to touch the indicator on the handle of the device with your fingers (it is mainly located at its end). Three-phase indicators are also available. They are equipped with four terminals.

When the phase wires are connected correctly, the indicator disk operates in the direction marked by the arrow.

Low voltage indication

The expediency of its use is determined mainly by the fact that electric current cannot be seen with the eyes - its presence can only be understood by whether the device connected to the outlet is functioning or not.

Voltage indicator

Passive screwdriver. This is a simple household phase indicator that performs one single option - it indicates the presence or absence of voltage in a certain place in the electrical circuit.

Experienced craftsmen do not use passive screwdrivers because they have too few functions, but they are great for home use.

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Universal active screwdriver

This tool will be an excellent variant of the previous model - it has a switch, you can control the sensitivity of the screwdriver, and also use it in contact and non-contact mode.

Multimeter

A multimeter, also called a tester, is a popular measuring tool used to measure all the basic parameters of electrical circuits. It measures resistance, current, voltage, and various indicators.

Electrical tester

Analog multimeter

The main advantage of classic types will be reliability and low cost. But in such devices the error is too large. Therefore, it is not recommended to use them for work, but for home use they are quite suitable.

Digital multimeter

The main difference is that in digital forms all indicators are displayed on a liquid crystal screen.

To take measurements, you need to connect the black wire to minus and the red wire to plus.

Spanners

In many cases, when carrying out installation work, wrenches may be necessary. These tools must be marked and match the diameter of the bolts and nuts. The jaws of the tool should be parallel, there should be no protruding pieces or chips, and the handle should fit comfortably in the palm of your hand.

Various wrench diameters

Instruments must be marked as follows:

• manufacturer's trademark;
• round spline nut size;
• indication of the alloy from which the key is made.

Wrenches with an open hole at the end. This tool helps to work with nuts and bolts when there is enough tightness above the nut. It is necessary when the bolt head is inaccessible.

Not suitable for deeply and tightly screwed bolts.

Combination keys. One side is open, the other is closed. The cap side can have up to twenty edges.