Manufacturing Engineering Electrical Power Grid System Copyright © Texas Education Agency, All rights reserved. 1

Bell Work Activity Please take out a sheet of paper and complete the following. A.You live in an all electric house in a rural area. You are given two weeks notice that power will be shut down for 10 days. Make a list of the things you would need to purchase to sustain yourself without electricity. B.Focus on food and heating. Make a list of food products you would need to purchase or prepare. List ideas of how you would keep warm if it happened in the winter. 2 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, All rights reserved.

A.There are several important terms and definitions students need to know. B. Complete the Electrical Power Grid System Matching Terms and Definitions handout. Students may work in groups. Warm-Up Activity Electrical Power Grid System Terms and Definitions 3 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, All rights reserved.

Overview In previous lessons we have discussed how electricity is a natural phenomenon that occurs throughout our planet. Humans have observed electricity for centuries, and in recent history, the evolution of our technology has given us the ability to harness and control it for our benefit. 4 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, All rights reserved.

Theory of Operation of an Electrical Power Grid Most people are familiar with the use of electricity from the perspective of a consumer. We plug our devices into the wall and they work. We rarely think about the source of the electrical power that we have all come to rely on. The electrical power grid distribution system is the vital link to energy sources for our entire country. 5 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, All rights reserved.

Theory of Operation of an Electrical Power Grid Alternating Current (AC) is created by an electrical generator that is interconnected to the power grid. A transmission substation increases the voltage for long distance transportation along the power grid. The distribution grid reduces the voltage for customer usage and provides a means to route the (AC) to the required buildings. 6 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, All rights reserved.

Electrical Power Grid Terms Alternating Current (AC) Electrical generator Transmission substation Transmission grid Distribution grid Transformer drum Electrical meter Circuit breaker 7 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, All rights reserved.

Electrical Power Grid Layout 8 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, All rights reserved