Chapter Three - Installation49System PowerUsing isolation transformers on the incoming AC power line to the system is alwaysa good practice. An isolation transformer is especially desirable in cases in whichheavy equipment is likely to introduce noise onto the AC line. The isolationtransformer can also serve as a step-down transformer to reduce the incoming linevoltage to a desired level. The transformer should have a sufficient power rating(units of volt-amperes) to supply the load adequately.Proper grounding is essential to all safe electrical installations. Refer to the relevantFederal, State/Provincial, and local electric codes which provides data such as thesize and types of conductors, color codes and connections necessary for safegrounding of electrical components. The code specifies that a grounding path mustbe permanent (no solder), continuous, and able to safely conduct the ground-faultcurrent in the system with minimal impedance (minimum wire required is 18 Awg, 1mm).Observe the following practices:• Separate ground wires (P.E. or Protective Earth) from power wires at the point ofentry to the enclosure. To minimize the ground wire length within the enclosure,locate the ground reference point near the point of entry for the plant power supply.• All electrical racks or chassis and machine elements should be Earth Grounded ininstallations where high levels of electrical noise can be expected. The rack/chassisshould be grounded with a ground rod or attached to nearby Earth structure such as asteel support beam. Each different apparatus should be connected to a single EarthGround point in a “star” configuration with low impedance cable. Scrape away paintand other nonconductive material from the area where a chassis makes contact withthe enclosure. In addition to the ground connection made through the mounting boltor stud, use a one-inch metal braid or size #8 AWG wire to connect between eachchassis and the enclosure at the mounting bolt or stud.Excessive HeatThe units withstand temperatures from 0º to 50ºC. The systems are cooled byconvection, in which a vertical column of air is drawn in an upward direction overthe surface of its components. To keep the temperature in range, the cooling air atthe base of the system must not exceed 50°C. Allocate proper spacing betweeninternal components installed in the enclosure.When the air temperature is higher than the specified maximum in the enclosure, usea fan or air conditioner to lower the temperature.Electrical NoiseElectrical noise is seldom responsible for damaging components, unless extremelyhigh energy or high voltage levels are present. However, noise can cause temporarymalfunctions that can result in hazardous machine operation in certain applications.Noise may be present only at certain times, may appear as widely spread intervals, orin some cases may exist continuously.Noise commonly enters through input, output, and power supply lines and may alsobe coupled through the capacitance between these lines and noise signal carrier lines.