Power & Utilities Training

Ash is the solid residue that is produced when coal is burned. To keep a coal-fired plant operating, ash must be collected, removed from the plant, and properly disposed of.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Auxiliary equipment is used to perform support operations in a typical coal handling system. Support operations, such as weighing coal and collecting coal samples, help provide important information for coal handling and other plant operations.This training program explains why coal is weighed and sampled, and describes some of the auxiliary equipment used to perform these jobs. It also covers some of the preventative maintenance tasks that coal handlers may perform to keep auxiliary equipment in good working condition.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Coal handlers operate and maintain the equipment used to transport and unload coal cars. This equipment may include rotary car dumpers, positioners, and retarders. To help coal handlers develop the skills needed to work safely with this equipment, this course describes how rotary car dumpers, positioners, and retarders work. It also explains how this equipment is generally operated during receiving operations, and how it is maintained.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Coal preparation is an important aspect of coal handling. When coal leaves a plant’s coal handling system, it generally is sent to one of two places. Depending on the design of the plant, the coal may go directly to a boiler furnace to be burned, or it may go through coal processing equipment, such as a pulverizer, before it is burned. In either case, coal usually has to be prepared during coal handling so that the pulverizing and burning will be more efficient. Coal preparation involves the use of special equipment that operators are often required to inspect, maintain, and troubleshoot. Operating coal preparation equipment properly can help prolong the life of the equipment and maximize the efficiency of the coal handling system.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The components of a coal handling system are operated with control equipment. The proper operation of the control equipment ensures that the components are started and stopped in the correct sequence so that coal moves smoothly from one component to the next. If one of the components in the sequence is not operated properly, the entire system could come to a stop, and equipment could be damaged. This course describes how control equipment is used to operate coal handling components so that they work together smoothly as a system. Troubleshooting procedures that can be used to determine the cause of a coal handling system malfunction also are covered.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Coal handlers operate and maintain the equipment used to transport coal to a plant for burning or to a coal pile for storage. This equipment includes conveyors, feeders, and chutes. Coal handlers must also inspect and maintain equipment such as magnetic separators and cleaning devices, which help transport operations run smoothly. This course explains how the equipment involved in transport operations works, and how it should be inspected and maintained.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Dust control is an important part of coal handling operations. This course looks at where coal dust is produced, how it can spread, and how it can be kept from spreading. Specific attention is directed to equipment and techniques that are commonly used to control dust in coal handling systems.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Dust from coal handling operations must be controlled to protect personal health, equipment, and the environment. There are many different types of equipment used to control coal dust, and operating it may be part of a coal yard worker’s job. Dust control equipment is classified into two main groups: equipment used to control dust inside buildings and equipment used to control dust outside in the coal yard. This course focuses on the equipment used in the coal yard.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Coal handlers work with a variety of equipment designed to help them perform the job of keeping a plant supplied with coal. This equipment, known collectively as the coal handling system, provides an efficient way of carrying out basic coal handling operations, which includes receiving, transporting, storing, and preparing coal. Coal handling systems can also be designed to perform other functions such as weighing coal, taking coal samples, controlling coal dust, and removing ash. This course explains how coal handling systems receive, transport, and store coal outdoors.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Coal handlers work with a variety of equipment designed to help them perform the job of keeping a plant supplied with coal. This equipment, known collectively as the coal handling system, provides an efficient way of carrying out basic coal handling operations. These operations include receiving, transporting, storing, and preparing coal. Coal handling systems can also be designed to perform other functions such as weighing coal, taking coal samples, and controlling coal dust. In addition, coal handlers may be involved in removing the ash produced when coal is burned. It is important for coal handlers to be familiar with the various types of coal handling equipment and with the jobs that they need to perform to keep a coal handling system operating safely and efficiently. This training program explains how coal handling systems generally operate. It also describes equipment that carries out some of the major operations and support functions involved in coal handling.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The coal that is delivered to a plant is often unloaded and sent directly to bunkers that supply the boiler furnaces. However, when the bunkers are full, the coal delivered to the plant is typically deposited on storage piles. Bulldozers are used to spread coal out on these storage piles and to reclaim coal from the piles when it is needed in the plant. Bulldozers are also used to manage coal piles to reduce the risk of fires and to minimize loss from erosion due to wind and rain. Coal handlers who use bulldozers must know how to operate them safely and correctly, and how to take care of them properly. This training program focuses on the use of bulldozers in coal handling operations. Emphasis is placed on practical applications, inspection procedures, minor maintenance procedures, and basic operating procedures.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Plants that need to burn large quantities of coal also need to maintain large coal reserves. The most common way of storing coal is in large outdoor storage piles.Coal pile management involves moving coal to and from storage piles, and maintaining the piles to deal with coal pile fires and environmental factors such as rain and wind.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Coal barges are generally loaded with coal dumped from trains. The loaded barges are taken to plants by tugboats, which also take the empty barges away to be reloaded. This course focuses on the operations involved in handling barges from the time they arrive at a plant until the empty barges are taken away. It examines in detail the components and operation of two types of barge unloaders: a bucket elevator unloader and a clamshell, or traveling tower, unloader.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

In this course, we’ll look at conditions that are associated with abnormal operations in a combined cycle power plant. We’ll examine some problems that can occur during a cold startup and a routine shutdown. We’ll also look at abnormal conditions associated with the heat recovery steam generator (HRSG) and the steam turbine/generator during routine operation.

Course Duration: 2 Hour(s)

In this course, we’ll focus on distributed control systems (DCS) as they relate to combined cycle power plants. We’ll look at the overall purpose of a DCS and examine the components that make up the system. We’ll also look at how a DCS can be used to monitor normal plant operation, and change device states and set points. And we’ll see how a DCS can be used to troubleshoot malfunctions and abnormalities.

Course Duration: 2 Hour(s)

In this course, we’ll focus on heat recovery steam generators as they apply to combined cycle power plants. We’ll cover some fundamentals related to the basic types of heat recovery steam generators (HRSGs) and to some general design considerations and we’ll look at the components found in the various sections of an HRSG.

Course Duration: 2 Hour(s)

In this program, we’ll cover some problems that can occur during operation of a simple cycle combustion turbine that drives an electric generator, and we’ll see how operators can deal with these problems. We’ll look at problems that can occur during startup and shutdown. We’ll also look at some of the abnormal conditions that can occur within the different component sections of the turbine generator unit, and its support systems.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

In this course, we will focus on the components that make up a typical combustion turbine, including those related to the intake and compression of the inlet air, the combustion of the fuel/air mixture, and the expansion of hot combustion gases through and out of the turbine.

Course Duration: 2 Hour(s)

In this course, we’ll focus on operator responsibilities that are typically associated with the normal operation of a simple cycle combustion turbine that drives an electric generator. We’ll see pre-startup checks that operators perform, and we’ll look at steps involved in starting up the unit and then shutting it down. We’ll also identify conditions that operators monitor during normal turbine operation, and we’ll cover some routine inspection and maintenance tasks that operators may perform.

Course Duration: 2 Hour(s)

In this course, we will focus primarily on combustion turbines that drive electric generators. From this perspective, we will go over the general principles of operation for a combustion turbine. We will look at the fundamentals of how combustion turbines work. We will examine factors that affect turbine efficiency, and we will see some of the many different applications in which combustion turbines are used.

Course Duration: 2 Hour(s)

This course is designed to teach participants how condenser performance can affect the efficiency of a generating unit. After completing this course, participants should be able to identify energy flows into and out of a condenser and know how these flows are related to the efficiency of the condenser and to unit heat rate. Participants should also be familiar with different methods of determining condenser efficiency, such as by checking parameters and indicators and using condenser performance curves and circulating water pump selection curves. In addition, participants learn how changes in condenser vacuum can affect unit heat rate and operating costs.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

This course is designed to familiarize participants with the basic concepts associated with what air pollution is and how it can be controlled. After completing this course, participants should be able to explain what air pollution is, where it can come from, and how it can be monitored. They should also be able to explain how air pollution from industrial facilities can be controlled.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

An important part of an operator’s job when working with any furnace is to make sure that the furnace is running efficiently in order to save fuel, maximize the amount o f heat that is produced, and minimize the amount of heat that is wasted. More importantly, careful furnace operation helps prevent explosions, injury, and damage to equipment.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Furnaces are an important source of heat for many industrial facilities. Furnaces, which can also be referred to as fired process heaters, are basically enclosed structures that produce heat by the combustion of fuels. This course will review the major components that make up furnaces, explain how combustion takes place inside a furnace, and identify the different flow paths inside a furnace.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

This course is designed to familiarize participants with general operator responsibilities associated with operating a furnace. After completing this course, participants should be able to identify instrumentation used to monitor furnace operating conditions and explain the basic operating principles, temperature control systems, and process fluid control systems. They should also be able to identify conditions that should be checked during furnace operations and explain how to detect and respond to abnormal conditions.

Course Duration: 2 Hour(s)

This course is designed to familiarize participants with the concept of a boiler envelope and with the input/output method and the heat loss method of determining boiler efficiency. After completing this course, participants should be able to explain what a boiler envelope is and identify energy flows into and out of the boiler envelope. They should also be able to describe how the input/output method and the heat loss method are used to determine boiler efficiency, and identify factors that must be considered when each method is used. Also covered are factors over which the boiler operator has some control.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

This course is designed to explain why unit heat rate is higher than normal during certain operating conditions and describe what can be done to prevent additional efficiency losses from occurring during these conditions. After completing this course, participants should be able to explain how careful planning and following plant procedures can reduce efficiency losses during unit startups and shutdowns. They should also be able to explain why parameters should be kept at their setpoints during reduced power operation, and how changes in weather conditions affect efficiency and heat rate.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The forms of energy commonly used to produce electrical energy are known as primary energy sources, which include coal, oil, natural gas, and nuclear energy. These sources are refined, burned, or processed in order to create the electrical energy used to power homes and appliances. In this course, participants will learn to define electrical energy and power as well as list the different units used to measure electrical power.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

By the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to describe what heat rate is and how it can be determined, and explain how the operating efficiencies of units and components can be determined. They should also be able to describe how operations, maintenance, and engineering groups contribute to the efficient operation of a power plant.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

This course is designed to reinforce major concepts taught in the heat rate improvement series by having participants participate in the identification and analysis of problems that affect heat rate. After completing this course, participants should be able to identify some of the problems that commonly occur in power plants by using related parameters, and describe how heat rate and fuel consumption are affected by these problems. The final segment in the course summarizes key points from the courses in the heat rate improvement series.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

This course is designed to familiarize participants with some of the basic concepts associated with personal protection, tagging procedures, and pollution control. After completing this course, participants should be able to describe some of the basic protective equipment that operators commonly use and explain how a tagging system protects personnel who work on or around plant equipment. They should also be able to describe methods of controlling air pollution, thermal pollution, water pollution, and noise pollution.

Course Duration: 2 Hour(s)

This course is designed to familiarize participants with the basic layout of a typical condensate and feedwater system and the basic operation of the system’s individual components. After completing this course, participants should be able to identify the components in a condensate and feedwater system and describe the basic operation of each component. They should also be able to explain how the system normally operates, describe operator responsibilities associated with normal operation, and identify some common operating problems.

Course Duration: 2 Hour(s)

After completing this course, participants should be able to explain the basic processes of a typical steam/water cycle and the way the efficiencies of those processes relate to the overall efficiency of the plant. Participants should also be able to explain the effects of changing or modifying the components of a steam/water cycle and to explain what Rankine efficiency is.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

This course will describe the basic layout of a typical condensate and feedwater system, the basic functions of the system components, and general operation of each component. It will also describe the normal operation of a typical condensate and feedwater system, identify operator responsibilities associated with normal operation, describe some operating problems that may occur, and explain how operating problems can be dealt with.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The condenser and the circulating water system play a vital role in plant operation and efficiency by completing the steam/water cycle. Part of an operator’s job involves monitoring and controlling the condenser and circulating water system. Therefore, it is important to have a good understanding of how these components work and what problems can affect them.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Power plant operators are responsible for maintaining power production and making sure the plant operates safely and efficiently. To see why this is important, it is helpful to understand how an individual plant fits into a power system providing electricity and distributing electricity to customers.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

This course covers topics related to power generation at power plant systems, including voltage induced in an alternating current (AC) generator, generator output current, generator excitation, hydrogen cooling systems, and stator cooling systems.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

This course explain how a typical turbine is designed to convert energy to work and how turbine efficiency is affected by problems with internal turbine components. After completing this course, participants should have an understanding of how internal components, particularly the turbine blades, affect turbine efficiency and heat rate. They should also be able to identify ways to recognize and correct efficiency problems associated with a turbine.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

This course is designed to familiarize participants with basic principles associated with turbine shaft bearing lubrication, turbine speed control, and turbine operation. After completing this course, participants should be able to identify and describe the functions of the components of a typical turbine lube oil system. They should also be able to describe the basic components and operation of a typical turbine speed control system. In addition, participants should be able to describe operator responsibilities associated with turbine startup, operation, and shutdown.

Course Duration: 2 Hour(s)

This course is designed to familiarize participants with basic principles associated with the construction and operation of steam turbines. After completing this course, participants should be able to state the functions of the main parts of a typical turbine and describe how steam causes impulse blades and reaction blades to turn a turbine’s wheels. They should also be able to describe the purpose and operation of a gland steam seal system, a gland steam seal exhaust system, a carbon seal, and a water seal.

Course Duration: 2 Hour(s)

This course examines some of the conditions that can cause operating parameters to change and some of the effects of those changes. After completing this course, participants should be able to explain why it is important to operate a turbine as close to its design parameter values as possible, and describe how changes in certain parameters affect efficiency, heat rate, and fuel consumption.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

This course is designed to familiarize participants with basic concepts associated with removing dissolved solids and gases from water, and with the safe use of chemicals in water treatment. After completing this course, participants should be able to describe ways in which dissolved solids and gases can cause problems in plant equipment. They should also be able to describe how these impurities can be removed by devices such as water softeners, demineralizers, activated carbon filters, aerators, and de-aerators. In addition, they should be able to explain how chemicals are used in water treatment and identify safety precautions associated with the use of chemicals.

Course Duration: 2 Hour(s)

The 34.5 KV Rubber Glove Work course is designed to introduce participants to procedures and equipment associated with performing rubber glove work on 34.5 KV lines. To obtain maximum benefit from this course, participants should have a good understanding of overhead distribution systems. At the conclusion of the course, participants should be able to describe electrical hazards associated with working on 34.5 KV distribution lines; and describe how to select, use, and care for the equipment typically required for working on 34.5 KV lines. Participants should also be able to explain how this equipment and some general safety procedures are used to perform 34.5 KV rubber glove work.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the basic principles of safe climbing on steel poles and towers. Participants are also introduced to some of the common techniques for getting into position to do a job on a steel pole or tower. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to list and describe common climbing-related hazards encountered by linemen. They should be able to identify basic climbing equipment and demonstrate how it is used when climbing steel poles and towers. They should also be able to demonstrate and explain basic techniques for positioning in order to perform specific tasks.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the use of basic climbing equipment, the basic techniques of free and belted climbing, and the care and maintenance of climbing equipment. Participants are also introduced to some basic climbing situations typically encountered by new climbers on a job. At the conclusion of this course, participants should have a basic understanding of the equipment used for climbing wooden poles, how to determine the proper fit of equipment, how equipment is cared for and maintained, and how equipment is tested and inspected. Participants should also understand the basic techniques of free and belted climbing and how to maneuver around a pole.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Overhead Troubleshooting, Part 1 is designed to introduce participants to some basic troubleshooting steps that can be applied to any type of overhead electrical system problem and to demonstrate how those steps can be applied to several different troubleshooting situations. Although Overhead Troubleshooting. Course, Part 1 is an introductory course; it is recommended that participants have a general understanding of overhead system components and operation. Participants without this prior training may require additional explanation or instruction. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to identify some basic troubleshooting steps that can be applied to any type of overhead system problem; identify other considerations that should be kept in mind during any kind of troubleshooting activity; and describe how some basic troubleshooting steps can be applied to several different troubleshooting situations.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Overhead Troubleshooting, Part 2 is designed to familiarize participants with some of the basic principles associated with troubleshooting overhead electrical systems during emergency conditions. Particular attention is paid to the differences between troubleshooting during emergency conditions and troubleshooting during normal conditions, and to the manner in which communications are handled. T o gain maximum advantage from this course, participants should have a basic understanding of the components and operation of an overhead electrical system, and they should have completed the Overhead Troubleshooting, Part 1 course. Participants without this prior training may require additional explanation or instruction. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to identify basic differences between troubleshooting under emergency conditions and troubleshooting under normal conditions, and describe basic preparations and safety precautions associated with troubleshooting under emergency conditions. They should also be able to explain why a communications center is needed during emergency conditions and how communications to and from the communications center are handled. The participants should also be able to describe how repairs to problems encountered during troubleshooting are prioritized during emergency situations.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach several approaches to framing and guying utility poles. Several types of construction that are in common use are presented. Several approaches to framing poles are demonstrated: single crossarm, multiple crossarm, armless, and vertical construction. Techniques for positioning and installing guy wires are also explained. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to describe several types of construction. They should be able to install crossarms and insulators on utility poles. They should also be able to explain the considerations involved in selecting and positioning guys and anchors and to demonstrate how to install a guy wire.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The Pole Top Equipment and Replacement course is designed to familiarize participants with the various types of pole top equipment and switches used in overhead distribution systems. Pole top equipment operation and function are discussed along with general procedures for equipment replacement and maintenance. To obtain maximum advantage from this course, participants should be familiar with the Transmission and Distribution (T&D) Systems and Theory courses and the T&D Maintenance Basics courses or have equivalent background. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to describe how pole top cutouts, reclosers, sectionalizers, and gang-operated switches are used to provide coordinated protection for a distribution system. They should also be able to identify problems that occur in pole top equipment, and they should be able to describe general procedures for replacing fused cutouts, reclosers, and gang-operated switches.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach how overhead capacitors and voltage regulators work, how to detect problems in their operation, and how to safely replace them if necessary. To accomplish this, the course presents the basic theory and operating characteristics of overhead capacitors and voltage regulators and demonstrates how they can be safely replaced. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to describe the function and operation of overhead capacitors, how to detect operating problems, and how to replace an overhead capacitor safely. They should also be able to describe the function and operation of overhead voltage regulators, how to detect voltage regulator problems, and how to safely replace an overhead voltage regulator.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the basic procedures used to safely remove and install pole top transformers. Although specific types of transformers are used as examples, emphasis is placed on general procedures that apply to the majority of pole top transformers. At the conclusion of this course, participants should understand the basic procedures for replacing pole top transformers safely and efficiently. Their understanding should include how to use a boom or blocks and a truck-mounted winch to install or remove a transformer and the basic techniques used to connect and disconnect pole top transformers. They should also be familiar with some methods commonly used to replace a transformer without interrupting customer service, and they should know how to use the appropriate safety equipment for transformer replacement procedures.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the common types of overhead transformers and how they are connected. Both single-phase and three-phase connections are covered, but the emphasis is on three-phase connections. The course presents connection theory and demonstrates how connections are made. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to describe and demonstrate how to make single-phase transformer connections. They should be able to describe and demonstrate how to make three-phase connections in the wye-wye and delta-delta configurations. They should also be able to verify that a replacement transformer is the right one.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach how common types of overhead transformers can be connected together. Both single-phase and three-phase transformers are covered, but the emphasis is on three-phase connections of three single-phase transformers. The course presents connection theory using phasor diagrams and demonstrates how each of the connections is made. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to describe and demonstrate how to make three-phase connections in all of the following configurations: delta-wye, wye-delta, alternative delta-delta, and alternative wye-delta. Participants should also be able to show these connections using phasor diagrams. They should be able to demonstrate how to connect transformers to form an open bank in the configurations of delta-delta and wye-delta.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach techniques for troubleshooting single-phase transformers and three-phase transformer banks. The course demonstrates how to identify a faulted transformer. It also demonstrates how to isolate transformers and how to test for proper no-load voltage. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to identify a faulted single-phase transformer, isolate it, and test it for proper no-load voltage. They should also be able to identify a faulted transformer in a three-phase transformer bank, isolate the faulted transformer, and test it for proper no-load voltage.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the basic layout of overhead distribution systems, to explain how to identify circuits and equipment in the field, and to introduce delta- and wye-connected distribution systems. The basic theory underlying the operation of delta and wye systems is presented, and the differences between them are discussed. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to describe the basic layout of an overhead distribution system and identify circuits and equipment in the field. They should understand the basic characteristics of delta and wye systems and should be able to identify delta and wye circuits in the field. They should also understand the importance of identifying whether a system is connected delta or wye before any work is performed.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to describe and demonstrate an approach to installing a transmission line. This work is not a routine part of a lineman’s job in many locations, but an understanding of the basic approach is useful to individuals who are responsible for maintaining lines. At the conclusion of this course, participants should understand how to plan and set up an installation job. They should know the purpose of guard structures and how to set them up. They should also know how to pull conductors into place to proper sag and how to clip them permanently to the insulators.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the theory and practice involved in using the bare hand method to perform live transmission line repair. Safety is emphasized throughout the course. The basic theory of bare hand work is presented as well as the equipment used to perform this work. Installation of a repair sleeve is used as an example to illustrate how the principles of bare hand work are applied. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to explain what bare hand repair work is, why it works, and how it is done. They should also be able to explain how to install a repair sleeve using the bare hand method.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The Advanced Rigging course is designed to familiarize participants with the various types of weights and tensions associated with rigging in line work. The procedures and concepts presented assume a familiarity with basic electrical theory and transmission and distribution systems. Participants without this prior training may require additional explanation or instruction. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to explain the difference between static force loads and dynamic force loads, and how to determine the weight of each type of load. Participants should also be able to explain line tension, bisect tension, and guy tension, and they should be able to determine each type of tension for a given job. In addition, participants should be able to define the term “safety factor” in terms of rigging, and they should be able to use a safety factor to plan safe rigging.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the basic principles of rigging for high-voltage work and to demonstrate how these principles apply in three typical rigging jobs. Particular emphasis is placed on basic safety issues and on properly planning a rigging job. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to explain how to approach rigging near energized lines. They should understand how to plan a job and how the amount of strain involved affects the size and type of equipment selected. They should also be able to describe how to rig to remove strain from a transmission insulator.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the fundamentals of overhead rigging. The topics covered include three basic elements of safe rigging, rope, knots and knot tying, use of a handline, and use of block and tackle. The course also introduces approaches to performing some basic rigging tasks. At the conclusion of this course, participants should have a basic understanding of how to plan a rigging job, how to inspect the equipment used on a job, how to tie basic knots commonly used in rigging, how to hang and use a handline, and how to hang and use a block and tackle. Participants should also be able to calculate the mechanical advantage of a block and tackle and identify the basic parts of a rope.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Series and Street Lighting is designed to familiarize participants with electrical street lighting systems that use series alternating current (AC) circuits. The components and operation of series street lighting circuits are discussed, as well as how to identify some common street lighting circuit faults. To obtain maximum advantage from this course, participants should have an understanding of basic electrical theory and the components and operation of distribution systems. They should also be familiar with circuit and wiring diagrams. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to describe the design and operation of series street lighting circuits and the components that make up a series street lighting system. They should also be able to describe basic troubleshooting procedures for determining the cause of a fault in a series street lighting circuit.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach how to set a pole and two methods of manual replacement of an existing pole. The most common method of setting poles using power equipment is demonstrated first. Because power equipment may not always be available or may not be able to reach the job site, two manual methods of replacing poles are demonstrated. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to describe and demonstrate how to set a pole using a derrick. They should be able to describe and demonstrate how to set a pole in a hole adjacent to an existing pole by rigging off of the existing pole. They should also be able to describe and demonstrate how to replace a pole with a new pole in the same hole.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach transmission and distribution (T&D) personnel to recognize the basic elements in a distribution system and to understand, in general, how each element works. The course also introduces basic protective devices and the process of sectionalizing. At the conclusion of this course, participants should know how to recognize transformers, voltage regulators, and capacitors. They should also have a basic understanding of how these devices work. Participants should also be able to identify basic protective devices used on distribution systems to protect the system and its components from damage and its customers from outages. And participants should have a basic understanding of how distribution systems are laid out.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the principles involved in working on energized lines using insulated gloves. These principles are illustrated by a demonstration of replacing dead-end crossarms with the lines energized. Method, communication, concentration, and safety are emphasized throughout the course. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to demonstrate how to work safely on energized lines using insulated gloves. They should be able to demonstrate how to prepare for a job that will be done using gloves, perform the work safely, and return the job site to a normal condition. They should also understand the steps required to perform the specific job demonstrated.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the principles involved in working on energized lines using hot sticks. The principles are illustrated by a demonstration of replacement of dead-end crossarms with the lines energized. The same job is used as with gloves in order to show more clearly how using hot sticks differs from using gloves. Method, communication, concentration, and safety are emphasized throughout the course. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to demonstrate how to work safely on energized lines using hot sticks. They should be able to demonstrate how to prepare for a job that will be done using hot sticks, perform the work safely, and return the job site to a normal condition. They should also understand the steps required to perform the specific job demonstrated.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the major parts of a bucket truck, safety features commonly found on bucket trucks, and some of the pre-use inspections that can be made on a bucket truck. It is assumed that participants has no previous experience in operating bucket trucks. After completing the course, participants should practice operating the controls of a bucket truck under the supervision of experienced personnel. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be familiar with the major parts of bucket trucks. They should also be familiar with the basic types of bucket trucks, the boom controls, some of the common safety features and overrides, and some of the common pre-use inspections that can be performed on a bucket truck.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach some basic techniques that can be used to operate a bucket truck safely and efficiently. Techniques for setting up and operating a bucket truck at three typical job sites are described. It is assumed that participants is already familiar with the basic parts of a bucket truck and understands how to use the bucket controls to operate the booms. After completing the course, participants should practice setting up and operating a bucket truck at a job site under the supervision of experienced personnel. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to set up and operate a bucket truck at a job site.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to familiarize participants with three types of hydraulic digging equipment: digger derricks, backhoes, and trenchers. The major working parts and controls and safe operating practices for each are described. Each piece of equipment is shown safely performing a job typical of those for which it is designed. After completing this course, participants should be able to locate and identify the major working parts and controls of digger derricks, backhoes, and trenchers. They should also be able to summarize the uses for which each machine has been designed and describe each machine’s safe operation in the field.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the operation of material handling bucket trucks. The course focuses on the material handling features of the truck that distinguish it from other types of bucket trucks. It covers truck positioning, lift capacity, and some of the conductor lifting attachments that can be used to make a material handling bucket truck even more useful in the field. To gain maximum advantage from this course, participants should already be familiar with basic bucket trucks. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to identify the material handling features of a material handling bucket truck, including the winch, the jib, and conductor lifting attachments. They should also be able to explain lift capacity and demonstrate how to use a material handling bucket truck to lift equipment or conductors.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach care, inspection, and testing of tools and equipment commonly used in transmission and distribution maintenance work. Basic information is also provided on two particular types of tests: dielectric tests and acoustic emission tests. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to define the objectives of dielectric and acoustic emission tests and to explain, in general terms, how these tests are performed. Participants should be able to describe and demonstrate how to inspect protective equipment such as rubber gloves, sleeves, blankets, line hose, hoods, mechanical jumpers, bucket trucks, and hot sticks. They should also understand how to care for this equipment.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the basic operating principles and general operating procedures for air compressors and the following pneumatic tools: jackhammers, tamps, pumps, circular air saws, and duct blowing rigs. The course shows how to use the tools efficiently for several construction and maintenance jobs. Emphasis is placed on the important safety precautions associated with using these tools. At the conclusion of this course, participants should have a basic understanding of how to operate an air compressor. They should also know how to use pneumatic tools safely and efficiently on a job.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the basic principles of operation of three commonly used types of hydraulic hand tools: breakers, pole pullers, and tamps. The course also presents some of the basic principles of hydraulics and shows how these principles apply to the operation of a hydraulic power system. At the conclusion of this course, participants should have a basic understanding of how hydraulic breakers, pole pullers, and tamps operate. They should be able to identify the basic external and internal parts of the tools and explain their functions. They should also know the safety precautions that are applicable to using hydraulic hand tools on a job.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the basic principles of operation of three types of hydraulic hand tools: chain saws, impact wrenches, and presses. In addition to showing how these tools work, the course explains how to use them to perform some of the tasks commonly assigned to transmission and distribution linemen. At the conclusion of this course, participants should have a basic understanding of how hydraulic chain saws, impact wrenches, and presses operate. They should also know how to use and maintain each type of tool safely and efficiently.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

This course is designed to familiarize participants with the issues and problems associated with maintaining power quality. T o obtain maximum benefit from this course, participants should have a general understanding of the basic concepts of electric power generation, transmission, and distribution. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to explain the basic concepts of power quality, identify sources and causes of power quality problems, and describe the effects of power quality problems on residential and commercial customers. They should also be able to identify equipment and methods for preventing and monitoring power quality problems.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The Distribution Line Safety course is designed primarily to introduce participants to principles and techniques of equipotential grounding. Although the course is intended as an introduction to equipotential grounding, the procedures and concepts presented assume a familiarity with basic electrical theory, distribution systems, grounding theory and application, and basic distribution line work methods and procedures. Participants without this prior training may require additional explanation or instruction. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to explain the purpose of grounding an overhead line during maintenance work and describe ways in which an isolated or de-energized line can become energized. Participants should also be able to define the term “zone of equipotential” and explain how equipotential grounding operates to safeguard linemen in the event of a ground fault condition. Finally, participants should be able to describe or demonstrate how grounding equipment can be used to set up a zone of equipotential.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

This course covers aspects of bucket truck safety such as how to avoid accidents, how to lower the boom in an emergency, and how to carry out a bucket truck rescue. It is assumed that participants are already familiar with the basic parts and operation of a bucket truck. Participants should be familiar with all applicable safety procedures before they operate a bucket truck. The instructor should make sure that all participants wear hard hats, safety glasses, and gloves. After completing this course, participants should be able to explain how to perform a preuse inspection o f a bucket truck, describe safety considerations associated with using a bucket truck at a job site, and explain how personnel can be protected from bucket truck shock hazards. They should also be able to describe common methods of bucket truck escape, emergency boom lowering, and bucket truck rescue.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach basic safety principles and practices applicable to work on overhead lines. The principles stressed are proper attitude, preplanning, care and inspection of equipment, and creation of a safe work area. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to recognize the electrical and structural hazards associated with overhead line maintenance and know what to do to avoid them. They should know how to identify, care for, inspect, and use the protective equipment necessary for working near energized lines and equipment. They should also know the correct procedures for working aloft, and they should understand how to perform a fast and safe pole top rescue.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the basic safety principles and practices applicable to substation and switchyard maintenance work. The course describes electrical, chemical, and personal hazards that may be encountered in substations and switchyards. A general procedure for responding to imminent dangers and accidents is also presented. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to identify hazards in substations and switchyards and explain why safety practices are important. They should be able to recognize hazards and unsafe practices on the job, and they should have a general understanding of how to respond to imminent dangers and accidents.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the basic safety considerations involved in performing maintenance work on transmission and distribution (T&D) systems. Specific electrical shock hazards and how to avoid them are discussed. The course describes hazards that may be encountered in overhead, underground, and substation and switchyard maintenance work. At the conclusion of this course, participants should have a basic understanding of the types of hazards that may be encountered in T&D maintenance work.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to introduce transmission and distribution (T&D) personnel to some of the factors that influence transmission efficiency and power loss. The course explains how T&D systems are designed to minimize power loss and how resistance, capacitive reactance, and inductive reactance can be manipulated to help maintain minimum levels of power loss. At the conclusion of this course, participants should know what power loss is and how power loss is affected by impedance. They should understand that impedance comes from resistance, capacitive reactance, and inductive reactance.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach participants basic alternating current (AC) power theory. The course focuses on the relationships between various types of power and on the functions of transformers, voltage regulators, and capacitors in a distribution system. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to define apparent power, true power, reactive power, and power factor and explain the meaning of each term in the context of three-phase AC distribution systems. They should also be able to describe how delta and wye configurations affect voltage and current and how voltage regulators and capacitors are used to affect the power factor in a three-phase distribution system.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

This course will describe what the smart grid is and why it was developed. It will also describe advanced sensing and measurement techniques and control strategies that are used within smart grid systems. Finally, the course will provide an overview of advanced technologies developed for smart grid systems.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the basic principles of operation and maintenance of a multiple street lighting system. The course presents the fundamental theory of operation and identifies the equipment typically found in a multiple street lighting system. Approaches to detecting and correcting common problems are also shown. At the conclusion of this course, participants should have a basic understanding of how multiple street lighting systems work, what equipment they use, and how they are controlled. Participants should be able to detect and correct common problems in a multiple street lighting system.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Series and Street Lighting is designed to familiarize participants with electrical street lighting systems that use series alternating current (AC) circuits. The components and operation of series street lighting circuits are discussed, as well as how to identify some common street lighting circuit faults. To obtain maximum advantage from this course, participants should have an understanding of basic electrical theory and the components and operation of distribution systems. They should also be familiar with circuit and wiring diagrams. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to describe the design and operation of series street lighting circuits and the components that make up a series street lighting system. They should also be able to describe basic troubleshooting procedures for determining the cause of a fault in a series street lighting circuit.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach participants the kinds of information that can be obtained by reading electrical system diagrams and to illustrate how this information can be used to assist linemen who work on electrical systems. Practical examples of how to get information are given throughout the course. At the conclusion of this course, participants should know what kind of information is typically found on construction diagrams, on schematic diagrams, and in specification manuals. They should know how to use all of these references to determine the information necessary to do a job.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Cable Fault Locating (Radar), Part 1 is designed to familiarize participants with how a radar cable fault locator works, how to interpret the information provided by a radar cable fault locator, and how a radar cable fault locator can be used to test a section of underground residential distribution (URD) cable. To gain maximum advantage from this course, participants should have a basic understanding of URD systems and troubleshooting procedures used for URD cable faults. Participants without this prior training may require additional explanation or instruction. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to explain how a radar cable fault locator works and what the information provided by the fault locator means. They should also be able to describe how to use a radar cable fault locator to test a section of URD cable.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

Cable Fault Locating (Radar), Part 2 is designed to familiarize participants with equipment and basic procedures for prelocating and pinpointing faults in underground cables using radar cable fault locators. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to explain the basic concepts of prelocating a cable fault, and should be able to describe how to prelocate a cable fault using the arc reflection method. They should also be able to describe how to pinpoint the location of a cable fault after it has been prelocated.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the basic principles of using capacitive discharge equipment and voltage gradient equipment to locate faults in direct-buried cable. Examples are used to illustrate the considerations involved in locating faults. The use of capacitive discharge equipment to locate a fault in primary cable and the use of voltage gradient equipment to locate a fault in secondary cable are demonstrated. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to locate a fault in primary direct-buried cable using capacitive discharge equipment. They should also be able to locate a fault in secondary direct-buried cable using voltage gradient equipment.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the basic principles involved in using two types of specialized equipment to locate faults in underground cable. The course explains and demonstrates how tracer current equipment can be used to locate faults in duct-lay cable and how a high-voltage bridge can be used to determine the approximate location of a fault in pipe-type cable. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to locate a phase-to-ground fault in a duct-lay cable with tracer current equipment. They should be able to determine the approximate location of a fault in pipe-type cable with a high-voltage bridge.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the principles of underground cable splicing and to demonstrate how cable splices are made. The course explains how to approach splicing in both primary and secondary cable. Demonstrations of splicing both types of cable are presented. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to explain how cable splices are made. They should know how to make a splice in either primary or secondary cable. They should also understand how heat shrink and cold shrink splices are used.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the principles of splicing paper-insulated lead-covered (PILC) cables. The course explains how to prepare PILC cable for several typical splices made on primary PILC cables. Demonstrations of making several typical splices on PILC cables are presented. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to explain how several typical splices on PILC cables are made. They should know how to make a straight splice, a typical transitional splice, and one type of trifurcating transitional splice on a PILC cable.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the principles of high-voltage cable terminations and to demonstrate how such cable terminations are made. The course explains the problems associated with voltage stress and the function of stress cones. Demonstrations of how to make several different kinds of cable terminations are presented. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to explain what voltage stress is and how terminations are built to avoid voltage stress problems. They should understand how to make a high-voltage termination in a substation. They should also know how to make terminations at pedestals and how to install a pothead.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach the basic principles of operation of pad-mounted transformers and switchgear, the types of equipment that are in common use, and how they are connected. The course also presents the basic principles of pad-mounted transformer and switchgear inspection and troubleshooting and shows an example of how to detect a problem with one leg of a three-phase transformer. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to state how pad-mounted transformers and switchgear are used and to describe how they are connected. They should be able to recognize and identify commonly used types of pad-mounted transformers and switchgear. They should also be able to inspect pad-mounted transformers and switchgear, and they should be able to detect a problem with one leg of a three-phase transformer.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach how underground residential distribution (URD) systems are connected along with the basic components they contain. The course covers the basic principles of installation and routine maintenance. It also demonstrates basic switching operations. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to identify common types of URD systems. They should be able to list and identify common components of a URD system and describe typical routine maintenance tasks. They should also be able to describe switching in a loop system to isolate components without interrupting customer service.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to teach two methods of underground cable installation: direct burying and installation in conduit. The course demonstrates how to install and connect a direct-buried cable. A demonstration of how to install cable in underground conduit is also presented. At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to install and connect a direct-buried cable. They should also be able to install PVC conduit underground and pull cable into it.

Course Duration: 1 Hour(s)