ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION DESIGN

Module 1: Wiring Systems

Dr. Kumari Swati
Department of Electrical Engineering
National Institute of Technology Rourkela
India
 Course Syllabus
• Module 1: Wiring system
• Module 2: Wiring materials and accessories
• Module 3: Earthing systems
• Module 4: Lighting sub-circuits
• Module 5: Lighting schemes and calculations
• Module 6: Internal wiring estimation
• Module 7: Electrical installation of power circuits
• Module 8: Overhead transmission and
distribution line
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 Study materials recommended
• Book-Electrical Installation Designs by Bill Atkinson, Roger Lovegrove and
Gary Gundry
• Book- A course in electrical installation, estimation and costing by J.B
Gupta
• Research papers- Electrical Installation Design by Hasnizam Hanafi and
Rafi Azman
• Research papers- A Paper on the Challenges of Electrical Installation
Design for a Residential Building by Stephen Ukagu and Ikenna
Onyegbadue
• Research papers- Indoor Electrical Installation Design Layout Using IOT by
Mamunur Rashid, Nasir A. Algeelani, Samir A. Al-Gailani and Nohaidda
Binti Sariff

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 Module 1: Wiring systems
• Electrical Wiring System
– A network of wires connecting various accessories for distributing
electrical energy from the supplier meter board to electrical energy-
consuming devices, e.g. Lamps, fans, domestic appliances.
– Includes controlling and safety devices.

• Scope and Importance:

– Essential for the safe and efficient delivery of power to electrical
– appliances.
– Provides flexibility for future upgrades or modifications.
– Protects both the electrical system and users from potential hazards.

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• The standard domestic voltage supply in India is 220 𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑡𝑠 (𝑉), 1 𝜑, 50𝐻𝑧
• P => Phase wire or Live wire at 220V, N=> Neutral wire at 0V
• Supply cut-out / Service fuse =>The supplier service cable feeding an
installation terminates The Point of Commencement of Supply refers to the exact point where the electrical supply
from the utility company is delivered to the consumer. This is also known as the Consumer’s
Terminals.
• Point of commencement of supply/ consumer’s terminals => The point at
which consumer’s wiring is connected into the cut-out
• From consumer terminals onwards the supply cables are under the control
of the consumers and laid out as per their selection
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• Energy Meter => Installed by city’s Electricity department
– Both Live and Neutral wires enter Energy Meter
– Records the amount of Electrical Energy consumed, Unit => kWh
• DPIC Switch => Double pole Iron Clad Switch
– Used to disconnect supply
– Breaks connection between both Live and Neutral wires
simultaneously from main supply
Fig. DPIC Switch
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• From Main Distribution board, wires go to different parts of the house
• Indian Standards (IS Codes) limit the number of loads connected and power
drawn from a single circuit to avoid Overloading
– Requirement of Sub-Main Distribution Board and Sub-circuits
• Main Distribution Board has many MCBs (Miniature Circuit Breakers)
– MCBs are safety devices like fuses
– Each MCB is for a separate circuit in the house
– MCB Switch off => Power cut in the corresponding circuit, MCB Switch on => Power restored
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• Sub-Main Distribution Board
– Each Sub-Main Distribution Board has a separate Fuse or MCB
– In case of a fault in one circuit, the other one remain unaffected.
– The distribution circuits are connected in parallel
– Load is connected between Live wire and Neutral wire through Switch,
Switch is connected in the live wire
– All loads are connected in parallel
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• Advantage of Parallel Connection:
• E.g Bulbs
– All bulbs get full voltage => can glow brightly at full voltage
– If one bulb gets fused, the other will continue to glow
– If bulbs are connected in series, voltage gets divided and if one bulb gets
fused – the other will also not work
– Thays why, everything in house from Lights to fans to refrigerators etc. => all
are connected in parallel.
• Earth Wire => Connected to Earth connection in the house
– Earth connection / Local Earthing is done near the Electricity meter of the house

• Goal of Local Earthing => To provide a

safety mechanism
– In case of fault, excessive current flows
through the earth wire
– If local earthing is not available => Excessive
current may heat the wire => Fire Hazard
• To avoid risk of Electric Shock, metal body
of an appliance is earthed.
– Earthing is done by connecting metal body of
appliance to the Earth wire
Fig. Colour coding of wires 9
 Recommended Practice as per Indian
Standards (IS Codes)
• Two types of Circuits in house
– Lighting Circuit – allows a maximum of 5A current – for light loads (Bulbs, fans, TV, Computer etc.,
and 5A sockets
– Power Circuit – allows a maximum of 15A current – used for Iron, Heater, refrigerator, Geyser, 15A
sockets etc.
• Maximum Number of Points in a Single Circuit
– The maximum number of light points, fan points, and 5A socket outlets that can be connected in one
circuit is 10 points
– To ensure safe operation without overloading the circuit
• Maximum Load for One Circuit
– The total load connected to a single circuit must not exceed 800 W
– This limit helps prevent overheating and electrical hazards
• For Higher Loads or More Points
– If the load exceeds 800 watts or there are more than 10 points, additional circuits must be provided
– Each additional circuit should follow the same load and point restrictions to maintain safety and
compliance with standards
• Practical Implications
– For larger installations, the electrical load is divided into multiple circuits to ensure balanced
distribution and avoid overloading
– Separate circuits are recommended for heavy appliances (e.g., air conditioners, refrigerators) that
consume high power => Power Circuit 10
 Systems of distribution of electrical
energy
• Distribution Board System
• Tree system

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 Distribution Board System
• A distribution board, also known as a fuse
board, groups fuses for various circuits for
efficient electrical distribution in a building.
• Most commonly adopted
• Circuit Connections:
– Designed to connect two or more circuits.
– Each circuit typically includes 10 or fewer
lamps.
• Bus Bars:
– Two copper strips, called bus bars, are fixed in
the distribution board.
– Enclosed in a hardwood or metal case for safety
and durability.
– Connected to the supply mains via a Double
Pole Iron Clad (DPIC) switch, enabling complete
disconnection of the installation.
• Fuse Integration:
– Each circuit is connected through an individual
fuse inserted in the positive or phase pole.
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Circuit Allocation:
• Lamps in each circuit may be distributed across different rooms or floors,
especially in smaller buildings.
• Circuits are planned for convenience and cost-efficiency, minimizing connection
routes and overall expenses.
Challenges in Large Buildings:
• Using only one distribution board can result in:
– Excessive cable lengths.
– Significant voltage drops at distant points.
• This makes a single distribution board impractical in large installations.
Use of Sub-Distribution Boards:
• In large buildings, sub-distribution boards are employed to:
– Reduce cable costs.
– Maintain proper voltage levels at distant points (e.g., lamps, fans, appliances).
• The main distribution board controls circuits to each sub-distribution board.
• Sub-distribution boards are strategically installed closer to the load for efficiency.
• Circuit Design: The number of circuits and sub-circuits is determined based on:
– The number of wiring points.
– The connected load requirements of the supply system.
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 Tree system
Definition:
• A distribution system where
smaller branches are taken from a
main branch, resembling a tree
structure.
• Each branch has a fuse installed
for protection.

Historical Use:
• Commonly employed in the early
days of electrical distribution.
• Rarely used today due to
significant drawbacks.
Advantage :
• Simple design and straightforward
implementation
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Drawbacks of the Tree System
1. Voltage Drop:
– Unequal voltage distribution across lamps.
– Lamps in the last branch experience the least voltage due to voltage
drops in the lead branches.
2. Multiple Joints:
– Numerous joints in every circuit, increasing potential fault points.
3. Scattered Fuses:
– Fuses are not centralized, complicating maintenance.
4. Fault Detection Issues:
– Locating faults involves checking all joints, including concealed ones
(e.g., under floors or roofs).
– Testing often requires opening multiple joints, causing damage to:
i. Installation infrastructure.
ii. Conductors.
iii. Building structure.

• Nowadays, it is no more adopted.

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 Methods of Wiring

• Joint box system (or T system)

• Loop in system

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 Joint Box System or T System
Definition:
• In this system, lamp connections are made
through joints housed in joint boxes using
suitable connectors or joint cutouts.

Advantages:
• Wire Savings: Reduces the total quantity of
wire or cable required.
• Cost-Effective: Suitable for temporary
installations due to its lower overall cost.

Disadvantages:
Current Use:
• Extra Cost of Joint Boxes: Offsets the
savings from reduced wire usage. • Limited Applications: Primarily
• Weakness in 'T' Connections: used for temporary setups due to
– Multiple ‘T’ connections in the wiring can low cost and reduced reliability
create weak points if not properly made.
– May lead to faults and reduced reliability.
compared to modern systems.

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The live (phase) and neutral wires are taken to the first point (e.g., lamp holder).
From the same terminals, wires are taken to the next point, forming a continuous loop from one fixture to another.
This looping continues until the last fixture is connected

Loop-in System
• Definition:
– Universally used method for
connecting lamps and appliances in
parallel circuits.
– Feed conductors are looped in at
terminals, carried forward to the next
point, and so on until the last point is
reached.

• Wiring Details:
– Phase or Line Conductors: Loop
through the switchboard or switch
box.
– Neutral Conductors: Loop through the • Key Feature:
switchboard, light, or fan terminal. – No joints are made in the run of
– Important Rule: Line or phase wires or cables, ensuring better
conductors must not be looped from reliability.
lights or fans.
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 Systems of Wiring
• The types of internal wiring usually employed in India are:
1. Cleat wiring
2. Wooden casing and capping wiring
3. CTS or TRS or PVC sheathed wiring
4. Lead sheathed or metal sheathed wiring
5. Conduit wiring
i. Surface or Open type
ii. Underground type

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 Cleat wiring system
Definition:
• A system of internal wiring using
where cables are held by porcelain
cleats approximately 6 mm above
walls or ceilings.
– Vulcanized Indian Rubber (VIR) or
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) cables are
used.
Structure of Cleats:
• Cleats consist of two parts:
– Base: Grooved to hold the cable.
– Cap: Covers the cable and is screwed
onto the base.
• Cleats are mounted on wooden plugs
cemented into the wall or ceiling.
Types of Cleats:
• One Groove, Two Grooves, Three
Grooves: to hold 1,2 and 3 cables
respectively.

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Advantages:
• Cost-Effective: Cheapest wiring system.
• Easy Installation & Dismantling: Quick and simple.
• Material Reuse: Materials can be recovered after dismantling.
• Adaptable: Allows easy inspection, alterations, and additions.
• Minimal Skilled Labor: Requires limited expertise.

Disadvantages:
• Aesthetic Concerns: Not visually appealing.
• Vulnerability:
– Wires are exposed to mechanical damage.
– VIR insulation is prone to damage from oil and smoke.
• Moisture Issues:
– Insulation absorbs dampness, leading to leakage current and reduced insulation resistance.
– Unsuitable for damp environments unless special precautions are taken.

Field of Application:
• Temporary Installations: Suitable for dry places.
• Cost-Driven Use: Ideal where appearance is not a priority.
• Not for Domestic Use: Unsuitable for residential premises.
Fig: Plastic cleats

 Porcelain cleats are now replaced by versatile plastic cleats and cable ties in various sizes and
shapes.

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Wooden Casing-Capping wiring system
Description:
• Utilizes VIR or PVC insulated cables carried
through the wooden casing enclosures.
• Casing has V-shaped grooves for separating
opposite polarities (usually two to hold the
cables of opposite polarity in different Fig. Wooden casing and capping for electrical cables
grooves).
• Capping, a rectangular wooden strip, seals the
casing.
• Made of seasoned teak wood varnished with
shellac for protection against white ants.
• Cables of the same polarity run in the same
groove.
• In no case the cables of opposite polarity
Fig. Wooden Casing-Capping wiring system
should be run in the same groove.

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Advantages: Disadvantages:
• Cost-effective compared to lead • Not damp-proof; unsuitable for moist
sheathed and conduit wiring. areas.
• Easy to install, rewire, and inspect. • Risk of fire hazard limits its
• Good insulation due to conductor application.
spacing. • Requires skilled labor, increasing
• Ideal for tropical regions with labor costs.
condensation issues. • Visible on surfaces; cannot be
• Easy to inspect by opening the concealed.
capping • Expensive due to the need for knot
free wood.

Fields of application:
This type of wiring is suitable for low voltage domestic installations in dry places and
where there is no risk of fire hazard.

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Modern Modifications
• Transition to PVC Casing-Capping:
– Due to rising teak wood costs, PVC casing-capping has replaced wooden systems.
– Made of PVC plastic, available in 5’ lengths, also called raceways.
• Applications:
– Extending circuits and adding new fixtures (e.g., sockets or ceiling lights).
– Permanent but easy to install, making it a practical choice for surface-mounted wiring.

Fig. PVC Casing capping Fig. PVC Casing capping accessories 24

 Batten Wiring (CTS or TRS)
CTS (Cab Tyre Sheathed) Wire:

• Overview: Also called Tough Rubber Sheathed (TRS) wire.

– Uses single-core, double-core, or round

oval cables (single-core preferred).
– TRS cables are waterproof, chemical-
proof, steam-proof, but vulnerable to
lubricating oil.
– Mounted on seasoned, straight,
varnished teak wood battens
(minimum thickness: 10 mm).
• Installation:
– Cables secured using tinned brass
link clips fixed with brass pins.
• Spacing: 10 cm (horizontal runs), 15
cm (vertical runs).
– Painted with two coats of non-
cracking oil-less paint (as per IS 732).
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Advantages: Disadvantages:
• Easy and quick installation, saving • Requires skilled workmanship.
labor costs. • Not suitable for outdoor use (open to
• Long-lasting with certain fireproof sun or rain) unless prevention steps
properties. are taken to preserved cable
• Resistant to chemicals (acids and insulation.
alkalies).
• Cost-effective compared to other
wiring types (except cleat wiring).
• Neat appearance if installed carefully.

Applications:
• Ideal for low voltage installations, lighting in domestic, commercial, or industrial
buildings.
• Unsuitable for damp places
• Unsuitable for workshops with high mechanical risks.
• Suitable in situations where acids and alkalies are likely to be present.
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Lead Sheathed/Metal Sheathed Wiring
type of wiring system in which conductors are insulated with VIR (Vulcanized Indian Rubber) and then covered with

Overview: a sheath made of lead-aluminum alloy.

The cables are clipped to walls or ceilings using saddles or straps.

• Uses insulated wires (TRS or PVC) with a lead-aluminium alloy sheath (95% lead).
• Metal sheath protects cables from mechanical injury, dampness, and atmospheric
corrosion.
• The whole lead covering is made electrically continuous and is connected to earth
at the point of entry to protect against leakage current and to provide safety
against sheath becoming alive.
• Cables mounted on well-seasoned and perfectly straight teak wood batten
(minimum thickness: 10 mm) with link clips.
• Wiring with twin core cable makes the neatest job.

Fig. Lead Sheathed cable

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Advantages: Disadvantages:
• Better protection against mechanical • costlier than batten wiring
injury than batten wiring • Unsuitable for areas with chemical
• Neat and aesthetically pleasing; can corrosion
be painted to match surroundings • Damaged insulation makes the
• Longer lifespan with proper earthing sheath live and gives shock.
• Suitable for damp situations and – The sheath must be properly earthed, with
an earth wire running alongside it and all
areas exposed to sun and rain (no sections securely joined to ensure
exposed joints) complete grounding.
• Skilled labor and supervision required

Field of Application:
• Ideal for low voltage (up to 250V) installations.
• Suitable for damp areas and outdoor locations (with proper sealing), provided no
joints of any kind is exposed.
• Not recommended for environments with acids or alkalies.
• Most common application of this system is for laying submains from pole to the
electric meter laid by the supplier.

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 Conduit wiring system
• In this system of wiring steel tubes known as conduits are installed on the surface
of wall by means of pipe hooks or buried under plaster and
• VIR or PVC cables are drawn afterwards by means of GI wire.
• Conduit should be electrically and mechanically continuous and connected to
earth at some suitable point.
Surface Conduit Wiring
– If conduits installed on roof or wall, It is known as surface conduit wiring. in this wiring method, they
make holes on the surface of wall on equal distances and conduit is installed then with the help of
wall plugs.
Concealed Conduit wiring
– If the conduit is hidden inside the wall slots with the help of plastering, it is called concealed conduit
wiring.
PVC Conduits are increasingly being employed in place of steel conduits
• Cost-effective and saves up to 25% labor • Can be buried in plaster without adverse
time compared to steel. effects.
• Resistant to acid, alkalis, oil, and moisture. • Drawback: Sensitive to temperature
variations, causing movement.
• Not suitable for fire-prone areas.
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Advantages Disadvantages
• Protects against mechanical damage • Very costly system of wiring.
and fire due to short circuit. • Complex installation requiring skilled
• Waterproof and long-lasting if labor and time
properly installed. • Moisture condensation can damage
• Shockproof with proper earthing. insulation unless the system outlets
are properly drained and ventilated.

Field of Applications:
As this system of wiring provides protection against fire, mechanical damage and
dampness, so this is the only approved system of wiring for:
• Ideal for fire-prone areas (oil mills, varnish factories).
• Dusty locations (textile mills, flour mills).
• Damp environments
• In workshops for lighting and motor wiring
• Residential/public buildings emphasizing aesthetics.

Note:
• PVC conduit is cheaper and faster to install but lacks fire protection.
• Insurance requirements stipulate metallic conduit wiring ; and PVC wiring only for offices. 31
 Choice of wiring system
1. Safety
– A primary factor to protect users from current leakage or shock.
– Poor workmanship can result in dangerous outcomes.
– For high-risk areas (e.g., factories with fumes or fire hazards), use appropriate
wiring such as conduit wiring instead of cleat or casing-capping.
2. Durability
– Wiring must be suitable for the building's nature and longevity.
– For temporary buildings, cleat wiring may suffice, but permanent structures
require durable options like conduit or PVC wiring.
– Should withstand weather conditions and carry maximum current without
overheating.
3. Appearance
– Wiring should complement the aesthetics of the building.
– Concealed conduit wiring offers a neat appearance for modern homes but is
costly.
– PVC wiring is affordable, durable, and visually appealing, making it a popular
choice. 32
3. Mechanical Protection
– Wiring should be safeguarded against mechanical damage during its use to ensure
longevity.
4. Permanency
– Should resist deterioration from weather, fumes, and dampness for long-lasting
reliability.
5. Accessibility
– The wiring system must allow easy extensions, renewals, or alterations as required.
6. Initial Cost
– The chosen system should balance safety and cost-effectiveness.
– While concealed wiring is premium, options like PVC offer a more economical
alternative.
7. Maintenance Cost
– Opt for a wiring system with minimal maintenance requirements to reduce ongoing
costs.
8. Other Factors
– Consider load, voltage, and building type while making the decision.
9. Fire Hazards & Insurance Standards
– For factories or high-risk environments, adhere to fire safety guidelines and
insurance regulations

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 Comparison
S. No. Particulars Types of wiring system

Cleat Wood casing Batten Lead Sheathed Conduit

capping
1 Cost Low Medium Medium Costly Very costly

2 Voltage Low (up to Low (up to Low (up to Low (up to Low oe
250V) 250V) 250V) 250V) medium (up to
660 V)
3 Durability (Life) Very short Fairly long Long Long Very long

4 Protection against fire Poor No Fair Good Very good

5 Mechanical protection None Fairly good Good Fairly good Very good

6 Dampness protection None Poor Good Good Fairly good

7 Appearance Not good Fair Good Fair Very good

8 Safety No Medium Medium Medium High

9 Type of labour Semi-skilled Highly skilled Skilled Skilled Highly skilled

required
10 General reliability Poor Good Good Fairly good Very good

11 Additions or alteration Very easy Difficult Easy Not very Most difficult
to existing wiring difficult

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