FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

PMB 1526, OWERRI IMO STATE

STUDENTS INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE SCHEME

[SIWES]

DONE AT

EAUXWELL NIGERIA LIMITED, LOCATED AT, 15A ALLEN AVENUE,

INDUSTRIAL ROAD, IKEJA

LAGOS NIGERIA.

SUBMITTED

TO

THE SIWES CO-ORDINATOR

DEPARTMENT OF MECHATRONICS ENGINEERING

SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING AND ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY

WRITTEN BY

ALOZIE CHIBUIKEM JOHN

20171066333

IN PARTIAL FUFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE AWARD

BARCHELORS DEGREE OF ENGINEERING (B.ENG) IN MECHATRONICS

ENGINEERING

FEBRUARY, 2020
 DEDICATION
This report is dedicated to God Almighty for the grace and wisdom throughout the time of

my industrial training and the experience gained during the training.

I also dedicate this work to my parents, Mr and Mrs Alozie for their earnest support

towards my academic success.

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I would like to express the deepest appreciation to the almighty God who made it possible
for me to obtain the required skill in the training institute through good health.
I’m also indebted to the distinguished staffs of Mechatronics Engineering who have
directly or indirectly contributed to the success of my academic success.
My special thanks go to my parent for believing in me and providing me the necessary
support.
One of the major lessons I have come to learn in this life is that “No man is an Island.”
The completion of this industrial training was made possible because of some special
persons who have been helpful in my life.
To my fellow IT students who have been very motivating to me. I am grateful to you all.
Also Engr. Abdul Malik, my industrial supervisor whose guidance has been of immense
helps to me.

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 ABSTRACT
This report is aimed at understanding the basics of Commercial Electrical and energy
services in industry. It contains details about electrical wiring techniques and safety
measures, the various sections of departments, the relevance of safety in our society and
ways in which they could be maintained.

Chapter one focuses on SIWES and its relevance to the educational system of Nigeria.
Chapter two give brief information about Eauxwell Nigeria limited, Chapter three is about
electrical wiring in general while the remaining chapters focuses on the experience gained
during the training session.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY .................................................................................. 1

DEDICATION ....................................................................................................................................... 2
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ................................................................................................................... 3
ABSTRACT ........................................................................................................................................... 4
TABLE OF CONTENTS ....................................................................................................................... 5
CHAPTER ONE .................................................................................................................................... 7
1.1 HISTORY OF SIWES ................................................................................................................. 7
1.2 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF SIWES ...................................................................................... 8
CHAPTER TWO ................................................................................................................................. 10
BRIEF HISTORY OF THE COMPANY ........................................................................................ 10
2.1 INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................... 10
2.2 SERVICE FOCUS ..................................................................................................................... 10
2.3 ZEAL AND GOAL.................................................................................................................... 10
CHAPTER THREE ............................................................................................................................. 12
3.0 INTRODUCTION TO ELECTRICAL WIRING ...................................................................... 12
3.1 MAJOR TYPES OF WIRING SYSTEMS ................................................................................ 12
3.2 COMPONENTS OF WIRING .................................................................................................. 13
3.3 WORKING PRINCIPLE OF RCCB ......................................................................................... 16
3.3.1 HOW IT WORKS – TRIP SWITCH! ................................................................................ 16
CHAPTER FOUR ................................................................................................................................ 20
4.1 DIFFERENT TYPES OF HOUSE ELECTRICAL WIRING SYSTEMS ................................ 20
4.1.1 CLEAT WIRING ................................................................................................................ 20
4.1.2 CASING AND CAPPING WIRING .................................................................................. 20
4.1.3 BATTEN WIRING ............................................................................................................. 20
4.1.4 LEAD SHEATHED WIRING ............................................................................................ 20
4.1.5 CONDUIT WIRING ........................................................................................................... 20
4.2 ADVANTAGES OF CONCEALED CONDUIT WIRING SYSTEM ..................................... 21
4.3 DISADVANTAGES OF CONCEALED CONDUIT WIRING SYSTEM ............................... 21
4.4 COMMON TYPES OF ELECTRICAL WIRING USED IN HOMES ..................................... 21

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 4.4.1 COLOR WIRES.................................................................................................................. 22
4.4.2 NM CABLE ........................................................................................................................ 22
4.4.3 UF CABLE ......................................................................................................................... 22
4.4.4 LOW-VOLTAGE WIRE .................................................................................................... 23
4.4.5 PHONE AND DATA WIRE .............................................................................................. 23
4.5 EQUIPMENTS USED DURING THE TRAINING PROGRAM ............................................ 23
4.5.1 ELECTRICAL TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT .................................................................... 23
CHAPTER FIVE ................................................................................................................................. 33
5.1 OBSERVATIONS AND CONTRIBUTIONS .......................................................................... 33
5.1.1 OBSERVATIONS .............................................................................................................. 33
5.1.2 CONTRIBUTIONS ............................................................................................................ 33
CHAPTER SIX .................................................................................................................................... 35
6.1 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION ......................................................................... 35
6.1.1 CONCLUSION ................................................................................................................... 35
6.1.2 RECOMMENDATION ...................................................................................................... 35
6.2 CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED DURING PERIOD OF TRAINING ................................ 35
6.3 REFERENCES .............................................................................................................................. 36
 CHAPTER ONE

1.1 HISTORY OF SIWES

Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (S.I.W.E.S) is a program, designed to

add practical knowledge to the theoretical acquisition of students with respect to science
and technology. Established in 1973, the federal government has made it the sole
responsibility of the SIWES and ITF to monitor and see to it that students of higher
institutions of learning create the time, during the course of their program, to attach
themselves to a practicing firm and gain good and beneficial working experience, which
will in turn broaden the scope of students and provide them with a clearer and broader
view of their respective professions.

The student industrial work experience scheme (SIWES), commonly referred to as

industrial training (IT) has become a necessary pre-condition and pre-requisite for the
award of diploma and degree certification in almost all higher institutions of learning in
the country in accordance with education policy of government.

The scheme is collaboratively arranged and coordinated by the Industrial Training

Fund (ITF) and some other institutions such as the Nigerian University Commission
(NUC) and the National Board of Technical Education (NBTE) with its Headquarters
situated in Jos, plateau state, which keeps students on allowances through their liaison
offices, set up in various parts of the federation.
Industrial Training Fund (I.T.F) was established in 1971 and has operated consistently and
painstakingly between the contexts of its enabling laws Decree 47 of 1971, as amended in
the 2011 ITF ACT. The objective for which the fund was established has been pursued
effortlessly and vigorously. In the four decades of its existence, the ITF has not only raised
training consciousness in the economy, but has also helped in generating a corps of skilled
indigenous manpower which has been organizing and managing various sectors of the
economy.

Over the years, pursuant to its statutory responsibility, the ITF has expanded its structures,
developed training programmes, reviewed its strategies, operations and services in order to
meet the expanding, and changing demands for skilled manpower in the economy.
Beginning as a parastatal “B” in 1971, headed by a Director, the ITF became a parastatal
“A” in 1981, with a Director-
General as the chief executive under the aegis of the Ministry of Industry. The fund has a
13-member governing council and operates with 6 Departments and 3 Units at the
Headquarters, 29 Area offices, 3 skills Training Centre, and a Centre for industrial training
excellence.

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As part of its responsibilities, ITF provides direct training, vocational and apprentice
training, research and consultancy service, reimbursement of up to 60% levy paid by
employers of labor registered with it, and administers the Student’s Industrial Work
Scheme (SIWES). It also provides human resource development information and training
technology service to industry and commerce to enhance their manpower capacity and in-
house training delivery effort.

The main thrust of ITF programmes and services is to stimulate human performance,
improved productivity, and induce value-added production in industry and commerce.
Through its SIWES and vocational and apprentice training schemes. The fund also builds
capacity for graduates and youth self-employment in the context of small scale
industrialization, in the economy.

1.2 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF SIWES

The aims and objectives of SIWES include;

 To provide students with the opportunity for practical exposure
 To exposure student to prevailing industrial culture.
 To develop the overall skill of the student.
 To prepare student for all it entails to become a competent professional.
 To expose students to work methods and techniques in handling.
 To make transition from school to the World of work easier and enhance students
contact for
later job placements.
 To provide students an opportunity to apply his knowledge in real work situation
thereby
bridging the gap between college and actual practice.
 To enlist and strengthen employers’ involvement in the entire educational process for
preparing students for employment industry

The Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (S.I.W.E.S) aims at practically educating
potential professionals about their various professions by attaching them to various
relevant establishment, in this case architecture being the profession. This report aims at
unveiling my experience that was made possible by these three (3) major elements;

1. The Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (S.I.W.E.S)

2. The profession-architecture
3. The establishment

The students Industrial Work Experience Scheme is a program designed to impart

practical methods of performing professions function to undergraduates of the nation’s
tertiary institutions studying professional courses. It is aimed at exposing the students to
the outside world to experience and appreciate the deference inherent in professional
practice and the theory that is imparted to them in
their various institutions.

- To enlist and strengthen employer’s involvement in the entire educational process and
prepare students for the employment in industry and commerce.

- To acquaint the student with the skills of handling employer’s equipment and machinery
thereby, bridging the gap between theory and practical.

- To prepare student for the industrial work situation they are going to meet after
graduation.

- To make transition from school to the world of work easier and enhances students
contact for later job placement.

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 CHAPTER TWO

BRIEF HISTORY OF THE COMPANY

2.1 INTRODUCTION

Eauxwell is truly the nation’s leading renewable energy company which provides world
class procurement and supply service, bringing to bear our expertise, experience and
global partnerships.

Eauxwell has effectively specialized in product sales, design and engineering services in
the fields of portable water supply, solar water pumping and street lighting, rooftop and
ground mounted off grid systems, hybrid and backup power supply systems for
households, commercial clients and government agencies. We deliver turnkey solutions
and provide operational and maintenance services to our clients.

We are relentlessly committed to consistently delivering high quality solutions within a

reasonable turnaround time at very competitive prices. We have thus been privileged to
establish a formidable partnership with our clients as well as long standing relationships
with renowned original equipment manufacturers across the globe.

2.2 SERVICE FOCUS

We provide materials, supporting production, facilities, and infrastructural projects in the

Nigerian Cosmetics Industry. Our proficiency in the sector covers a wide range of services

2.3 ZEAL AND GOAL

We pride ourselves in delivering word class services to our clients with a cumulated
wealth of experience spanning over 21 years.

We understand that good and competent people make a difference and so at the industry,
we provide an extensive range of specialist manpower consisting of temporary
placements, recruitment and management of both Nigerian and expatriate manpower. We
maintain a global database, enabling us to efficiently access talent across the Cosmetics
industry.

Our commitment to understanding our clients' needs stands us out. We specialise in the
development of bespoke solutions while maintaining global industry standards thus adding
value to our clients’ business goals.

Company’s Organogram

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 CHAPTER THREE

3.0 INTRODUCTION TO ELECTRICAL WIRING

Electrical wiring is a process of connecting different accessories for the distribution of

electrical energy from the supplier to various appliances and equipment at home like
television, lamps, air conditioners, etc.

3.1 MAJOR TYPES OF WIRING SYSTEMS

 LEAD SHEATHED WIRING

In this type of wiring system, conductors are insulated with VIR and have a lead aluminum
alloy acting as an additional sheath. This sheath protects the cables from moisture and
corrosion. Link clips keep the cabling affixed to walls or ceilings while the lead sheath is
grounded in the earth for safety reasons; lead conducts electricity, after all.

 SURFACE CONDUIT WIRING

Electrical Contractor There are two essential types of conduit wiring systems. Surface
conduit wiring involves conduits that are directly installed along the ceiling or walls of a
building. The electric company makes holes of equal distance along the wall where conduits
are installed. The conduits consist of steel tubes which are held against the wall using hooks.

 CONCEALED CONDUIT WIRING

With concealed conduit wiring, conduits are actually hidden in the walls behind plastering.
Obviously, this is more preferable from an aesthetic point of view, making it one of the most
popular types of wiring systems in use currently. Along with the aesthetic benefits, some
electrical contractors find that this type of system offers additional protection for the cowiring.

3.2 COMPONENTS OF WIRING

 ELECTRIC METER

First in the list of common electrical parts you see every day is the Electric meter. It is used by
the national electricity grid to measure the units of electrical energy used in your household
circuits. Yeah, that’s how they find the amount you need to pay for your electricity bill per
month

 SWITCHES

A switch is a device used to break a circuit to interrupt the flow of electricity. Switches are
furnished in several types; surface and flush mounting; single pole, double pole, three-way
and four- way toggle and push button operation. Switches can be furnished in combination
with convenience receptacles, pilot lights or several switches can be obtained mounted
together in one unit.

 RECEPTACLE

A receptacle is a convenient tap from which an electric current may be obtained by inserting a
suitable plug. Receptacles are usually furnished in the duplex type; however, they may be
obtained as single or triple units. Convenience receptacles are made up in combination

with switches, pilot lights and radio receptacles. Receptacles are obtainable in indoor,
weather-proof and explosion-proof types and are made in a number of capacities.

 FUSE

A fuse is an electrical part which you can’t see as its always inside a plug or an electrical
device such as TV. Basically fuses are used to protect electrical appliances, parts and

13
electronic components from potential damage due to a high current – Ampere – flowing in the
circuit. This electrical part is a small length thin wire created using lead and tin alloy. These
days’ fuse wire is commonly seen in a glass tube for easy use. There are different fuse wires
with the ability to conduct certain maximum currents such as 3A, 5A, 13A and 15A.

 COUPLE OF FUSE HOLDERS

Yes, that’s for the domestic electrical circuits, fuses for the commercial systems can go as
high as 300,000A. When designing the circuit diagram the circuit designers use various
symbols.

It’s this symbol ⏛ where you strike a small rectangle box that represent the electrical part
protecting your electrical devices – Fuse!

When electrical current flows through the circuit exceeding the rated ampere value of the fuse,
the thin wire melts down (fuses) thanks to heating effect of electric current and in return
makes the closed-circuit an open-circuit. As you already guessed, open-circuits never flow
electrical current, hence the current flow is cut down suddenly while protecting the appliance
and other electrical parts & components.

In other words, fuse is kind of a superhero which saves the day by sacrificing itself for the
greater good.

When a fuse goes down, it’s gone forever. Since replacing fuses seem annoying, a new
electrical part was created to avoid such complications. This component is a miniature circuit
breaker and it looks like a switch consisting various ampere values. Circuit breakers function
similar to fuses. In the event of an exceeding current flow than the rated ampere value, the
switch opens and stops the current, instead of melting anything or dying forever. The circuit
can be connected again by closing the switch.

 DISTRIBUTION BOX

Distribution Box Includes These Electrical Parts

Distribution box is another easy to notice electrical part in your home. It consists 3 more
electrical parts, namely,

Main Switch (MCCB – Moulded Case Circuit Breaker)

 Trip Switch (RCCB – Residual Current Circuit Breaker)

Circuit Breakers (CBs)

As the name implies, Distribution Box simply distributes the electric supply to sections of the
house. These sections contain light circuits [Light Switches + Light Bulbs], fan circuits [Fan
Regulator + Fan] and plug socket circuits.

In each of these circuits the Live Wire is connected to a circuit breaker which will be
explained in a moment.

 MAIN SWITCH (MCCB)

You know every house or commercial building has a distribution box which is where the
Main Switch is located. It’s the first electrical part receiving the electricity from the electric
meter inside your house. Therefore, the Main Switch is the responsible part to take down the
electricity throughout the house as required. Often useful while upgrading house wiring and
when thundering & lightning to disconnect the supply.

 SINGLE & THREE-PHASE MAIN SWITCHES

There are 2 wires inside the cable coming from the electric meter namely Live Wire and
Neutral Wire. These 2 wires are then connected to the Main Switch. While the main switch is
OFF the electric supply is stopped by disconnecting the two wires.

Remember, current flows only when the circuit is closed, hence the current flows specifically
when the Main Switch is ON. That’s why you need to OFF the Main Switch to disconnect the
power. Quite the other way around than the usual “switch on”. Right?

 TRIP SWITCH (RCCB)

Different Trip Switch Brands, just like a fuse protecting people and electrical appliances is the
primary goal of the Trip Switch, an electric switch designed to interrupt a circuit suddenly &
automatically.

However, it’s not a fuse, but a type of circuit breaker. This electrical part’s common name is
Trip Switch while the technical term is RCCB – Residual Current Circuit Breaker. Trip
Switch is there to help you multiple times compared to a fuse.
15
Electric current coming from the Main Switch connects to the Trip Switch via Live & Neutral
Wires.

If there is a fault in any of the circuits in the house this switch opens (Trip) automatically and
disconnects the power supply. For example, when someone gets electrocuted or when your
house become a target of a lightning attack. Since the Trip Switch is so useful, it comes with a
Test Button letting you check if it works as expected.

3.3 WORKING PRINCIPLE OF RCCB

3.3.1 HOW IT WORKS – TRIP SWITCH!

Residual Current Circuit Breakers work by comparing the current entering the appliance via
the live wire with the current leaving the appliance through the neutral wire. This difference in
electrical current is called the residual current. RCCB Tripping current commonly 30mA
(0.03A) or 100mA (0.1A), depending on the country it will change.

RCCB consists of,

 Primary coil
 Secondary coil
 Trip coil

Always Primary coil and Secondary coil will sense the load current (IL and IN). When the
circuit is OK the IL=IN, then trip coil will not get any current (IL-IN=0A) to energize the trip
coil

When the circuit Not OK the IL>IN, it means the trip coil will get some amount of current
(IL-IN=3A). If IL-IN exceeding the RCCB tripping current, Trip coil energized and RCCB
immediately trip.

It can happen due to a fault in the circuit or when earth leakage current exceeds the value of
tripping current of the RCCB.

 WALL SWITCHES

No wonder you have switched the switches thousands of times. Wall Switches are among the
top consumed electrical parts list in any place that uses electricity.
Single, Two & Three Gang Wall Switches

Switches are used in light circuits and plug socket circuits to connect or disconnect the circuit
according to the will of the individual.

There are different types of wall switches such as Push Button, Press Button, Toggle and
Rocker while the latter is the universal light switch used on most houses these days. Then
there are single, double, triple, quadruple as well as quintuple wall switches.

Electricians can attach multiple lights to a single switch as long as the current rating of the
switch is not exceeded, for example all outdoor lights can be attached to a single switch letting
you light up them at once easily.

 PLUG SOCKETS

Plug sockets are used to get electric supply for appliances like computers, electrical heaters,
televisions, refrigerators and whatever electrical device you’ve been using

1. Plug Sockets with Various Types of Sockets

2. Plug Base is another name used to refer Plug Sockets

There are plug sockets to get 5A, 13A or 15A current. Similar to wall switches, there are
different types of Plug Sockets based on pin type such as two-pin plugs and three-pin plugs
where the 3rd pin is for Earth Wire. To get these connections, electricians use two core wires
and three core wires.

Plug Sockets come with a switch for extra protection, so you don’t get electrocuted or harm
your appliances while plugging. For safety, you need to OFF the switch before plugging any
plugs.

 ELECTRICAL WIRES & CABLES

Electrical wires are used to transport electric current, be that from electric meter to
distribution box to power outlets (Plug sockets), all things get the supply through various
electrical wires.

There are 3 types of electrical wires,

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  Live Wire
 Neutral Wire
 Earth Wire

Wires with Red or Brown colors are used for live connections, so those are the Live Wires.
Then the wires with Blue or Black colors are used for neutral connections, so they are the
Neutral Wires. If you see a Green or Yellow-Green wire, remember they are used for earth
connections, which means those are the Earth Wires.

Household circuits are designed by using various types of wires as explained above. Electrical
cable is formed when all these 3 wires or at least the crucial 2 [Live & Neutral] wires are
insulated with rubber or plastic cover. Here are more important details about electrical wires.

WIRE CODE CURRENT(A) COLOURS USE CASES

SECTION
(mm2)
1/1.13 1.0mm2 11A RED OR CIRCUITS 5A PLUG
BLACK BASE
7/0.50 1.5mm2 15A RED OR CIRCUITS 15A PLUG
BLACK BASE
7/0.85 4mm2 24A RED OR CIRCUITS POWER
BLACK CABLE
7/1.04 6mm2 31A RED OR CIRCUITS POWER
BLACK CABLE

 TWO WAY SWITCHES

Two way switches are the last electrical part explained in this article. It’s a bit different than
the normal wall switches in terms of how it operates.

These switches are used to operate a light from two different places. Normal wall switches
only have 2 connections, while Two Way switches got 3 connections.

Couple of ways Two Way switches are used,

When you need to ON and OFF a light bulb in a staircase from top as well as bottom.
To ON and OFF a light bulb outside your door, when you go out at night.

For example, in the 2nd instance, you ON the switch while you inside the house and then you
lock the door once outside. Now you want to OFF the switch, how do you do that? You setup
a Two Way switch outside the house and you OFF it there.

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 CHAPTER FOUR

4.1 DIFFERENT TYPES OF HOUSE ELECTRICAL WIRING SYSTEMS

4.1.1 CLEAT WIRING

This wiring comprises of PVC insulated wires or ordinary VIR that are braided and
compounded. They are held on walls and ceilings using porcelain cleats with groves, wood or
plastic. It is a temporary wiring system, therefore making it unsuitable for domestic premises.
Moreover, cleat wiring system is rarely being used these days.

4.1.2 CASING AND CAPPING WIRING

It was quite popular in the past but it is considered obsolete these days due to the popularity of
the conduit and sheathed wiring system. The cables used in this electric wiring were PVC,
VIR or any other approved insulated cables. The cables were carried through the wooden
casing enclosures, where the casing was made of a strip of wood with parallel grooves cut
lengthwise for accommodating the cables.

4.1.3 BATTEN WIRING

This is when a single electrical wire or a group of wires are laid over a wooden batten. The
wires are held to the batten using a brass clip and spaced at an interval of 10 cm for horizontal
runs and 15 cm for vertical runs.

4.1.4 LEAD SHEATHED WIRING

Lead sheathed wiring uses conductors which are insulated with VIR and are covered with an
outer sheath of lead aluminum alloy which contains about 95% lead. The metal sheath gives
protection to cables from mechanical damage, moisture and atmospheric corrosion.

4.1.5 CONDUIT WIRING

There are two types of conduit wiring according to pipe installation:
SURFACE CONDUIT WIRING When GI or PVC conduits are installed on walls or roof, it
is known as surface conduit wiring. The conduits are attached to the walls with a 2-hole strap
and base clip at regular distances. Electrical wires are laid inside the conduits.

CONCEALED CONDUIT WIRING When the conduits are hidden inside the wall slots or
chiseled brick wall, it is called concealed conduit wiring. Electrical wires are laid inside the
conduits. This is popular since it is stronger and more aesthetically appealing.

4.2 ADVANTAGES OF CONCEALED CONDUIT WIRING SYSTEM

 It is a safe wiring system

 Safe from chemical effects, humidity and other external factors
 No risk of shock
 It is aesthetically appealing
 No risk of wear and tear, fire or damaged cable insulation
 Quite reliable
 Renovations can be easily performed as you can replace old wires easily

4.3 DISADVANTAGES OF CONCEALED CONDUIT WIRING SYSTEM

 Expensive as compared to surface conduit wiring

 Changing the location of switches or appliances is difficult
 Installation is complex
 Hard to find defects in the wiring
 Adding additional conduit in future is a tedious task

4.4 COMMON TYPES OF ELECTRICAL WIRING USED IN HOMES

Knowing the basic wire types is essential to almost any electrical project around the house.
When you're installing new wiring, choosing the right wire or cable is half the battle. And
when you are examining existing wiring in your home, the wiring type can tell you a lot about
the circuit the wiring belongs to—for example, when you open up a junction box and need to

21
determine which wires go where. Wiring for modern homes is quite standard, and most homes
built after the mid-1960s have similar types of wiring. Any new electrical installation requires
new wiring that conforms to local building codes.

4.4.1 COLOR WIRES

It helps to understand a few basic terms used to describe wiring. An electrical wire is a type of
conductor, a material that conducts electricity. In the case of household wiring, the conductor
itself is usually copper or aluminum, and either solid or stranded wire. Most wires in a home
are insulated, meaning they are wrapped in a nonconductive plastic coating. One notable
exception is ground wires, which are typically solid copper and are either insulated with green
insulation or are uninsulated (bare).

4.4.2 NM CABLE
Commonly called “Romex,” after the popular brand name, NM cable is designed for interior
use in dry locations. Almost all of the wiring in a modern home is NM cable. The most
common sizes and their amperage (amp) ratings are:

 14-gauge (15-amp circuits)

 12-gauge (20-amp circuits)
 10-gauge (30-amp circuits)
 8-gauge (40-amp circuits)
 6-gauge (55-amp circuits)

4.4.3 UF CABLE
Underground Feeder (UF) is a type of nonmetallic cable designed for wet locations and direct
burial in the ground. It is commonly used for supplying outdoor fixtures, such as lampposts.
Like standard NM cable, UF contains insulated hot and neutral wires, plus a bare ground wire.
But while sheathing on NM cable is a separate plastic wrap, UF cable sheathing is solid
plastic that completely surrounds each wire.

THHN and THWN are codes for the two most common types of insulated wire used inside
conduit. Conduit is often used in unfinished areas, such as basements and garages, and for
short exposed runs inside the home, such as wiring connections for garbage disposers and hot
water heaters. The letters indicate specific properties of the wire insulation:

T: thermoplastic
H: heat-resistant; HH means highly heat-resistant

W: rated for wet locations

N: nylon-coated, for added protection

4.4.4 LOW-VOLTAGE WIRE

Low-voltage wiring is used for circuits typically requiring 50 volts or less. Three common
types are landscape lighting wire, bell wire (for doorbells), and thermostat wire. Wire sizes
range from about 22 gauge to 12 gauge. Low-voltage wires typically are insulated and may be
contained in cable sheathing or combined in pairs, similar to lamp cord wire. It must be used
only for low-voltage applications.

4.4.5 PHONE AND DATA WIRE

Telephone and data wiring are low-voltage wires used for “land line” telephones and for
internet hookups. Telephone cable may contain four or eight wires. Category 5, or Cat 5,
cable, the most common type of household data wiring, contains eight wires wrapped together
in four pairs. It can be used for both phone and data transmission and offers greater capacity
and quality than standard phone wire

4.5 EQUIPMENTS USED DURING THE TRAINING PROGRAM

4.5.1 ELECTRICAL TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

Before you tackle any electrical project, having the proper tools is essential to getting the job
done efficiently, correctly, and more importantly, safely! The old saying, use the right tool for
the job, couldn’t be more relevant, especially when it comes to electrical work.

23
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

Your personal safety should be the most important consideration. Goggles and safety glasses,
gloves, long-sleeve shirts, long pants or blue jeans, hard hat, etc. A large dose of common
sense is required here. Think about the hazards and protect yourself accordingly before taking
on any task.

CIRCUIT TESTERS

You need to have a voltage tester of some type for electrical work, and one that you trust is
working properly! This can be anything from a $2 neon voltage check, to a $2000 digital
multi-meter, or anything in between. The important thing is to ensure that it is working so
you can verify that you have the power off on any circuit you may be working with. Check it
on a known live source before trusting it to determine if your circuit is dead.

SCREWDRIVERS

It is essential to have a good quality set of screwdrivers. It is best to purchase them in a

complete set rather than individually, as this will save you money, and increase the chances
that you will have the driver that best fits the need.

A basic set of screwdrivers should include the 3 main types of screwdriver heads.

 The Standard blade tip

 The Phillips tip
 The recessed square shank or Robertson tip

You need at least two sizes of each, but a full set would include:

1. Standard blade
  3/16″ Cabinet Tip 4″shaft
 3/16″ Cabinet Tip 6″shaft
 1/4″ Keystone Tip 4″shaft
 5/16″ Keystone Tip 6″shaft

2. Phillips Tip

 #1 Phillips Tip 4″shaft

 #2 Phillips Tip 4″shaft
 #3 Phillips Tip 6″shaft

3. Square Recess Tip (Robertson)

 #0 yellow 4″shaft
 #1 green 4″shaft
 #2 red 4″shaft
 #3 black 4″shaft

The square recess screwdriver system is used extensively in Canada, but not so much in the
U.S.A. In the opinion of anyone who has used them, they are a superior system to the Phillips
tip, but for reasons that involve some patent dispute or disagreement, they are not common in
the States. They work on most combination head receptacles, switches, and panel screws.

CORDLESS SCREWDRIVER/DRILL

If you are going to take on any project beyond the most basic of jobs, such as, for example,
changing out an individual receptacle or switch, you should have a good cordless drill and
driver tool, along with a complete set of screwdriver bits and drill bits. This will save you a
lot of time and when used properly, a power driver can be used in place of a screwdriver for
most jobs.

I recommend purchasing a driver and drill instead of a basic cordless screwdriver as the
quality is usually better, and one tool will perform both functions. Get the best quality you
can afford, and make sure it has a 1/2″drive, and that is has sufficient power to drill a 1″ hole
using an auger bit.

If you will be using it a lot as a screwdriver, then give some consideration to the weight and
size when selecting the tool.

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ELECTRIC DRILL

For larger projects, with a lot of drilling required (wood studs, etc.), then an electric drill is
more practical. A 1/2″ medium duty drill is a minimum for driving a wood auger bit.

KNIFE

You will need to have a good knife, and I prefer a standard utility knife for stripping the PVC
jacket from Romex, stripping large gauge wire, and for many other jobs as well.

WIRE STRIPPERS

Have a good quality wire stripper. I prefer a T-Stripper with a wire cutter, light-duty plier
nose, and holes for bending termination loops on wires for most home electrical work. A
combination crimper, cutter, stripper, bolt cutter and more, like those found in automotive
electrical repair kits can be very handy as well, but the multi-purpose aspect means that the
wire stripping function is compromised.

A mechanical wire stripper does a really good job, especially for commercial or industrial
applications, but is not really necessary for the novice DIYér.
LINEMAN’S PLIER

A lineman’s plier, or a bull nose plier with a wire cutter, and at least 8″or 9″ handles is also an
essential part of the electrical tool list. We use these for cutting, bending, twisting wires, etc.

STANDARD, LONG-NOSED PLIERS

Also known as needle-nosed pliers. These tools are also very handy to have as a part of your
electrical tool kit. They should have wire cutting knives as well.

DIAGONAL PLIERS

27
Also known as side-cutters. A standard duty diagonal plier should also be a part of your kit.

HAMMER

Have a good quality, 16oz. claw hammer. You will need this for driving staples, nails, etc.

NUT DRIVERS

A good set of nut drivers is not essential, but come in very handy for certain jobs where a
wrench or a socket set isn’t practical.

TAPE MEASURE

Have a good quality, locking tape measure and a 25’length, 1″ blade is maybe over-kill, but
will come in handy for other projects around the home.

TAPE MEASURE

A 6″ plastic torpedo level is essential for levelling outlet boxes, cover plates, wall fixtures, etc.
A plastic level is less likely to leave marks.

Always check to make sure the level is indeed “level”. Before purchasing, check on a flat
surface and note the position of the bubble, even if not quite at center. Then flip the level end
for end in the exact same location and see if the bubble is in the same spot. You would be
surprised how many you will find that don’t pass this test. Especially in the lower quality
price range

CRESCENT WRENCH

Have one or two sizes of crescent wrenches in your kit.

PUMP PLIERS

Very handy, and essential if you are working with conduit, such as EMT, flexible conduit, or
teck cable.

PIPE WRENCH

Essential if working with conduit, especially rigid or EMT conduit.

ELECTRICAL TAPE

Every electrical tool kit should have at least a roll of black electrical tape, and having a few
colours like red and blue helps as well for identifying wires, etc.

DUCT TAPE

Every tool kit, electrical or otherwise, must have the universal repair tool that is a roll of duct
tape!

A TOOL POUCH

Not essential, but unless you have big baggy pockets, this is a very handy thing to have,
especially if you will be working off ladders, or your work area is spread out. This can save
you a lot of trips by having the essential tools strapped onto your body.

TOOL BOX OR CHEST

You need something, even if it’s just a big pail, to keep everything together, and to have a
place to put all your tools away. It’s nice to have a good tool box with many compartments to
help you keep organized.

TOOL BOX

29
Ladders and Step Stools

They won’t fit in your toolbox, but you will need the appropriate size for the height you will
be working at.

NOTEBOOK OR NOTEPAD

Great idea to have a notepad in your toolbox to make diagrams, to take notes or reminders of
how things were before disconnecting them, etc.

Pen, Pencil, Felt Pens, etc.

For obvious reasons.

BANDAGES

No matter how careful you are, accidents happen. Just do all you can to protect yourself and
to minimize the potential for injury. Have a first aid kit handy, just in case!

KEYHOLE SAW

Great for cutting out openings for outlet boxes in drywall, panelboard, etc.

HACKSAW

Critical if working with EMT conduit, flex, etc. If cutting a lot of metal, then an electric
reciprocating saw will save you time.

Hack Saw

Power Saw or Skill Saw

For cutting studs, blocking and reinforcing boxes, etc.

Wood Chisel

Many uses when working with wood construction.

CONDUIT BENDER

If working with conduit, you will need a hickey bender or any bending tool designed for the
conduit you are working with.

Fish Tape, and/or Fishing Tools

A fish tape is very handy, and essential if working with conduit. A fish tape or fishing tools
are required if you are installing electrical in existing walls or ceilings and are trying to
minimize the damage you may cause by cutting as few access holes as possible.

FLASHLIGHT/HEADLAMP

31
For when you need some extra light for dark places, or when the power is off while working
on existing systems.
 CHAPTER FIVE

5.1 OBSERVATIONS AND CONTRIBUTIONS

5.1.1 OBSERVATIONS
 As a student my first observation was the cognition of the difference between
the school environment and the labour market, as it is a different ball game
entirely.

 I also observed that safety was paramount and it could easy be seen as the
primary goal of every staff of the company and not only the technicians. As
safety equipment’s and instructions were always put in place or made available
at strategic locations within the company. From the workshop to the service
desks to the customer care centres to the offices to the receptions.

 Neatness was also a key attribute as even though the job is usually seen as a
dirty job, technicians were always admonished to be as neat as possible in their
dressing and in carrying out their duties. This was further encouraged by
rewarding technicians that could fully adhere to this.

 The hospitality shown to customers was of another level as customers were

treated with so much care and respect. From provision of free breakfast and
lunch, to a brief internal training, to free medical checkup the customers were
always made to feel at ease.

 Communication played a vital role in the successful execution of jobs, from among
personnel’s in a section to departments communicating with other departments
present in the company and also customers with company’s personnel. Good flow
of information was required and as a result most jobs that were returned or
problematic, come about as a result of poor communication between parties.

5.1.2 CONTRIBUTIONS
My contributions were shown in my work done and services given as Electrical technician
in the company, which was basically installation of electrical gadgets. I majorly help in
tracing the electrical fault using the multi meters to read the electrical circuit and also I
was able to maximize the job efficiency and work output in my section, because after a
couple of weeks my section supervisor gave me the access to work directly with the spare
parts and material store department, thereby speeding up the job completion process, as he
wasn’t always around to attend due to official reasons. I was also able to revive the job

33
registration process as it was slightly overlooked prior to my attachment because of the
magnitude of work in the section.
 CHAPTER SIX

6.1 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

6.1.1 CONCLUSION
My THREE months’ industrial attachment as a junior technician/ industrial trainee at
Eauxwell Nigeria limited was a huge success and a great time of acquisition of knowledge
and skills. Through my training I was able to appreciate my chosen course of study even
more, because I had the opportunity to blend the theoretical knowledge acquired from
school with the practical hands-on application of knowledge gained here to perform very
important tasks that contributed in a way to my productivity in the company. My training
here has given me a broader view to the importance and relevance of Mechatronics
Engineers in the immediate society and the world as a whole, as I now look forward to
impacting it positively after graduation.

6.1.2 RECOMMENDATION
I use this means to make the following recommendations concerning the training of
students in Industrial Attachments.

 I would like to recommend that the Engineering curriculum in the University of

Lagos be adjusted such as would provide going on industrial attachments for a
longer period of time as opposed to 6 months or making the program to occur twice
throughout an engineering degree program.

 Allowances should be paid to students during their programme just like NYSC and
not after. This would help them a great deal to handle some financial problems
during their training course.

6.2 CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED DURING PERIOD OF TRAINING

 I wasn’t allowed to drive cars after repair. So I could not do active test using
Diagnostic machines on my own.

 And I was not allowed to go out to repair car. I was restricted to the workshop.

35
 6.3 REFERENCES
 “Guide to successful participation in SIWES” by Engr. Olusegun A.T Mafe, 2009
 Company Profile. Germaine Auto Centre. Retrieved from www.germaine-
ng.com/newsite
 www.eauxwell.com
 “AirBreakCircuitBreaker”http://www.oocities.org/hemant_thermal/airbreakcircuit
breaker.html