October 2004 

Below are listed featured articles from the October 2004 issue, Vol. 57, no. 10 © 2004 Barks Publications, Inc. ... see also October 2004 departments and columns and Previous issues

• When a 'neutral' isn't neutral    Few codes or standards offer a clear definition.

  In both single-phase and three-phase a-c power systems, one of the most frequently encountered terms is “neutral”—as in “neutral conductor,” “grounded neutral,” or “line-to-neutral” load connection or voltage. But “neutral,” in an electrical context, should not always be associated with definitions such as “safe to touch” or “not presenting a shock hazard.” While under certain conditions those presumptions may be correct, this important article explains why neither will be true under all electrical system conditions. (Read an online summary) (trilingual summary appears in the magazine) By Richard L. Nailen, P.E., EA Engineering Editor

• Examining the new and old at electrical manufacturing show    A special section devoted to equipment and materials used in apparatus service.  We roundup of the latest in machines, testing equipment, tools, apparatus, protective gear and other innovations designed to improve the efficiency and increase the profitability of electrical servicing operations. Edited by the EA Staff

• Back to the future II     The more we predict things will change, the more they may stay the same.  By Richard L. Nailen, P.E., EA Engineering Editor

The 'home of tomorrow' as envisioned in 1989 -
a fully electrified 'Plastics Living Environment.'
Don't look for this in your neighborhood yet.

• Which phase is which?  

  Assigning colors is the most popular method.  Matching phase sequence to motor rotation, load balancing and electrical system troubleshooting requires clear identification of the conductors in three-phase feeder circuits. But the usual system standards don’t specify specific methods. This important feature provides a guide to the most commonly used conductor color-coding systems. By Richard L. Nailen, RE., EA Engineering Editor

• Is exporting right for your company?  An alignment of economic factors may make exporting feasible for smaller firms.  By William H. Wiersema, CPA, EA Contributing Editor

• Is knee surgery in your future?   The likelihood of worn-down ligaments and cartilage increases as we age  By Richard B. Elsberry, EA Contributing Editor

See also October 2004's Departments, columns