What is a Control Wiring System?
The purpose of control wiring is to transfer information or communicate demands within an electrical system. Control wiring is used to regulate or control devices in a system. It’s helpful to think of a control wiring system as like the nervous system in the human body. The nervous system is your body’s command center. The brain utilizes a network of nerves to send signals and commands throughout your body. A control wiring system functions in a similar manner. Moreover, control wiring can be seen in heating, air conditioning, and lighting systems. Low voltage control systems are used for residential and commercial applications. Line voltage control systems are used in large commercial and industrial applications. Special control systems such as electric control systems are used to control large industrial systems.
4 Basic Methods of Control
Line-Voltage Wiring
In a traditional lighting control system, line-voltage (Class 1) wiring provides power (120-277V AC) and load connectivity for lighting equipment. Line-voltage wiring groups light fixtures by circuit/switch-leg to create control zones. A controller is used to provide or deny electric power which turns the zone, or rather the lights, on/off. Line-voltage wiring can, also, serve as a pathway for control signals. This power-line carrier communication can raise/lower dimming signals. This wiring serves as a reliable path for both power and communication. Additionally, electrical workers are very familiar with it and therefore less prone to installation errors. However, line-voltage wiring offers limited control options and flexibility. This wiring needs to be installed in protected runs, such as conduit, which can increase the price of installation.
Dedicated Control Wiring
Dedicated control working can provide you with both advanced functionality and more flexibility. This wiring is low voltage (Class 2, typically 10-24V DC) and provides a pathway for power and communication for low-voltage control devices. This pathway is, also, a route for analog and digital signals. This wiring is inherently flexible as most codes do not require it to be installed in conduit, allowing it to be installed independent of the power wiring. Additionally, this wiring is safer to install and may not require an electrical trade to install it. However, the potential for miswiring is higher than with line-voltage wiring. Additionally, there may be limits to the number of control devices that can be connected to the network.
Low-Voltage Wiring: Analog 0-10V DC
Analog 0-10V wiring uses two wires with a 1-10V potential between them. Wiring size typically varies from 22 AWG to 14 AWG. Given that this wire is typically stranded copper, it’s easier to work with and provides a stable path for current. Commands sent are based on voltage levels and therefore draw current. The wiring may be shielded or unshielded. It does not have to be installed in conduit.
Low-Voltage Wiring: Digital
Digital wiring uses two wires with a maximum potential of 18V between them. Very little current is drawn through the wires. Instead, commands and other information are transmitted as digital binary messages. This wiring forms a single path connecting all control devices, resulting in simpler, more refined wiring configurations. Digital wiring has, also, revolutionized lighting controls allowing multiple energy management strategies to be deployed at the individual fixture level.
Control Wiring Systems for Data Centers and Fire Alarm Systems
Because a data center has demanding HVAC requirements, it must have a control wiring system that responds quickly and efficiently. Without a properly working control system, a data center may experience a destructive and costly failure. Still, you’ll find that most data centers are built with commercial Direct Digital Control (DDC) style control systems. Commercial systems typically use a mix of “unitary” controllers to control a singular piece of equipment. Larger building controllers are used for facility-wide programming tasks or monitoring general I/O points. A DDC looks at sensor data input, performs logic or calculations, and writes outputs. DDCs, also, have program execution times measured in seconds.
When it comes to fire alarms, there are generally two types used within commercial buildings: conventional and addressable. Both excel when it comes to performance, but addressable fire alarm systems are typically preferred in commercial settings. The addressable fire alarm offers more efficient incident identification and intelligence because of its control wiring system. In an addressable fire alarm system, all devices such as detectors, call points, and alarm bells are connected in a loop system to the fire addressable control panel. Each connected device has a unique identifier that can allow the control center to specifically identify the detector that caused the alarm. Because of its ability to quickly pinpoint specific locations, this type of installation works best for commercial/industrial facilities which can then direct fire-fighting efforts to a specified location.
The Costs Associated with Control Wiring System Installation
When it comes to installing a control wiring system, the cost may vary depending on several factors. Materials are a smaller part of the project, but they can impact the price. Related materials and supplies can include connectors, fittings, junction boxes, and fasteners. Price can vary depending on the wire types as well. Labor makes up the bulk of the cost because it is a time-consuming process and requires a registered electrician. Labor may include planning, equipment and material acquisition, area preparation and protection, set-up, and clean-up. As you can see, there is a lot that goes into the installation process.
Hire Santella Electric
Here at Santella Electric, we are here to work with you! We work tirelessly to meet your needs and ensure your satisfaction. Not only this, but we understand that a properly functioning control wiring system is essential for your production and manufacturing operations. Our CWS technicians will ensure that the installation process goes smoothly and that your business will have the best wiring system in the market. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns at any time!
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