The Case for Molded Case Circuit Breakers

7 important facts for Engineering consideration:We’re talking about protecting your entire control panel - pretty important isn't it?  Molded case circuit breakers have held the number one position for this application for many years.  Molded case circuit breakers (MCCBs) offer several advantages that make them a popular choice in electrical applications, specifically the main power feed disconnect and protector.  Here are seven important facts concerning MCCB’s:1.  Overcurrent Protection: MCCBs are designed to protect electrical circuits... More

Let’s talk about DIN Rail - are you buying it AND are you cutting it?

Let’s talk about DIN Rail - are you buying it AND are you cutting it?  If so, let American Electrical, Inc. help you in both cases!AEI sells all types of DIN Rail - steel and aluminum in solid or slotted AND shallow (7.5mm) or deep (15mm) versions in one or two meter lengths.  AEI’s wide variety of DIN Rail is available for shipment from Richmond, VA for an extremely competitive price - and if you... More

Aesthetics Count ! How does your control cabinet stack up?

Let’s face it - Looks matter.  How does your control cabinet look through the eyes of your customer?Creating a visually appealing and neatly organized control cabinet while ensuring safety and functionality requires attention to several key aspects. Here's 10 things that you can do to design the best-looking and safe control box:1.  Layout Planning: Start by carefully planning the layout of components within the cabinet. Group similar components together and arrange them logically to minimize... More

Why should you protect your control system from Mother Nature?

Protecting control systems from lightning is crucial for several reasons:Preventing Damage: Lightning strikes can cause significant damage to control systems, including electrical components, circuitry, and connected devices. This damage can result in system downtime, costly repairs, and potential data loss.Ensuring Operational Continuity: Control systems are often critical for the operation of various processes and infrastructure, such as power plants, transportation systems, and manufacturing facilities. Protecting them from lightning helps maintain uninterrupted operations and prevents disruptions... More

Best Practice: How to Properly Terminate Thermocouple Wires

First let's discuss Thermocouples!  A thermocouple is a temperature sensor device used to measure temperature in various industrial, scientific, and commercial applications. It consists of two different metal wires or alloys joined together at one end, called the sensing or measuring junction, and connected to a temperature-measuring instrument at the other end.  When the two different types of metals are joined together, they produce a micro-voltage proportional to the temperature. What happens in between that junction... More

Why do we Isolate Circuits?

Electrical isolation is crucial in various scenarios to ensure safety, prevent electrical interference, and protect sensitive components. Isolation refers to the separation of electrical circuits or components from each other. There are several reasons why isolation may be necessary:Safety: Isolation is vital for preventing electric shock.  Isolating circuits can minimize the risk of electrical accidents and protect individuals from harmNoise and Interference Reduction: Isolating circuits can help reduce electrical noise and interference. In sensitive electronic... More

Power Distribution Blocks allow easy connection of conductors to distribute power from one load into multiple smaller loads

Power Distribution Blocks allow easy connection of conductors to distribute power from one load into multiple smaller loads. They are installed downstream of a disconnect switch, transfer switch, or circuit breaker.IP20 Finger Safe Protection• IP20 rated.• Finger-safe design provides touch safeprotection from live parts.Wide RangeThe extent of the range makes it possible to findthe distribution system adapted to its needs:• 5 single pole power distribution blocks UL,• 4 single pole power distribution blocks UR,• 1... More

DIN Rail and direct mounted Power-over-Ethernet injectors and switches

American Electrical, Inc. is now selling a complete line of DIN Rail and direct mounted Power-over-Ethernet injectors and switches:PoE is a hardened, industrial-grade PoE injector designed to reliably connect PoE devices in harsh environments. They feature an 802.3bt Gigabit PoE+ output which allows it to handle cutting-edge high-power and high-bandwidth devices.They were designed with durability in mind. A hardened metal case, fanless design, redundant power inputs, over-current protection, and -40°C to 65°C operating temperature range... More