Circuit protection, generator sizing, transformer ratings and industrial-plant load studies can involve dozens of complex calculations. Electrical Calculations And Guidelines For Generating Stations And Industrial Plants by Thomas E. Baker distils 132 essential computations into clear, step-by-step procedures—backed by real-world insights from Southern California Edison. The 2nd Edition (CRC Press, 2018) updates every chapter, simplifies the math and consolidates all the theory and guidelines modern electrical engineers and technicians need .
Table of Contents
Book at a Glance
| Title | Electrical Calculations And Guidelines For Generating Stations And Industrial Plants |
| Author | Thomas E. Baker |
| Edition / Year | 2nd Edition • January 16, 2018 |
| Publisher | CRC Press |
| Length | 394 pages |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1498769389 |
| Format | Hardcover & eBook |
| Typical Price | US $198 (new); US $159 (used) |
| Audience | Electrical engineers, technicians, relay-system specialists, plant-maintenance teams |
Why This Book Matters
- 132 critical calculations—from fault-current and short-circuit analyses to transformer loading and bus-duct ratings—are presented in worked-example form for generating stations and large industrial plants .
- Math simplified, theory emphasized—the 2nd Edition refines formula derivations and consolidates conventions, making even advanced topics accessible .
- Built on real-world practice—Baker’s 36 years at Southern California Edison inform practical tips on protection-system oversight, maintenance planning and betterment projects .
- Solid theoretical foundation—begins with a concise refresher of basic electrical phenomena before diving into per-unit systems, sequence networks and protection guidelines .
Chapter Highlights
While the book doesn’t list a traditional “table of contents” online, its 132 step-by-step calculations span the following key areas:
- Basic Electrical Review – Single-phase and three-phase fundamentals, per-unit conventions.
- Fault-Current & Short-Circuit Analysis – Symmetrical component methods and k²t sizing.
- Protection Device Guidelines – Relay settings, fuse and circuit-breaker coordination.
- Generator & Transformer Calculations – Loading, voltage regulation, inrush currents.
- Industrial Plant Load Studies – Motor-starting currents, bus-duct and cable ampacity.
- Grounding & Earthing – Sizing ground conductors, earth-fault considerations.
- Power-Factor & Harmonics – Capacitor bank sizing, harmonic-filter design.
- Appendices & Formula Sheets – Quick-reference tables for resistivity, constants and unit conversions.
Key Strengths
- Practical orientation—every calculation mirrors real-world scenarios in generating stations, nuclear plants, refineries and mills.
- Expert editorial—clear prose eschews academic jargon, focusing instead on “how” and “why” to apply each formula.
- Self-contained reference—you won’t need multiple handbooks: theory, examples and guidelines live under one cover.
- Author credibility—Baker’s consulting work across 35 000 MW of generating capacity underpins every recommendation.
Limitations
| Limitation | Impact | Work-around |
|---|---|---|
| High price point | May strain smaller shop budgets | Consider institutional or library access, or used copies |
| Dense for novices | Jumping straight into advanced calcs can overwhelm new graduates | Pair with a foundational circuit-theory text |
| US-centric codes | References ANSI/IEEE norms—may differ slightly from IEC standards | Cross-check with local IEC or EN guidelines |
Who Should Read This Book
- Protection & relay engineers—get fast access to setting calculations and coordination charts.
- Plant-maintenance teams—speed up fault analysis and equipment-rating checks.
- Consultants & designers—save time hunting disparate references for generating-station math.
- Graduate-level students—bridge theory and practice with real-world examples.
How It Compares
| Feature | Baker (2018) | Elements of Electrical Power Station Design (Deshpande, 2009) | Modern Power Station Practice (Beach, 1993) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calculation count | 132 worked calcs | Chapter-based design methods | Narrative with worked examples |
| Practical focus | Industrial & generating stations | Design principles | Equipment practice & theory |
| Edition recency | 2nd Ed (2018) | 1st Ed (2009) | 3rd Ed (1993) |
| Best for | Field-engineers & technicians | Academic design projects | Broad power-practice overview |
FAQ
Q: How many calculations does the book cover?
A: It presents 132 critical calculations—covering fault currents, protection settings, generator & transformer ratings, motor-starting studies and more
Q: Is this suitable for beginners?
A: It assumes working knowledge of circuit theory; absolute beginners may need a refresher text before tackling the industrial-scale examples.
Q: Are software or simulation files included?
A: No—this edition focuses on hand-calculated methods. Many readers adapt the steps to Excel or MATLAB for automated workflows.
Q: Where can I buy it?
A: Available new from CRC Press and major retailers (ISBN 9781498769389), and used for roughly US $159–$180.
