Basic Electrical Engineering | PYQs | 2023| beu

Q.1 Answer the following questions:


(a) If 20, 30 and 50 ohms are connected in delta connection, then what are its equivalent values (in ohms) in star connections?

(i) 6, 10, 10
(ii) 6, 10, 5
(iii) 15, 15, 10
(iv) 6, 15, 15

Answer

 (iv) 6, 15, 15


(b) The time constant of RC circuit is ?

(i) 1/RC
(ii) R/C
(iii) 1/(RC²)
(iv) RC

Answer

(iv) RC
Explanation: The time constant (τ \tau τ) of an RC circuit is the product of resistance (R R R) and capacitance (C C C), i.e., τ=R⋅C \tau = R \cdot C τ=R⋅C, representing the time to charge to ~63% of the maximum voltage.


(c) The maximum power will be transferred from a voltage source to load when

(i) the source impedance is half of the load impedance
(ii) the source impedance is equal to the load impedance
(iii) the source impedance is twice that of the load impedance
(iv) the source impedance and load impedance both must be zero

Answer

(ii) the source impedance is equal to the load impedance
Explanation:
Maximum power transfer occurs when the load impedance matches the source impedance (for complex impedances, magnitude matching), based on the maximum power transfer theorem.


(d) Draw the V-I characteristics of ideal and practical current source and voltage source.

Answer


(e) Define form factor and peak factor.

Answer

Form Factor
Form factor is the ratio of the RMS (Root Mean Square) value to the average value of an alternating quantity. $$\text{Form Factor} = \frac{\text{RMS Value}}{\text{Average Value}}$$

Peak Factor
Peak factor is the ratio of the maximum (peak) value to the RMS value of an alternating quantity. $$\text{Peak Factor} = \frac{\text{Maximum Value}}{\text{RMS Value}}$$


(f) Write the statement of KVL and KCL.

Answer
Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law (KVL)

According to Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law, in any closed circuit or mesh, the algebraic sum of all the EMFs and voltage drops will be zero.

Kirchhoff’s Current Law (KCL)

According to Kirchhoff’s Current Law, the algebraic sum of all the currents meeting at a point or a junction will be zero.


(g) How do hysteresis and eddy current loss depend on frequency?

Answer

  • Hysteresis Loss: Proportional to frequency ($ P_h \propto f $) because it depends on the number of magnetization cycles per second in the core material.
  • Eddy Current Loss: Proportional to the square of frequency ($P_e \propto f^2 $) because it depends on the rate of change of magnetic flux, which increases with frequency.


(h) Explain generation of rotating magnetic field in electrical machine.

Answer
  • When a 3-phase AC supply is given to stator windings placed 120° apart,
  • It creates three magnetic fields, 120° out of phase.
  • Their combination produces a rotating magnetic field in the air gap.
  • This RMF rotates at synchronous speed.


(i) Differentiate among neutral, grounding and earthing.

Answer
  • Neutral: Return path for current in AC system.
  • Grounding: Connecting system parts to ground for safety (used in live circuits).
  • Earthing: Connecting metallic body of equipment to earth to prevent shock.


(j) Relate flux, reluctance and permeability.

Answer

  • Magnetic Flux: $\phi = \frac{\text{MMF}}{\text{Reluctance}} = \frac{N I}{\mathcal{R}}$
  • Reluctance $\mathcal{R} = \frac{l}{\mu A}$
    Where μ = permeability, A = area, l = length
  • Higher permeability → Lower reluctance → More flux

Q.2 (a) Explain maximum power transfer theorem. Find the value of RL​ at which maximum power is transferred to the load in the given circuit. Also find the maximum power transferred.

Answer

According to the maximum power transfer theorem, the maximum power flow through load resistor RL can be achieved when the load resistor equals the thevenin’s equivalent resistance of the circuit.

Mathematical Condition:

RL = Rth
Where:

$R_{th}$​ = Thevenin (or internal) resistance

$R_L$​ = Load resistance

Maximum Power Transferred

If the source voltage is $V_{th}$​ (Thevenin equivalent voltage), then: $$P_{max} = \frac{V_{th}^2}{4R_{th}}$$


(b) Explain and discuss the difference between ideal and practical voltage and current source. Also explain unilateral and bilateral elements with suitable examples.

Answer
1. Voltage Source

Ideal Voltage Source

  • Maintains a constant voltage across its terminals regardless of the load current.
  • Has zero internal resistance.
  • Example: A theoretical battery with no drop under load.

Practical Voltage Source

  • Maintains nearly constant voltage but has some internal resistance.
  • Voltage slightly drops when load increases.
  • Example: Real batteries, DC generators.
2. Current Source

Ideal Current Source

  • Delivers a constant current regardless of the load resistance.
  • Has infinite internal resistance.
  • Example: Theoretical current source used in circuit analysis.

Practical Current Source

  • Tries to deliver constant current but changes slightly with load.
  • Has very high internal resistance.
  • Example: Current-regulated power supplies.
3. Unilateral Element
  • Electrical behavior changes with direction of current or voltage.
  • Allows current in only one direction.
  • Example: Diode, SCR.
4. Bilateral Element
  • Electrical behavior is the same in both directions of current.
  • Obeys Ohm’s Law in both directions.
  • Example: Resistor, capacitor, inductor (in linear form).

Q.3 (a) Compute the current in the 8Ω resistor in the given circuit using Superposition Theorem.


(b) State and explain Thevenin’s Theorem.

Answer

Thevenin’s Theorem states that:
Any linear, bilateral DC network with voltage/current sources and resistors can be replaced by an equivalent circuit consisting of a single voltage source VthV_{th} in series with a resistance RthR_{th}, connected across the load.

Explanation
To apply Thevenin’s Theorem:

  1. Remove the load resistor $R_L$ from the circuit.
  2. Find the open-circuit voltage across the load terminals. This is the Thevenin voltage VthV_{th}.
  3. Replace all independent voltage sources with short circuits and current sources with open circuits. Then find the equivalent resistance across the open terminals. This is RthR_{th}.
  4. Draw the Thevenin equivalent circuit: a voltage source $V_{th}$ in series with resistance $R_{th}$, connected to the load $R_L$.


(c) Using Thevenin’s equivalent circuit, find the current through the 6 ohm resistor in the given circuit.

Answer


Q.4 (a) A series R-L-C circuit having a resistance of 50 Ω, an inductance of 500 mH and a capacitance of 400 μF, is energized from a 50 Hz, 230 V, AC supply. Find the:

(i) Resonant frequency of the circuit
(ii) Peak current drawn by the circuit at 50 Hz
(iii) Peak current drawn by the circuit at resonant frequency

Answer

(b) A coil of power factor 0.8 is connected in series with a 110 μF capacitor. The supply frequency is 50 Hz. The potential drop across the coil is found to be equal to the potential drop across the capacitor. Calculate the resistance and inductance of the coil.

Answer


Q.5 (a) Compare electric and magnetic circuits, clearly stating similarities and dissimilarities between them. State five applications of magnetic circuit in engineering field.

Answer
Similarities Between Electric and Magnetic Circuits
Electric CircuitMagnetic Circuit
Voltage (V) is the driving forceMagnetomotive Force (MMF) is the driving force
Electric current (I) flows through a conductorMagnetic flux (𝜙) flows through a magnetic material
Resistance (R) opposes the flow of currentReluctance (𝓡) opposes the flow of magnetic flux
Follows Ohm’s Law: I=VRI = \frac{V}{R}I=RV​Follows Magnetic Ohm’s Law: ϕ=MMFR\phi = \frac{MMF}{\mathcal{R}}ϕ=RMMF​
Energy is stored in capacitors or inductorsEnergy is stored in the magnetic field
Dissimilarities Between Electric and Magnetic Circuits
Electric CircuitMagnetic Circuit
Uses electrical conductors like copper wiresUses magnetic materials like iron or steel
Power is lost as heat due to I²R lossPower is lost as hysteresis and eddy current losses
Current is a real flow of electronsMagnetic flux is not a real flow, only an effect
Unit of current is Ampere (A)Unit of flux is Weber (Wb)
Insulation is required to prevent electric shockNo insulation is required
Applications of Magnetic Circuits
  1. Transformers
  2. Electric motors
  3. Generators
  4. Electromagnets (relays, contactors, lifting devices)
  5. Inductors used in electronic circuits


(b) Derive the relationship between line voltage and phase voltage, line current and phase current for a 3-phase delta-connected system.

Answer

Q.6 (a) What is eddy-current loss? What are the undesirable effects of eddy currents? How can they be minimized? Mention some applications of eddy-currents.

Answer

Eddy-Current Loss
Eddy currents are circulating currents induced in the core material of electrical machines when exposed to a changing magnetic field. These currents cause power loss in the form of heat, known as eddy-current loss.

Undesirable Effects of Eddy Currents

  • Unwanted heat generation in the core
  • Decrease in efficiency of machines like transformers and motors
  • Possible damage to insulation due to overheating
  • Increased energy consumption

Methods to Minimize Eddy-Current Loss

  • Use laminated core instead of solid iron
  • Each lamination is insulated to restrict the flow of eddy currents
  • Use high-resistivity materials like silicon steel in the core

Applications of Eddy Currents

  • Induction heating for cooking and industrial processes
  • Electromagnetic braking in trains and elevators
  • Metal detectors and eddy-current testing for crack detection
  • Speedometers and energy meters in electric vehicles


(b) An iron ring of cross-sectional area 5 cm² is wound with a wire of 120 turns and has a cut of 3 mm. Calculate the magnetizing current required to produce a flux of 0.3 mWb, if mean length of magnetic path is 25 cm and relative permeability of iron is 650.

Answer


Q.7 (a) Define voltage regulation of a transformer and derive conditions for (i) zero regulation and (ii) maximum regulation. Also draw the curve of variation of voltage regulation with power factor.

Answer

Voltage Regulation Definition:

Voltage regulation of a transformer is the change in secondary voltage from no-load to full-load, expressed as a percentage of full-load voltage (keeping primary voltage constant).

$$
\text{Voltage Regulation (\%)} = \frac{V_{NL} – V_{FL}}{V_{FL}} \times 100
$$

Approximate Voltage Regulation Formula:

When the load is at an angle θ (power factor angle), the voltage regulation is approximately:

$$
\text{Voltage Regulation} = \frac{I R_{eq} \cos\theta \pm I X_{eq} \sin\theta}{V_{FL}} \times 100
$$

(Use + for lagging power factor and for leading power factor)

(i) Condition for Zero Voltage Regulation:

For zero voltage regulation:

$$
I R_{eq} \cos\theta = I X_{eq} \sin\theta
$$

Dividing both sides by I:

$$
R_{eq} \cos\theta = X_{eq} \sin\theta
$$

So,

$$
\tan\theta = \frac{R_{eq}}{X_{eq}}
$$

This happens at a leading power factor.

(ii) Condition for Maximum Voltage Regulation:

Differentiate the voltage regulation expression with respect to θ and set derivative to zero:

For maximum voltage regulation:

$$
\tan\theta = \frac{X_{eq}}{R_{eq}}
$$

This occurs at a lagging power factor.

(b) Derive an expression for the induced e.m.f. of a transformer. A 3000/200 V, 50 Hz, single-phase transformer is built on a core having an effective cross-sectional area of 150 cm² and has 80 turns in the low-voltage winding. Calculate: (i) the value of the maximum flux density in the core; (ii) the number of turns in the high-voltage winding.

Answer

Derivation of Induced EMF in a Transformer:

Let,

  • $N$ = Number of turns in the winding
  • $\phi_m$ = Maximum magnetic flux in the core (Wb)
  • $f$ = Frequency of supply (Hz)

According to Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction:

$$
e(t) = N \frac{d\phi}{dt}
$$

If the flux is sinusoidal,

$$
\phi(t) = \phi_m \sin(\omega t)
$$

Then,

$$
\frac{d\phi}{dt} = \omega \phi_m \cos(\omega t)
$$

So, the instantaneous emf is:

$$
e(t) = N \omega \phi_m \cos(\omega t)
$$

The RMS value of emf is given by:

$$
E = 4.44 f N \phi_m
$$

Where:

  • $E$ = RMS value of induced emf (V)
  • $f$ = frequency in Hz
  • $N$ = number of turns
  • $\phi_m$ = maximum magnetic flux in Weber

Q.8 Describe with neat sketches the construction of a 3-phase induction motor. Explain the principle of operation of a 3-phase induction motor. What is meant by slip in an induction motor?

Answer
Construction
three Phase Induction Motor Construction -  BEE 2024 BEU PYQ Solution

three-phase induction motor consists of several key components that work together to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy. The main parts are:

1. Yoke
  • The yoke is the outer frame of the motor, providing mechanical support to internal components.
  • Made of cast iron or steel to ensure high magnetic permeability and protect the motor from external damage.
  • Provides a low reluctance path for the magnetic field, ensuring efficient operation.
2. Rotor (Armature)
  • Contains coils (armature winding) where current flows.
  • Rotates within the magnetic field generated by the stator.
  • Converts electrical energy into mechanical (rotational) energy.
  • Typically made of laminated steel to reduce eddy current losses.
3. Commutator
  • Reverses the direction of current flow in the armature winding.
  • Ensures unidirectional torque production in the motor.
  • Made of copper segments, insulated from each other.
  • Wears over time due to brush contact, requiring periodic maintenance.
4. Brushes
  • Conduct current between the external circuit and the rotating commutator.
  • Usually made of carbon for good conductivity and low wear.
  • Require replacement as they wear out over time.
  • Minimize friction while maintaining good electrical contact.
5. Field Windings
  • Wound around the poles of the stator to create a magnetic field.
  • Can be series-wound, shunt-wound, or compound-wound, depending on motor design.
  • The strength of the magnetic field determines the torque produced.
  • Consumes electrical power to generate the magnetic field.
6. Shaft
  • Transmits the mechanical energy generated by the rotor to an external load.
  • Made of steel or other durable materials to handle torque.
  • Supports rotational movement with minimal deflection.
Principle of Operation
  • When 3-phase AC supply is given to the stator winding, it produces a rotating magnetic field (RMF).
  • This RMF cuts the rotor conductors and induces an EMF in them (according to Faraday’s law).
  • Since the rotor conductors form a closed circuit, current flows.
  • The interaction between the rotor current and RMF produces torque (as per Lorentz force law).
  • This torque causes the rotor to rotate in the same direction as the RMF.
Slip in an Induction Motor:
  • The rotor never rotates at the same speed as the stator’s magnetic field.
  • The difference in speed is called slip.

Formula: $$s = \frac{N_s – N_r}{N_s}$$

Where:

  • $s$ = slip (unitless or %)
  • $N_s$​ = synchronous speed
  • $N_r$​ = rotor speed

At full load, slip is usually between 2% to 6%.


Write short notes on any two of the following:

(a) Components of LT Switchgear
(b) Necessity and Types of Earthing
(c) Working of MCB & ELCB
(d) Speed Control of DC Motor

Remarks : not in new syllabus


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