Electrical DrawingsElectrical drawings are used for both residential and commercial construction projects. They provide the client, the builder and the permit department the complete power layout for the job. They are submitted with the construction drawings for a building permit application. In some cases, they are submitted separately to obtain an electrical permit. They are part of the package for pricing the project for the client. The drawings must comply with the National Electric Code. They must also comply with the National Building Code and all Provincial and local codes.
Typically, the engineer’s drawings will include a power plan and a reflected ceiling plan.
On smaller projects, they are on the same drawing sheet.
In addition to the plans, there are legends and notes specific to the project.
For large or complex designs, the plans are on separate sheets. Additional drawing sheet are usually required to cover all aspects of the layout.
Power Plan The power plan is a drawing of the floor plan showing all required outlets and any special systems. The designer or architect will often draw a power plan and dimension these locations. This is important to the engineer, especially, if the connection must be at a specific location or height. Or if it is floor mounted or mounted within a fixture. If a power plan is not provided then the engineer draws it. This is typical for smaller projects. In either case, the engineer uses the floor plan provided to create his/ her drawing. It is an engineering drawing separate from the architectural set. The engineer draws in the circuiting for every power receptacle. The circuit tie to the electrical panel is noted. A legend provides a description for each symbol used on the plan. Conduit size, special power specifications and notes are included. A project with special equipment or systems requires additional legends, wiring schedules or diagrams.
The engineer uses this drawing to create his/ her electrical drawing for the RCP. It is an engineering drawing separate from the architectural set. The engineer’s drawing shows the circuiting and switching for each item on the ceiling.
The circuit connection to the panel is labeled. Conduit size, when required, legends, general and/ or specific notes are provided on this drawing by the engineer.
The engineer must provide a load summary. This is the total connected load (amps/ watts) for all items shown on the power and RCP drawings. This ensures the main service is adequate. Also, many cities/ towns have energy conservation regulations, regarding electrical loads. The engineer’s drawings must abide by all codes and bylaws pertaining to the city, town or province where the project is located.
Other information, depending on the project: Concept and designs are the first stage of any project.
When established, the next stage is construction drawings.
Once a floor plan and reflected ceiling plan are complete they are passed to the engineer to produce the electrical drawings. The engineer’s drawings become part of the construction drawing set.
Construction Drawings Before Electrical Drawings
The following are examples of electrical drawings.
Cut Sheet Spec. Enlarged 
|
