We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Baz Controls

This course is all about Industrial controls topics which you need if you are starting your career as an automation and controls engineer. You will need this course if you are responsible about the process controls part in a production line. This course covers all the basics and details about controls circuits for 3 phase induction motor and how to build them from scratch. We will first start with an introduction about classic controls, then we will go to the circuit components that are used to create Industrial controls circuit, For these components, we will cover its definition, working principle and types, We will also see engaging animations for our lectures and circuits. Then we will design the most common circuits that are used in the industry and then we will simulate them; if our simulation is successful I will build it by hand wire by wire. In this course you will understand the induction motor more and its windings and terminals. We will also discuss the voltage in star and delta connection. Finally, we will try to select our power components for a project in which we will calculate the Full Load Current and based on that we will choose our component’s sizes according to IEC and NFPA Standards.

Enroll now

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction
Classic Control
Water Pump Power Circuit and Control Circuit
Components
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers the fundamentals of industrial controls, which are essential for automation and controls engineers starting their careers
Explores classic control circuits and components, which are foundational for understanding more advanced automation systems
Includes hands-on simulations using CADESIMU, allowing learners to test and validate their designs before physical implementation
Discusses IEC and NFPA standards for component sizing, which is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance in industrial settings
Requires access to CADESIMU software, which may require a separate license or subscription
Focuses on classic control methods, which may not cover the latest advancements in PLC-based or networked control systems

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Fundamentals of electrical industrial controls

According to learners, this course offers a largely positive experience for those looking to understand industrial electrical controls. Students particularly appreciate the clear explanations of complex topics and the focus on practical applications. The sections on component sizing and simulations using CADESIMU are frequently highlighted as highly useful. While the course provides a solid foundation, some reviewers suggest it is best suited for beginners or those new to the field and may lack the advanced depth needed by experienced professionals. The inclusion of practical wiring demonstrations is seen as a significant strength, helping bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.
Excellent starting point in controls.
"If you're new to industrial controls, this course is an excellent introduction."
"It provides a solid foundation for someone just starting their career in automation."
"Perfect for understanding the basics before moving on to more complex topics."
Practice circuits using CADESIMU.
"The CADESIMU simulations provided a great way to practice and test my understanding."
"Being able to simulate the circuits beforehand was very helpful."
"I appreciated the guidance on using CADESIMU, a practical industry tool."
Guidance on selecting parts (IEC/NFPA).
"The section on calculating full load current and sizing components was particularly useful for real-world projects."
"Learning how to size MCBs, contactors, and cables according to standards was invaluable."
"The component sizing part, incorporating IEC and NFPA, is a major strength."
Simplifies complex electrical concepts.
"The explanations of starters, components, and circuits are very clear and easy to follow."
"This course explained things I've struggled with for years in simple terms."
"I found the instructor's method of breaking down topics very effective."
"Concepts are explained simply, making them accessible to beginners."
Shows how to build circuits hands-on.
"The practical part of the course, where circuits are built by hand, is incredibly valuable."
"Watching the wiring step-by-step helped me understand the connections much better."
"I loved seeing the actual components being used and wired together."
"Seeing the practical examples cemented the concepts for me."
May be too basic for experienced learners.
"For experienced engineers, this course might feel a bit basic and introductory."
"I was hoping for more advanced topics or troubleshooting techniques."
"It's a great fundamental course, but doesn't delve deep into complex scenarios."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls &Motor Starters with these activities:
Review Basic Electrical Theory
Solidify your understanding of fundamental electrical concepts to better grasp the principles behind industrial controls and motor starters.
Browse courses on Ohm's Law
Show steps
  • Review definitions of voltage, current, and resistance.
  • Practice applying Ohm's Law to simple circuits.
  • Solve problems using Kirchhoff's Voltage and Current Laws.
Review 'Electrical Motor Controls' by Gary Rockis and Glen Mazur
Supplement your learning with a comprehensive textbook on electrical motor controls to gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Electrical Motor Controls'.
  • Read chapters related to motor starters and control circuits.
  • Work through the example problems in the book.
Assist other students in the discussion forums
Reinforce your understanding of the course material by helping other students with their questions and problems in the discussion forums.
Show steps
  • Regularly check the discussion forums for new questions.
  • Provide clear and helpful answers to student queries.
  • Share your insights and experiences with the course material.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Simulate Control Circuits in CADESIMU
Reinforce your understanding of control circuit design by simulating various circuits in CADESIMU.
Show steps
  • Recreate the DOL starter circuit in CADESIMU.
  • Simulate the star-delta starter circuit.
  • Design and simulate a reverse forward circuit.
  • Troubleshoot simulated circuits to identify potential issues.
Delve into 'NFPA 79: Electrical Standard for Industrial Machinery'
Familiarize yourself with industry standards for electrical safety in industrial machinery to ensure safe and compliant designs.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of NFPA 79.
  • Review sections related to motor control circuits and safety requirements.
  • Identify relevant clauses for your specific applications.
Document a Motor Control Circuit
Solidify your knowledge by creating a detailed documentation of a motor control circuit, explaining its components, operation, and applications.
Show steps
  • Choose a motor control circuit (e.g., DOL, Star-Delta).
  • Create a schematic diagram of the circuit.
  • Write a detailed explanation of how the circuit works.
  • Describe the applications of the circuit in industry.
Design a Control System for a Small Automation Task
Apply your knowledge to design a control system for a practical automation task, such as controlling a conveyor belt or a small robotic arm.
Show steps
  • Identify a small automation task.
  • Design a control circuit to automate the task.
  • Select appropriate components for the circuit.
  • Simulate the circuit to verify its functionality.

Career center

Learners who complete Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls &Motor Starters will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Industrial Electrician
An Industrial Electrician installs, maintains, and repairs electrical systems and equipment in industrial facilities. This role requires a strong understanding of electrical codes, safety procedures, and industrial control systems. A course on Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls & Motor Starters provides essential knowledge for Industrial Electricians. The course's coverage of control circuits for three-phase induction motors is directly applicable to tasks such as wiring motor starters and troubleshooting control panels. The practical aspects of the course, such as hand-wiring circuits and following industry standards, strengthens the skills that are critical for any electrician working in the field. The safety procedures taught would be useful.
Process Control Engineer
A Process Control Engineer designs and implements control systems for industrial processes, ensuring efficient and safe operation. This role requires a deep understanding of control theory, instrumentation, and automation technologies. A course on Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls & Motor Starters is useful for Process Control Engineers. This course covers all the basics and details about control circuits for three-phase induction motors, which can help an engineer build control circuits from scratch. Understanding components, their working principles, and types is benefiical. Learning about industry-standard simulations can also be very helpful.
Automation Engineer
An Automation Engineer designs, develops, and implements automated systems to improve efficiency and productivity in various industries. This career involves creating control systems for machinery and processes, often using programmable logic controllers and other industrial control devices. A course on Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls & Motor Starters helps aspiring automation engineers build a foundation in understanding control circuits for three-phase induction motors and how to construct them from scratch. This course may be particularly useful with the process controls. Learning about circuit components, their working principles, and different types enhances one's proficiency in designing effective automation solutions. The coverage of design, simulation and hand-wiring industrial circuits is especially relevant. The course's focus on industry standards like IEC and NFPA is also very helpful for an aspiring automation engineer.
Controls Technician
A Controls Technician installs, maintains, and repairs control systems and instrumentation in industrial settings. This role requires a strong understanding of electrical circuits, control logic, and troubleshooting techniques. A course on Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls & Motor Starters helps controls technicians better understand the basics and details about control circuits for three-phase induction motors. The course's coverage of common industrial circuits and their components is beneficial for technicians working with industrial control panels and machinery. The practical aspects of the course, such as hand-wiring circuits and simulating them, enhances the hands-on skills that are critical for a Controls Technician's success. The focus on industry standards and motor windings is also a plus.
Maintenance Technician
A Maintenance Technician maintains and repairs machinery and equipment in industrial facilities. This role requires a broad understanding of electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems. A course on Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls & Motor Starters helps maintenance technicians build a foundation in industrial control systems. The course's coverage of control circuits for three-phase induction motors can help technicians better understand the electrical aspects of industrial equipment. The practical aspects of the course, such as hand-wiring circuits and troubleshooting, strengthens the hands-on skills that are critical for a Maintenance Technician's success. This course is all about Industrial controls topics which you need if you are starting your career.
Instrumentation Engineer
An Instrumentation Engineer designs, installs, and maintains instruments and control systems used in industrial processes. This role requires a strong understanding of sensors, transmitters, and control loops. A course on Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls & Motor Starters is useful for instrumentation engineers. This course covers all the basics and details about control circuits for three-phase induction motors. The course's focus on industrial standards and motor windings can be particularly helpful for instrumentation engineers working on industrial automation systems. Building these circuits from scratch may be useful.
Electrical Engineer
An Electrical Engineer designs, develops, and tests electrical equipment and systems. In industrial settings, this often involves working with motor controls, power distribution, and automation systems. A course on Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls & Motor Starters helps electrical engineers to start their career. The course's coverage of control circuits for three-phase induction motors helps build a foundation in industrial automation. The course's focus on circuit components, industry standards, and practical circuit design is particularly relevant for electrical engineers working in manufacturing and industrial automation. The discussion of voltage behaviors is also quite important.
Field Service Engineer
A Field Service Engineer installs, troubleshoots, and repairs equipment at customer sites. This role requires a strong understanding of electrical and mechanical systems, as well as excellent customer service skills. A course on Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls & Motor Starters helps field service engineers understand the electrical and control systems they will encounter in the field. The course's coverage of control circuits for three-phase induction motors may be particularly relevant. The practical aspects of the course, such as hand-wiring circuits and troubleshooting, enhances the hands-on skills that are critical for a Field Service Engineer's success. The motor sizing section is also very useful.
Mechatronics Engineer
A Mechatronics Engineer integrates mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering principles to design and develop automated systems. This role requires knowledge of control systems, sensors, and actuators. A course on Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls & Motor Starters may be particularly useful for someone in this role. The course's coverage of control circuits for three-phase induction motors helps build a foundation in industrial automation. The course's focus on circuit components, industry standards, and practical circuit design is particularly relevant for integrating electrical controls into mechanical systems. The water pump power circuit and control circuit topics can be particularly helpful.
Manufacturing Engineer
A Manufacturing Engineer improves manufacturing processes and systems to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. This role often requires knowledge of automation, controls, and electrical systems. A course on Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls & Motor Starters may be useful for manufacturing engineers. The course's coverage of control circuits for three-phase induction motors can help the engineer understand the electrical aspects of manufacturing equipment. The course's focus on industrial standards and motor windings may be beneficial for engineers working to optimize production lines and automation systems. Furthermore, the discussion of how to select power components would also be useful.
Design Engineer
A Design Engineer creates technical drawings and specifications for electrical and mechanical systems. In the industrial sector, this often involves designing control panels and automation systems. A course on Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls & Motor Starters may be useful to design engineers. The course's coverage of control circuits for three-phase induction motors can help engineers to understand the design principles behind industrial control systems. The focus on industry standards, motor windings, and voltage control is highly relevant for design engineers working on industrial projects. The ability to design, simulate and hand-wire would also be useful.
Power Systems Engineer
A Power Systems Engineer designs, develops, and maintains electrical power systems for industrial and commercial facilities. This role requires a strong understanding of power distribution, protection, and control systems. A course on Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls & Motor Starters helps power systems engineers build a foundation in industrial motor control systems. The course's coverage of control circuits for three-phase induction motors can help engineers to understand the electrical aspects of motor-driven equipment. The focus on industry standards and motor windings is relevant for engineers working on industrial power systems. It is a very important course.
Robotics Engineer
A Robotics Engineer designs, builds, and programs robots for various applications, including manufacturing, healthcare, and exploration. This role requires a strong understanding of control systems, automation, and programming. A course on Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls & Motor Starters may be useful for robotics engineers. The course's coverage of control circuits for three-phase induction motors helps build a foundation in industrial automation. The course's focus on circuit components and practical circuit design may be beneficial for those working on the electrical aspects of robotics. The topics of star delta starters and the reverse forward circuits can be useful.
Project Engineer
A Project Engineer manages engineering projects from conception to completion, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget. This role requires a broad understanding of engineering principles, project management techniques, and communication skills. A course on Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls & Motor Starters may be particularly useful for Project Engineers. The course's coverage of control circuits for three-phase induction motors helps engineers understand the electrical aspects of industrial projects. The focus on industry standards and practical circuit design principles is relevant for engineers. The section on how to select power components can save a great deal of time.
System Integrator
A System Integrator combines different subsystems or components into a single system to improve functionality and efficiency. This role requires a broad understanding of various engineering disciplines, including electrical, mechanical, and software engineering. A course on Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls & Motor Starters may be useful for System Integrators. The course's coverage of control circuits for three-phase induction motors helps engineers build a solid foundation in industrial control systems. The course's focus on industry standards and practical circuit design principles may be useful for integrating electrical controls into larger systems. Furthermore, this understanding of industry standards could be beneficial.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Fundamentals, Electrical Industrial Controls &Motor Starters.
Comprehensive guide to electrical motor controls, covering everything from basic principles to advanced applications. It serves as an excellent reference for understanding the components, circuits, and design considerations discussed in the course. The book provides detailed explanations and practical examples, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced professionals. It is commonly used as a textbook in many electrical engineering and industrial technology programs.
NFPA 79 is the electrical standard for industrial machinery. It provides comprehensive safety guidelines for the design, construction, installation, and operation of electrical equipment used in industrial machinery. While not a textbook, it crucial reference for anyone working with industrial controls, ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Familiarity with NFPA 79 is essential for safe and reliable operation of industrial machinery.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser