Electric current
The Illustrated Guide to Electrical Building Services, Third Edition (BG 32/2014), by David Bleicher & Peter Tse, published by BSRIA in 2014, states; ‘An electric current is a flow of charged particles. In electrical systems in buildings, the charged particles are normally electrons, flowing in conductors such as cables. In order for a current to flow, a voltage must be applied and a complete electric circuit must exist.
‘Current is measured in amperes – normally shortened to amps or A. One amp of electric current equates to 6.25 million million million (6.25 × 10^18) electrons moving past a point in one second. The safe current carrying capacity of cables is generally measured in amps, and hence so are ratings of circuit protection devices, for example a 13 A fuse.’
--BSRIA
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Cut electricity bills to power growth
Coalition sends joint letter to the Chancellor.
Gasholders: a history in pictures. Book review.
Recognition, influence and growth
SocEnv identifies three strategic pillars in new strategy to 2045.
Discover the future of roofing, cladding and insulation.
New guidance for professional practice, cultural change and regulation in social housing.
The heritage of nuclear and conventional power stations.
New measures to stop people being ripped off
Government to protect families from cowboy builders and aggressive bailiffs.
New Futurebuild showcase brings an innovation-first approach.
National Planning Policy Framework
Understanding the 2026 changes.
ECA's public affairs priorities
Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.
Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.
Where performance meets practice
The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.