Interpreting Engineering Drawings

Engineering Encyclopedia
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards
Interpreting Supplemental Drawings
Note: The source of the technical material in this volume is the Professional
Engineering Development Program (PEDP) of Engineering Services.
Warning: The material contained in this document was developed for Saudi
Aramco and is intended for the exclusive use of Saudi Aramco’s employees.
Any material contained in this document which is not already in the public
domain may not be copied, reproduced, sold, given, or disclosed to third
parties, or otherwise used in whole, or in part, without the written permission
of the Vice President, Engineering Services, Saudi Aramco.
Chapter : Electrical For additional information on this subject, contact

File Reference: EEX10003 W.A. Roussel on 874-6160
Engineering Encyclopedia Electrical
Content Page
INTERPRETING GROUND GRID PLAN AND DETAIL DRAWINGS.......................................... 1

Elements of the Ground Grid..................................................................................... 1
Spacing.......................................................................................................... 1
Depth ............................................................................................................ 2
Conductor Specifications ............................................................................... 2
Connections and Splices................................................................................. 2
Covering and Bedding Material...................................................................... 2
Ground Rod Information and Specifications .............................................................. 3
Location ........................................................................................................ 3
Rod Specifications ......................................................................................... 3
Types of Equipment Connection Details .................................................................... 3
Test Well ....................................................................................................... 3
Equipment Enclosure ..................................................................................... 4
Equal Potential Platforms and Grids............................................................... 4
Fence............................................................................................................. 4
Building Columns .......................................................................................... 4
Ground Rods ................................................................................................. 4
Cathodic Protection Components................................................................... 5
INTERPRETING LIGHTING AND RECEPTACLE PLAN DRAWINGS........................................ 6
Commonly Used Symbols.......................................................................................... 6
Fixtures ......................................................................................................... 6
Receptacles and Outlets ................................................................................. 6
Switches ........................................................................................................ 7
Panelboards ................................................................................................... 7
Informational Elements.............................................................................................. 7
Building Column Center Lines ....................................................................... 8
Significant Architectural or Physical Features................................................. 8
Major Equipment Affecting Layout................................................................ 8
Fixture and Receptacle Information................................................................ 8
Circuit Information ........................................................................................ 9
Fixture Schedules..........................................................................................10
Installation Detail Drawings ..........................................................................10

INTERPRETING ELECTRICAL SITE PLAN DRAWINGS.......................................................... 11

Types .......................................................................................................................11
Underground ................................................................................................11
Overhead ......................................................................................................11
Informational Elements.............................................................................................11
Significant Architectural or Physical Features................................................11
Other Utility Routings...................................................................................12
Overhead Circuit Routing .............................................................................12
Underground Circuit Routing........................................................................12
Manhole Locations .......................................................................................12
Sectional Views and Details ..........................................................................13
INTERPRETING ELECTRICAL MANHOLE DRAWINGS.......................................................... 14
Manhole Identification..............................................................................................14
Dimensions...............................................................................................................14
Cable Routing ..........................................................................................................14
Construction Details.................................................................................................15
INTERPRETING OVERHEAD POLE LINE SURVEY DRAWINGS ............................................ 16
Significant Architectural or Physical Features ...........................................................16
Roads ...........................................................................................................16
Rail Road Tracks ..........................................................................................16
Buildings ......................................................................................................16
Substations ...................................................................................................16
Easements.....................................................................................................17
Clearances ....................................................................................................17
Profile Drawing or Detail..........................................................................................17
Pole Information.......................................................................................................17
Numbering System........................................................................................17
Location .......................................................................................................18
Height...........................................................................................................18
Class.............................................................................................................18
Installed Equipment (Schedule).....................................................................20
Structure Detail........................................................................................................20
Conductor Data........................................................................................................20

WORK AID 1: RESOURCES USED TO INTERPRET SUPPLEMENTAL DRAWINGS............. 21

Work Aid 1A: ANSI Standard Y32.9, Graphic Symbols for
Electrical Wiring and Layout Diagrams Used in
Architecture and Building Construction ..........................................21
Work Aid 1B: An Example Set of Project Drawings (Handout 2)..........................21
GLOSSARY ................................................................................................................................... 25
ADDENDUM A: EXAMPLES OF SAUDI ARAMCO MANDATORY DRAWINGS ................... 27
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
List of Figures Page
Figure 1. Lighting and Receptacle Layout Drawing..................................................10

Figure 2. Table of Pole Classifications .....................................................................19
Figure 3. Commonly Used ANSI Standard Y32.9 Symbols......................................22

INTERPRETING GROUND GRID PLAN AND DETAIL DRAWINGS

The primary purpose of ground grid plan and detail drawings is to show the location of the
grounding conductors, ground electrodes, and ground connectors so that the contractor can
install the grounding system. These drawings are also used by maintenance personnel to provide
information for periodic testing of grounding systems. Ground grid plan and detail drawings are
drawn to scale.
Interpreting ground grid plan and detail drawings involves interpreting the following drawings
elements:
• Elements of the ground grid.

• Ground rod information and specifications.
• Equipment connection details.
These drawing elements are explained in the next three subject headings.
Elements of the Ground Grid
A substation ground grid consists of specially constructed conductors, called ground rods, that
are driven vertically into the earth and interconnected horizontal conductors, called a ground grid,
that are buried beneath the surface of the earth. The informational elements that can be read from
a ground grid drawing are:
• Spacing
• Depth
• Conductor specifications
• Connections and splices
• Covering and bedding materials
Spacing
Spacing is a specification that indicates the distance between two parallel conductors of a ground
grid. As examples, drawing EEX 100.10 specifies grid spacing of several different values ranging
from 167 centimeters to 305 centimeters. Whenever practical, ground grid conductors are
perpendicular to substation bus conductors and the centerlines of equipment.
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 1

Depth
The depth to which the horizontal conductors of a ground grid are buried is given on a ground
grid plan drawing. As an example of a depth specification, sheet 2 of drawing EEX 100.10 shows
that the grounding grid conductors are buried at a depth of 15 cm + 31 cm (essentially the same
as Aramco standard 45mm) below the finished grade.
Conductor Specifications
Conductor specifications are normally included in the drawing notes or in a bill-of-material

legend. These specifications normally include conductor construction type (bare or tin-plated,
hard or soft drawn copper, number of strands, and conductor size (AWG, MCM, or mm2).
As an example, drawing notes and the bill-of-material legend on drawing EEX 100.10 specify
ground grid conductors to be 250 MCM, 19-stand, bare copper cable. The drawing legend
specifies equipment grounding conductors to be #4/0 AWG bare stranded copper cable for fence
post, rebar, and switch equalizing grid connections. 250 MCM bare stranded copper is specified
for the transformer’s grounding connections.
Note: Saudi Aramco normally specifies soft drawn copper for ground grid conductors.
Connections and Splices
Connections and splices are represented on a ground grid plan drawing as small solid circles.
There are several types of underground connections including exothermic welds, lugs, pressure
connectors, and clamps.
Sheet 1 of drawing EEX 100.10 has symbolic representations of exothermic welds in its ground
grid plan and in its legend. Note: Saudi Aramco normally specifies the Thermite brand of
exothermic weld.
Covering and Bedding Material
It is a common practice to spread a layer of high resistivity covering or bedding material, clean
crushed rock of minimum 75 millimeter thickness or a layer of asphalt of minimum 50 millimeter
thickness, on the ground within a substation and on a small area outside of a substation. This
covering minimizes the hazards of the step voltages and touch voltages that sometimes develop
between grounded electrical equipment. The specification for covering or bedding material is
typically given in a ground grid detail drawing or in a drawing note. For example, sheet 2 of
drawing EEX 100.10 shows a six-inch minimum thickness of screened gravel in the sectional view
A-A and in the ground rod installation detail.

Ground Rod Information and Specifications

Location
The locations of ground rods are shown on a ground grid plan drawing using special symbols. As
an example, the legend of sheet 1 of drawing EEX 100.10 indicates that the symbol used to
represent a ground rod on the ground grid plan drawing is a small open circle.
Rod Specifications
The specifications (length, material, and diameter) for ground rods are shown on detail drawings
and drawing notes. As an example, specifications for ground rods are given on sheet 2 of drawing
EEX 100.10 as a drawing note and as a detail drawing entitled “TYPICAL GROUNDING ROD
INSTALLATION”.
Length -- The length of a ground rod is specified on a detail drawing or a drawing note. Note:
The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires a minimum length of eight feet for a ground rod.
Material -- The material (iron, steel, stainless steel, copper, copper-clad steel, or copper-welded
steel, pipe, electrical conduit) of a ground rod is specified on a drawing detail or a drawing note.
Diameter -- The diameter (3/8, 1/2, 5/8, 3/4, or 1) of a ground rod is specified on a
drawing detail or a drawing note.
As an example, the length, material, and ground rods are specified by a detail drawing entitled
“TYPICAL GROUNDING ROD INSTALLATION” on sheet 2 of drawing EEX 100.10 as 10¢-
0 length, copper-clad steel material, and 3/4 diameter.
Types of Equipment Connection Details
Detail drawings of equipment ground connections provide specific installation information to a

contractor. Equipment ground connections that might be illustrated in detail drawings include test
wells, metallic enclosures, equal potential platforms, chain-link fences, building columns,
exothermically welded connections, ground rods, and cathodic protection components.
Test Well
A test well is made of a short segment of ceramic pipe that is buried near the surface and encloses
the top portion of a ground rod. When enclosed in a test well, a ground rod can be disconnected
from the ground grid so that earth resistance measurements may be performed safely and
conveniently. Sheet 2 of drawing EEX 100.10 has an example detail drawing of a test well.

Equipment Enclosure
A detail drawing of a ground connection for an equipment enclosure is provided whenever a

contractor needs specific installation information. Sheet 2 of drawing EEX 100.10 has two
example detail drawings that show specific installation information for the ground connections of
power transformers.
Equal Potential Platforms and Grids
An equal potential platform is a galvanized steel grate that is installed immediately above the
cover or bedding material and near the operating handle of a high voltage isolator switch. An
equal potential grid is a tinned-copper mesh that is installed below the surface of the cover or
bedding material. An equal potential platform or grid is directly connected (bonded) to the switch
handle for the purpose of preventing a hazardous touch voltage. A ground grid plan and detail
drawing includes a detail drawing of an equal potential platform or grid whenever this equipment
is required. As an alternative, a drawing note that contains specific installation instructions for the
platform or grid might be provided.
Fence
A substation perimeter fence is represented by a broken line on the ground grid plan drawing.
Small open circles represent fence posts. Because these symbols are not standardized, they are
identified by drawing notations. A detail drawing is typically provided to instruct the contractor
on the correct installation of ground connections for the substation fence and its posts. Sheet 1 of
drawing EEX 100.10 illustrates a plan view of the substation fence and the locations of ground
connections. As an example, Sheet 2 of drawing EEX 100.10 has detail drawings of the ground
connection of a fence post and a gate.
Building Columns
When needed, a detail drawing is given to provide installation information regarding the ground
connection of a building column.
Ground Rods
When needed, a detail drawing is given to provide specific installation information for ground
rods. Sheet 2 of drawing EEX 100.10 has a detail drawing of a ground rod installation.

Cathodic Protection Components
When needed, a detail drawing and drawing notes are given to provide specific installation
information for cathodic protection components. The most common type of cathodic protection
component that is associated with a ground grid is a sacrificial electrode. The installation of a
sacrificial electrode is very similar to the installation of a ground rod.

INTERPRETING LIGHTING AND RECEPTACLE PLAN DRAWINGS

Lighting and receptacle plan drawings illustrate the types and locations of light fixtures,
receptacles, light switches, conduits, pull boxes, transformers, and lighting panelboards. These
drawings also specify wire and outlet box sizes. Lighting and receptacle plan drawings are drawn
to scale and use both special and standardized symbols. Elevation views and sectional views are
included as needed to specify the installation.
The commonly used symbols and informational elements of a lighting and receptacle plan drawing
are explained in this section.
Commonly Used Symbols
ANSI standard Y32.9, American National Standard Graphic Symbols for Electrical Wiring and
Layout Diagrams Used in Architecture and Building Construction, contains standardized
symbols and specifications for illustrating the electrical equipment of commercial buildings. Work
Aid 1A contains a selected set of standardized symbols in ANSI Y32.9.
A lighting and receptacle plan drawing has a table that shows each different symbol that is used in
the drawing along with a description and a material specification of the device that each symbol
represents.
The most frequently used symbols are explained in the next several subject headings.
Fixtures
Lighting fixtures are shown as standardized symbols. These symbols are accompanied by
alphanumeric designations that identify the circuits that supply power to the fixtures. Letter
designations identify the switches that control the fixtures.
As examples, drawing EEX 100.11 shows several lighting fixtures. Two types of lighting fixtures
are listed on the table of symbols.
• Item 1 -- Identified on the equipment schedule as a ceiling mounted fluorescent light

fixture.
• Item 8 -- Identified as an incandescent wall mounted light fixture.
Receptacles and Outlets
Receptacles and outlets are shown as standardized symbols. These symbols are accompanied by
an alphanumeric designation that identifies the circuit that supplies power to the outlet.
As examples, drawing EEX 100.11 shows several outlets. One type of outlet, item number 6
which is a straight-blade three-wire duplex outlet, is listed on the table of symbols.

Switches
The symbols S, S2, S3, and S4 represent a single pole, two pole, three-way, or four-way switch. A
letter (a, b, c, d, etc.) below or beside the S symbol identifies the circuit that the switch controls.
Drawing EEX 100.11 shows several switches:
• or S3a A three-way switch that controls circuit a.

• or S1d A single pole switch that controls circuit d.
Panelboards
Panelboards are shown on lighting and receptacle drawings as a standardized symbol. An

alphanumeric designation for the panel board is printed below the symbol. A panelboard wiring
diagram and a panelboard schedule are typically provided as separate documents. Drawing EEX
100.11 is an example of an alternative way of providing a panelboard schedule; it is given as a
detail drawing.
Item 2 of the table of symbols of drawing EEX 100.11 shows the symbol and description of a
lighting panelboard that is rated three-phase, four-wire, 208/120 volts, and has a 100 ampere main
breaker. The panelboard wiring diagram illustrates three 15 ampere single-pole feeder breakers,
three 30 ampere single-pole feeder breakers, and one three-pole feeder breaker.
Informational Elements
The informational elements of a lighting and receptacle plan drawing are:
• Building column center lines.

• Significant architectural or physical features.
• Major types of equipment affecting layout.
• Fixture and receptacle information.
• Circuit information.
• Fixture schedules.
• Installation Details.
These informational elements are explained in the following subject headings.

Building Column Center Lines
Building column center lines are normally used as references to locate lighting fixtures. Some
lighting and receptacle plan drawings have dimension lines that specify the distances between
building columns and fixtures. Other plan drawings have no dimension lines but are drawn to
scale so that the installation contractor can use an architect’s scale to locate a fixture. As an
example, drawing EEX 100.11 has only two dimension lines in its plan view. Fixtures would be
located by measuring distances using an architect’s scale.
Significant Architectural or Physical Features
Significant architectural or physical features are shown on lighting and receptacle plan drawings.
Because the lighting design engineer who creates the plan drawing must be aware of any
significant architectural or physical features, these features are shown on the lighting and
receptacle plan drawings.
As an example, drawing EEX 100.11 shows the walls and doors of the control room building.
Major Equipment Affecting Layout
Major equipment is illustrated on lighting and receptacle layout drawings in order to avoid fixture
mounting interference and to assure that the fixtures will supply light where it is required.
As an example, drawing EEX 100.11 shows one fluorescent fixture located off center, a position
that avoids interference with switchgear SG-1.
Fixture and Receptacle Information
Fixture and receptacle information is given in the table of symbols or in an equipment schedule.
Drawing EEX 100.11 has an example table of symbols.
Height -- Fixture mounting height is given in drawing notes or as information in a detail drawing.
As and example, drawing EEX 100.11 shows the height above the floor for the fluorescent
lighting fixtures in an elevation view detail drawing (sectional view A-A¢).
Type or Identification Symbol -- Fixtures and receptacles are shown on the plan drawing as
standardized symbols. All symbols that are used on a plan drawing will also be shown in the table
of symbols. The table identifies the types of fixture and mounting details (pendant mounted, wall
mounted, ceiling mounted, pole mounted, or stanchion mounted).

Watt -- Watt ratings of lamps are given as information in the table of symbols. The lighting
panelboard schedule lists watts as a product of lamp watts ratings multiplied by the number of
lamps connected on each circuit. This tabulation is given to ensure that the circuit breaker that
protects the circuit and the conductors in the circuit are not overloaded and to ensure that supply
line conductors carry balanced load currents.
For tabulation of receptacle loads on a panelboard schedule, The National Electric Code stipulates
that each normal 120 volt receptacle outlet (each single or each multiple receptacle on a single
strap) represents a minimum 180 volt-ampere load.
Associated Panelboard Circuit - Each lighting fixture and receptacle symbol on a plan drawing has an
alphanumeric designation that identifies the panelboard circuit that supplies power to the fixture
and a letter designation that identifies the switch that controls the fixture.
Circuit Information
Circuit information that is shown on a lighting and receptacle plan drawing include circuiting
lines, the number of conductors, conductor and conduit sizes, and home runs to panel boards.
Circuiting Lines - Circuiting lines are groups of short lines that are drawn at an angle across the line
that represents a conduit. The number of circuiting lines represents the number of conductors that
are pulled through the conduit. The shortest lines represent live conductors. The longest lines
represent neutral conductors. Short lines that have angled tails represent non-insulated (bare)
conductors. As examples, in sectional view B - B of drawing EEX 100.11, the one-inch conduit
that is connected to the top of the panel PBAC has within it three groups of conductors. One
group has four live conductors and one neutral conductor. A second group has one live and one
neutral conductor. A third group has one live conductor, one neutral conductor, and one bare
conductor.
Number of Conductors -- The number of conductors within a conduit is indicated on the plan
drawing by the number of circuit lines that are drawn across the line representation of the conduit.
Conductor/Conduit Size -- Conductor or conduit sizes are usually specified in drawing notes.
Drawing EEX 100.11 has notes that specify wire size as #12 AWG and conduits as 3/4”, unless
otherwise noted. If the wire size is different, it would be noted next to the circuiting lines shown
on the conduit. For example, the main lighting conduit is identified on the drawing as a 1”
conduit.
Home Runs to Panelboards -- Representations of conduits that are home runs to panelboards are
distinguished from other conduits by the addition of arrow symbols, one for each circuit that runs
to the panelboard. Each arrow symbol is accompanied by a number that identifies the circuit. As
an example, a home run is illustrated in Figure 1. In this lighting and receptacle layout drawing,
circuits 1,2,3, and 5 are shown as four arrows pointing in the direction of panelboard PH-1.

Fixture Schedules
When needed, a fixture and receptacle plan drawing will have a fixture schedule. A fixture
schedule is a list of drawing symbols and procurement specifications of every fixture that is to be
installed.
Installation Detail Drawings
Installation detail drawings illustrate information that cannot be included on the lighting and
receptacle plan drawing. As an example, drawing EEX 100.11, has a detail drawing (elevation
sectional view A - A¢) that shows the battery, battery charger, and DC panelboard.
Figure 1. Lighting and Receptacle Layout Drawing

INTERPRETING ELECTRICAL SITE PLAN DRAWINGS

Electrical site plan drawings show the entire property including the buildings sidewalks,
driveways, streets, trees, water lines, sewer lines, electrical lines, telephone lines, and other
equipment drawn in their correct locations. Site plans are drawn to scale.
Types
Underground
Underground electrical site plan drawings show the routing of underground raceways and direct-
burial cables. The raceway or cable is shown as a broken line. Small squares represent manholes.
Overhead
Overhead electrical site plan drawings show the routing of overhead conductors. The overhead
conductors are shown as continuous lines. Power poles are shown as small circles. Towers are
shown as rectangles.
The two sheets of drawing EEX 100.12 comprise an electrical site plan drawing that shows both
underground conductors and overhead conductors.
Informational Elements
The following informational elements of electrical site plan drawings are explained in the next six
subject headings:
• Significant architectural or physical features

• Other utility routings
• Overhead circuit routing
• Underground circuit routing
• Manhole locations
• Sectional views and details
Electrical site plan drawings show those significant architectural or physical features that influence
the routing of the electrical raceways or conductors. As and example, drawing EEX 100.12
shows the truck loading area and buildings.

Other Utility Routings
Other utility routings that are shown on the electrical site plan drawings include water lines, sewer
lines, drainage lines, gas lines, and telephone lines. Drawing EEX 100.12 shows the routing of
telephone lines. It is seldom necessary to show the entire route of a utility but rather only the
segments where interference with electrical equipment or electrical lines must be avoided.
Overhead Circuit Routing
Overhead circuit routings are shown as continuous lines that represent conductors, and as circles
that represent poles. An identification number is typically printed next to each pole or tower
symbol so that it can be identified on a pole schedule. As an example, sheet 2 of drawing EEX
100.12 is an elevation view of the overhead circuit that is show as a plan view on sheet 1.
Underground Circuit Routing
The way that underground circuit routing is shown on an electrical site plan drawing is explained
in the next three subheadings.
From and To Routing -- Underground circuit routings are shown as broken lines. Drawing EEX
100.12 shows an underground circuit routing from the electrical building at the substation (pull
box PB-4) to the three transformers that are located near the building’s switchgear room
(manhole MH-7).
Coordinates or Dimensions -- The locations of underground circuit components are specified either
by grid coordinates, datum lines, building column centerlines, or dimension lines. Coordinates are
shown whenever the drawing scale is too small to allow dimension lines. When an electrical site-
plan drawing uses coordinates, one location at the site, called the orientation point, is assigned
coordinates zero-zero. All other coordinates are given in relation to this orientation point.
The example drawing, EEX 100.12, uses dimension lines, building column centerlines, and datum
lines to specify the locations of underground circuit components, the substation, and the building.
Elevations -- Elevations are given either in relation to sea level or in relation to a site zero elevation
reference (site datum or plant datum). Sheet 2 of drawing EEX 100.12 shows the substation yard
grade to be -1.00 meter with reference to the plant datum. Note 3 of this drawing specifies that
the plant datum is 19.87 meters above sea level.
Manhole Locations
Manholes are shown on an electrical site plan drawing as small squares. Their physical locations
are specified by coordinates, building column centerlines, or dimension lines. On drawing EEX
100.12, manhole MH-6 is aligned with building column centerline L.

Sectional Views and Details
Sectional views and details are given to show information that will not fit on the site plan drawing.
These sectional views and details contain information that is required for equipment installation.
Drawing EEX 100.12 shows details of the three overhead transmission towers, 115 kV gang-
operated isolator switch, insulators, and overhead conductors.
Sectional views and detail drawings are typically provided for each of the following types of
equipment or information:
• Turn-ups
• Duct cross-sectional arrangements
• Duct numbering
• Duct size/material
• Concrete
• Circuit numbers or conductor data
• Surface markers

INTERPRETING ELECTRICAL MANHOLE DRAWINGS

A manhole is a component of an underground duct system that houses cable splices. A manhole
is large enough to allow an electrician to enter, pull cable, make splices, or perform tests.
Manholes are generally made of reinforced brick or concrete. Note: Aramco specifies reinforced
concrete for constructing a manhole. Manhole covers are made of steel. The recommended
minimum diameter of the manhole opening is 31_” (81 centimeters). This diameter is large
enough for a person to enter using a ladder or to pass the types of equipment that are needed for
splicing and testing. Note: Aramco Mandatory Drawing AE-036025 specifies four-way
manholes. A copy of this drawing (four sheets) is given in the Appendix of this Module.
The following elements of manhole drawings are explained in the next four subject headings:
• Manhole identification
• Dimensions
• Cable routing
• Construction details
Manhole Identification
Each manhole has an identification number that appears on its drawing and on the underground
duct routing schedule. This same number is typically marked on the manhole cover. As
examples, drawing EEX 100-7 has plan-view manhole drawings that are marked MH-5, MH-6,
and MH-7.
Dimensions
Manholes differ in size and number of ducts. A manhole drawing shows all outside dimensions,
separation distances between ducts, and inside diameters of ducts. On drawing EEX 100.7, the
plan view of MH-5 shows outside dimensions of 142 centimeters on each side and a dimension of
25 centimeters between ducts.
Cable Routing
Manhole drawings illustrate the placements (routings) of cables within each manhole. The
locations of cable supports and cable racks are also shown on manhole drawings. For example,
drawing EEX 100.7 shows a sectional view A-A that illustrates an insulated support for the low-
voltage cable that passes though the manhole. The associated plan-view drawing MH-5 shows
that these low-voltage cables are routed close to the east wall of the manhole.

Construction Details
When needed, manhole drawings will show construction details such as the type of construction
material, cast-in-place or precast, live load rating, and drainage provisions.
An example a construction detail is the detail shown within a circle on drawing EEX 100.7, sheet
2. This detail shows a conduit turn-up and includes specifications for conduit size, conduit
material, radius of bend, type of threaded coupling, and type of cable support. Other examples of
construction details are the four Aramco Mandatory drawings that are included in Addendum A
of this Module.

INTERPRETING OVERHEAD POLE LINE SURVEY DRAWINGS

An overhead pole line survey drawing is a plan view that shows the routing of overhead
transmission or distribution lines and the locations of power poles laid over a topographical map.
The following informational elements of a pole line survey drawing are explained in the next five
subject headings:
• Significant architectural or physical features

• Profile drawing or detail
• Pole information
• Structure detail
• Conductor data
Overhead pole line drawings show significant architectural or physical features such as roads,
railroad tracks, buildings, substations, easements, and clearances.
Roads
Overhead pole line drawings show all roads so that a design engineer can ensure that appropriate
clearances are established between road surfaces and line conductors. As an example, drawing
EEX 100.13 shows an overhead line crossing over a road between poles 4 and 5.
Rail Road Tracks
Overhead pole line drawings show all railroads so that a design engineer can ensure that
appropriate clearances are established between rail surfaces and line conductors.
Buildings
Overhead pole line drawings show all buildings so that a design engineer can ensure that
appropriate clearances are established between buildings and line conductors.
Substations
Overhead pole line drawings show all substations so that an engineer can design and specify the
routing of the transmission or distribution line near the substations.

Easements
Easements are the rights-of-way given to allow the use of land for the purpose of constructing an
overhead pole line. When needed, easements are marked on a pole line drawing.
Clearances
When needed, clearances between overhead lines and earth, other transmission lines, pipelines,
roadways, railroad tracks, buildings, or substations are shown on a pole line survey drawing. For
the interest of public and worker safety, minimum clearance distances are established by section 4
of Saudi Aramco standard SAES-P-107 entitled Overhead Distribution Systems and section 10 of
standard SAES-B-064 entitled Onshore and Nearshore Pipeline Safety.
Profile Drawing or Detail
A profile is sometimes supplied as a separate drawing and sometimes as a detail drawing. A

profile shows all poles (or towers) in an elevation view that is intended to allow an installation
contractor to be able to read pole heights and distances of conductors above the ground. Profile
drawings sometimes have pole identification numbers, pole classifications, and pole loadings.
Drawing EEX 100.13 has an example profile detail drawing.
Pole Information
Overhead pole line survey drawings are accompanied by other technical documents such as pole
schedules and pole-top drawings that have the following information about poles or towers:
• Number system
• Location
• Height
• Class
• Installed equipment
These informational elements are explained in the next five subject headings.
Numbering System
There are a large variety of numbering systems for poles. There are no standardized rules for the
numbering of poles except that every pole in a power distribution or transmission system must
have a unique number. Pole numbers are listed on pole schedules, appear on pole line survey
drawing as callouts, and appear on the poles in the form of metallic numbers. As an example, the
pole symbols on drawing EEX 100.13 are numbered 1 through 14.

Location
The locations of poles are illustrated on both the plan view and the profile of a pole line survey
drawing. Both views are drawn to scale so that the locations of poles can be accurately
determined using an engineer’s scale.
Height
The heights of poles are illustrated on the profile detail of a pole line survey drawing. Each pole
is drawn to scale. The vertical scale of a profile is typically different than its horizontal scale. For
example, the horizontal scale of drawing EEX 100.13 is 1 = 200¢ and the vertical scale is 1 =
40¢.
Class
The class of each pole that appears on a pole line survey drawing can be read from a pole
schedule. Poles are classified according to their material (wood, steel, concrete). Wooden poles
are additionally classified by a number 1 through 10 as described in ANSI standard O5.1. These
classification numbers are based on the pole’s diameter at a location six feet from the butt of the
pole. Figure 2 is a partial reproduction of the classification tables of ANSI O5.1. Note: Saudi
Aramco Materials System Specifications 14-SAEMS-600 states that only poles of the Douglas fir
and coastal southern yellow pine species are acceptable.
The pole schedule also has information for each pole concerning its length and class. Lengths
vary from 25 to 125 feet. Note: Aramco commonly uses poles up to 70 feet and maintains poles
in stock in lengths up to 110 feet.

Southern yellow pine, Lodgepole pine, jack pine,

Minimum Douglas fir, and western red pine, and western fir
top hemlock
Pole
length, Class circum- Minimum Resistance Minimum Resistance
ft. ference, circum- moment, lb- circum- moment, lb-
in. ference 6 ft. ft ference 6 ft. ft
from butt, in. from butt, in.
25 1 27 34.5 83,020 36.0 84,700
25 2 25 32.5 69,550 33.5 68,450
25 3 23 30.0 54,850 31.0 53,920
25 4 21 28.0 44,720 29.0 44,240
25 5 19 26.0 35,920 27.0 35,800
25 6 17 24.0 28,350 25.0 28,520
25 7 15 22.0 21,920 23.0 22,300
30 1 27 37.5 104,650 39.0 105,700

30 2 25 35.0 85,200 36.5 86,100
30 3 23 32.5 68,300 34.0 69,650
30 4 21 30.0 53,800 31.5 55,450
30 5 19 28.0 43,800 29.0 43,350
30 6 17 26.0 35,100 27.0 35,030
30 7 15 24.0 27,650 25.0 27,850
Figure 2. Table of Pole Classifications

Installed Equipment (Schedule)
The pole schedule additionally includes a list of equipment that is to be installed with each pole.
This equipment might include cross arms, insulators, pins, mounting hardware, transformers, fuse
cutouts, lightning arresters, or other types of equipment.
Structure Detail
Detail drawings of the pole structure typically accompany a pole line survey drawing. Saudi
Aramco has mandatory and typical installation drawings of pole structures. Several examples of
Saudi Aramco mandatory drawings of pole structures are given in the Addendum to this Module.
Conductor Data
The size and construction of overhead conductors are given as notes on a pole line schedule.

WORK AID 1: RESOURCES USED TO INTERPRET SUPPLEMENTAL DRAWINGS
Work Aid 1A: ANSI Standard Y32.9, Graphic Symbols for Electrical Wiring and
Layout Diagrams Used in Architecture and Building Construction
The ANSI standard Y32.9 graphic symbols that are most often seen on architectural drawings are
shown in Figures 3, 4, and 5
Work Aid 1B: An Example Set of Project Drawings (Handout 2)
For the content of Work Aid 1B, see Handout 2.

Figure 3. Commonly Used ANSI Standard Y32.9 Symbols



GLOSSARY
ANSI Y32.9 The American National Standard Institute’s Standards
publication Graphic Symbols for Electrical Wiring and Layout
Diagrams Used in Architecture and Building Construction.
cathodic protection Any one of several methods that prevent buried metallic
structures from corroding in the ground due to the electric
current that naturally flows between dissimilar metals.
clearance Clearance is the distance between an overhead conductor and
the surface of the earth, a building, any other conductor, a
roadway, a pipeline, or any other physical feature.
conduit A tubular raceway made specifically for holding wires or cables.
A conduit has a smooth interior so that wires or cables can be
pulled though it without becoming damaged.
CT Current transformer.
detail Shortened form of “detail drawing”. A detail drawing illustrates
all of the distinct parts of an electrical component that are
needed for installation.
direct burial cable Cable that can be directly buried without the need for a raceway.
equipment layout drawing An equipment layout drawing shows how the major electrical
equipment is arranged to provide the necessary physical and
electrical clearances from all other components that are located
in the vicinity.
exothermic weld A fused joint between electrical conductors that is formed by the
heat of a chemical reaction.
ground grid A system of interconnected horizontal conductors that are
buried beneath the surface of the earth.
ground grid plan A ground grid plan drawing shows the locations of the ground
conductors, ground electrodes, and ground connectors that are
part of a ground grid.
IEEE C37.2 Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineer’s Standard
number C37.2 entitled Standard Electrical Power System
Device Function Numbers.

home run A run of conduit that terminates at a distribution panel.

installation detail drawing An installation detail drawing is a drawing that provides detailed
instructions concerning the installation of a component that
cannot be included on a layout, site plan, equipment, or profile
drawing.
manhole A manhole is a component of an underground duct system that
houses cable splices. A manhole is large enough to allow an
electrician to enter.
print A print is a copy of a reproducible drawing. Note: In this
training course the words “print” and “drawing” are used
interchangeably.
raceway Any channel designed specifically for and used exclusively for
holding electrical conductors.
sacrificial electrode A metallic structure that is buried in the ground for the purpose
of causing an intentional cathodic current. This intentional
current will flow in a direction that will preserve the metallic
components of a ground grid while causing the sacrificial
electrode to dissolve.
sectional views Supplementary views or details that show additional information
that is required to communicate the intention of the designer.

ADDENDUM A: EXAMPLES OF SAUDI ARAMCO MANDATORY DRAWINGS

The following drawings are reproduced for inclusion in this Addendum.
1 Three-Phase Fused Disconnect Switch, Structure -- Armless AC-036567

Construction
2 Switch Grounding Detail AD-036133
3 Dead End Riser Pole with Fuse Disconnect AA-036121
4 Four-Way Manhole Roof Plan, four sheets AE-036025

Interpreting Engineering Drawings

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Interpreting Engineering Drawings

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Engineering Encyclopedia

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Interpreting Supplemental Drawings

Chapter : Electrical For additional information on this subject, contact

INTERPRETING GROUND GRID PLAN AND DETAIL DRAWINGS.......................................... 1

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

INTERPRETING ELECTRICAL SITE PLAN DRAWINGS.......................................................... 11

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

WORK AID 1: RESOURCES USED TO INTERPRET SUPPLEMENTAL DRAWINGS............. 21

ADDENDUM A: EXAMPLES OF SAUDI ARAMCO MANDATORY DRAWINGS ................... 27

List of Figures Page

Figure 1. Lighting and Receptacle Layout Drawing..................................................10

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

INTERPRETING GROUND GRID PLAN AND DETAIL DRAWINGS

• Elements of the ground grid.

Elements of the Ground Grid

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 1

Conductor specifications are normally included in the drawing notes or in a bill-of-material

Connections and Splices

Covering and Bedding Material

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 2

Ground Rod Information and Specifications

Types of Equipment Connection Details

Detail drawings of equipment ground connections provide specific installation information to a

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 3

A detail drawing of a ground connection for an equipment enclosure is provided whenever a

Equal Potential Platforms and Grids

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 4

Cathodic Protection Components

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 5

INTERPRETING LIGHTING AND RECEPTACLE PLAN DRAWINGS

Commonly Used Symbols

• Item 1 -- Identified on the equipment schedule as a ceiling mounted fluorescent light

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 6

Drawing EEX 100.11 shows several switches:

• or S3a A three-way switch that controls circuit a.

Panelboards are shown on lighting and receptacle drawings as a standardized symbol. An

The informational elements of a lighting and receptacle plan drawing are:

• Building column center lines.

These informational elements are explained in the following subject headings.

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 7

Building Column Center Lines

Significant Architectural or Physical Features

Major Equipment Affecting Layout

Fixture and Receptacle Information

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 8

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 9

Installation Detail Drawings

Figure 1. Lighting and Receptacle Layout Drawing

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 10

INTERPRETING ELECTRICAL SITE PLAN DRAWINGS

• Significant architectural or physical features

Significant Architectural or Physical Features

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 11

Other Utility Routings

Overhead Circuit Routing

Underground Circuit Routing

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 12

Sectional Views and Details

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 13

INTERPRETING ELECTRICAL MANHOLE DRAWINGS

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 14

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 15