An electric power tool is working intermittently. From the list below of possible problems, select the
most likely correct choices.
- Power cord is frayed
- Brushes are worn
- Armature is bad
- Switch is faulty
- Outlet is blown
1, 2 and 5
2, 4 and 5
1, 2, 3 and 4
1, 3 and 4
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is 1, 2, 3, and 4.
Explanation:
An electric power tool working intermittently suggests that there is an issue in the electrical or mechanical system that is causing inconsistent operation. Let’s break down each of the possible problems and their implications:
- Power Cord is Frayed:
- Reasoning: A frayed or damaged power cord can cause intermittent power supply issues. When the wires inside the cord are exposed or broken, the tool might receive power only intermittently or not at all, depending on how the cord is positioned or how the wires inside the cord make contact. This is a common cause of power tools malfunctioning intermittently.
- Brushes Are Worn:
- Reasoning: Power tools with electric motors often use carbon brushes to conduct electricity between the stationary and rotating parts. Over time, these brushes wear out and may fail to maintain a proper connection, leading to intermittent operation. Worn brushes can cause the tool to start and stop unpredictably, especially under load.
- Armature is Bad:
- Reasoning: The armature is a critical part of the motor that helps convert electrical energy into mechanical motion. If the armature is damaged or worn (for example, due to overheating or wear on the windings), it can cause the motor to stop working intermittently. This is a more severe problem that could completely disrupt the tool’s operation, causing it to cut in and out.
- Switch is Faulty:
- Reasoning: The switch controls the power flow to the motor, and if the switch is faulty, it could result in an intermittent connection. The switch might be loose, worn out, or have internal contacts that do not maintain a stable connection, leading to the tool turning on and off erratically.
- Outlet is Blown:
- Reasoning: A blown outlet or faulty power source would cause the tool not to work at all or stop entirely, but it would not typically result in intermittent operation. If the outlet was truly blown, the tool would not work until the outlet was fixed. Therefore, this is less likely to be the cause of the issue.
Conclusion:
The most likely causes of intermittent operation are issues with the power cord, brushes, armature, or switch. Hence, the correct answer is 1, 2, 3, and 4.