What does the term "overload" refer to in electrical systems?

The term "overload" in electrical systems specifically refers to the state where the electrical load exceeds the rated capacity of the equipment. This situation can lead to overheating, damage to electrical components, or even fire hazards due to the excessive current flowing through the system. Equipment such as circuit breakers, transformers, and motors have specific ratings for the amount of current they can safely handle. When the load surpasses this limit, it creates a condition where the equipment cannot function safely, leading to potential failure.

Understanding overload is crucial for maintaining safety and reliability in electrical systems, which is why proper load calculations and adherence to equipment ratings are essential in electrical design and installation.