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Unlock your guides13.1 Power distribution system components
2 min read•august 9, 2024
Power distribution systems are the unsung heroes of our electrical world. They take the high-voltage electricity from power plants and deliver it safely to our homes and businesses. This complex network involves , , , and protective equipment.
At the local level, distribution networks step down voltage for everyday use. They use a mix of overhead and underground lines, along with specialized equipment like and . These components work together to keep our lights on and appliances humming.
Power Transmission Components
Transformers and Transmission Lines
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HVDC Transmission System - EGM Heritage View original
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15.6 Transformers – University Physics Volume 2 View original
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- Transformers modify voltage levels between generation and distribution points
- increase voltage for long-distance transmission, reducing power losses
- decrease voltage for local distribution networks
- Transmission lines carry high-voltage electricity over long distances
- Overhead lines use suspended conductors on towers or poles
- Underground cables provide alternative in urban or sensitive areas
- (HVDC) transmission offers advantages for very long distances or submarine connections
Substations and Circuit Protection
- Substations serve as connection points between transmission and distribution systems
- Functions of substations include voltage transformation, switching, and power flow control
- automatically interrupt current flow during faults or overloads
- use oil as an insulating and arc-quenching medium
- use compressed air to extinguish arcs
- operate in sealed vacuum chambers
- houses circuit breakers, disconnectors, and other control equipment
- Indoor switchgear uses metal-enclosed or gas-insulated designs
- Outdoor switchgear withstands environmental conditions with open-air designs
Power Distribution Components
Distribution Network Infrastructure
- carry electricity from substations to end-users
- operate at medium voltage (typically 4-35 kV)
- deliver low voltage (120/240 V in residential areas)
- Voltage regulators maintain consistent voltage levels along distribution lines
- adjust voltage in discrete steps
- provide continuous, precise control
- convert medium voltage to utilization voltages
- serve overhead distribution systems
- used in underground distribution networks
Protection and Metering Systems
- detect abnormal conditions and initiate circuit breaker operation
- respond to excessive current flow
- measure impedance to locate faults
- compare current entering and leaving protected zones
- provide simple, cost-effective protection for smaller distribution circuits
- automatically restore power after temporary faults (fallen branches)
- measure electricity consumption for billing and system monitoring
- use rotating disks to measure energy
- Smart meters enable two-way communication and advanced functionality
- Real-time pricing
- Remote disconnection/reconnection
- Power quality monitoring
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