Energy Efficiecy in Electrical System
Energy Efficiecy in Electrical System
Energy Efficiecy in Electrical System
1.0 INTRODUCTION
It is well known that there is an all round energy crisis all over the world and efforts
are being made to conserve energy during the stages of conversion, transmission &
distribution and at end use equipment.
This pocket guide deals with energy efficiency in electrical system viz electrical
distribution and motors. It includes the latest development in technology, approach
for energy conservation, design details, standards, definitions and formulae.
2.0 TRANSFORMERS
Distribution transformers are used for lower voltage distribution networks, which
distributes the supply to the end users (11kV, 6.6 kV, 3.3 kV, 440V)
The transformers are inherently very efficient by design. The efficiency varies
anywhere between 96 to 99.5 percent. However, the efficiency will depend on the
effective load (% loading). Hence the efficiency of the transformers not only depends
on the design, but also, on the effective operating load.
Rating of the transformers: Calculate the connected load, apply the diversity
factor applicable to the particular industry and arrive at the KVA rating of the
Transformer.
Diversity factor various from industry and depends on various factors such as
individual loads, load factor and future expansion needs of the plant.
Location of Transformer
Location of the transformer is very important as far as distribution loss is concerned.
Transformer receives HT voltage from the grid and steps it down to the required
voltage. Transformers should be placed close to the load centre, considering other
features like optimisation needs for centralised control, operational flexibility etc.
This will bring down the distribution loss in cables.
Transformers Losses
In transformers, the losses appear in the form of no-load losses (constant losses)
and load losses (variable losses). The Variable losses depend on the effective
operating load to the transformer. The energy consumed in meeting these losses are
dissipated in the form of heat, which is not available for the consumers to use.
No-load loss (Core loss) is the power consumed to sustain the magnetic field in the
transformer's steel core. Core loss occurs whenever the transformer is energized;
core loss does not vary with load. Core losses are caused by two factors: hysteresis
and eddy current losses.
Load loss (Copper loss) is the power loss in the primary and secondary windings of a
transformer due to the resistance of the windings. Copper loss varies with the square
of the load current. (P=I2R).
The maximum efficiency of the transformer occurs at a condition when constant loss
is equal to variable loss. For distribution transformers, the core loss is 15 to 20% of
full load copper loss. Hence, the maximum efficiency of the distribution
transformers occurs at a loading between 40 – 60%. For power transformers,
the core loss is 25 to 30% of full load copper loss. Hence, the maximum efficiency
of the power transformers occurs at a loading between 60 – 80%.
The efficiency of the transformers not only depends on the design, but also, on the
effective operating load.
The core loss and the full load copper loss for transformers are specified in the
transformer test certificate. Typical values of no-load and full load losses are given in
following table:
There will be a little variation in actual no-load and load loss of transformers. The
exact values can be obtained from the transformer test certificate.
The conventional transformer is made up a silicon alloyed iron (Grain oriented) core.
The iron loss of any transformer depends on the type of core used in the
transformers. However, the latest technology is to use amorphous material for the
core. The expected reduction in energy loss over conventional (Si Fe core)
transformers is roughly around 70%, which is quite significant.
The following table shows the no load and full load loss of conventional (Cold Rolled
Grain Oriented) and amorphous metal core transformers with the present available
technology.
Selection of transformers
The transformer user with a long term view should make the purchase decision
based on the Total Owing Cost (TOC). There are two costs in the life cycle of the
transformer. One is purchase price and other one is cost of energy lost from the
transformer over its lifetime. The total cost of a transformer is the sum of purchase
cost and net value of energy losses. The decision should be based on the lowest
TOC.
TOC = Initial cost + Capitalized cost of annual Iron losses + Capitalized cost of
annual copper losses + Capitalized cost of annual auxiliary losses
Capitalized cost of
Iron losses per kW = 8400 x EC x (1 + r)n -1 =A
r(1+r)n
Capitalized cost of
Copper losses per kW = 8400 x EC x (1 + r)n -1 x LS = B
r(1+r)n
Capitalized cost of
Auxiliary losses per kW = 0.4 x 8400 x EC x (1 + r)n -1 x LS = C
r(1+r)n
Where, r = Rate of interest
EC = Cost of Energy (Rs per kWh)
n = Life of the transformer (It is taken as 20 years)
LS = Annual loss factor
= 0.3 LF + 0.7 (LF)2
LF = Annual load factor
The cooling fans (auxiliary) operation is taken as 40% of the time of the transformer
operation. Substituting the values,
kW
(Real Power)
∅
kVAr
(Reactive Power)
kVA
(Apparent Power)
The supply of reactive power from the system results in reduced installation
efficiency due to
Increased current for a given load
Higher voltage drop in the system
Increase in losses of transformers, switchgears and cables
Higher kVA demand from the supply system
It is therefore necessary to reduce and manage the flow of reactive power to achieve
higher efficiency of the electrical system. The easiest method of reducing and
managing reactive power is by power factor improvement through power capacitors.
As power factor tends to unity, the electrical system efficiency will improve.
The estimation of KVAr required for compensation to achieve desired power factor is
generally done depending on the type of loads to be compensated. For ease of use,
the tables and formulae given in this section may be used.
The following table gives the recommended rating of power capacitors, which are to
be used directly with 3 phase AC induction motors.
1.
Note :
In electrical installations, the operating load kW and its average power factor (PF)
can be ascertained from the electricity bill.
The average PF is considered as the initial PF and the final PF can be suitably
assumed as required. In such cases required Capacitor kVAr can be calculated as
shown in example.
Example:-
Calculate the required kVAr compensation for a 500 kW installation to improve the PF
from 0.75 to 0.96.
kVAr = kW x multiplying factor from Table:1
= 500 x 0.59 = 295 kVAr.
Note:-
The table is based on the following formula:
kVAr required = kW(tan ∅1 – tan ∅2)
Where,
∅1 = Cos-1 (PF1) and
∅2 = Cos-1 (PF2)
PF1 and PF2 are initial and final power factors respectively.
Harmonics
Electrical loads can be classified as linear and non-linear loads. A linear load is one
which draws a sinusoidal current when subjected to sinusoidal voltage as shown in
figure. The current wave may or may not have a phase difference with respect to the
voltage. A pure resistance, inductance or capacitance or any combination of these
forms a linear load.
The non-linear load is one which draws non-sinusoidal or pulsating current when
subjected to sinusoidal voltage. Any non-sinusoidal current can be mathematically
resolved into a series of sinusoidal components (Fourier series). The first component
is called as fundamental and the remaining components whose frequencies are
integral multiples of the fundamental frequency are known as harmonics. If the
fundamental frequency is 50 Hz, then 2nd harmonic will have a frequency of 100Hz
and the 3rd will have 150Hz and so on.
Sources of harmonics
Effects of Harmonics
Instantaneous effects
• Vibrating and noise in transformers, reactors, and induction motor etc.
• Series / parallel Resonance resulting in damage to equipments connected to
the network.
• Malfunctioning of Sensitive electronic Devices.
• Interferences in communication and control circuits (telephone, control and
monitoring circuits).
• Total energy required to perform the desired function increases, imposing a
higher demand on the electrical supply system thereby increasing energy
cost.
Long-term effects
• Failure of rotating machines: Harmonic rotating fields cause pulsating
mechanical torques resulting in vibrations and increased mechanical fatigue in
rotating machines. This lead to premature mechanical failure.
• Reduction in capacitor life: Capacitors draw abnormally high currents in the
presence of Harmonics leading to reduction in the rated life of the Capacitor.
• Premature failure in machines, transformers, cables etc- harmonics cause
additional iron losses and copper losses (due to skin effect). These additional
losses increase the operating temperature of the equipment to abnormal
levels, thereby causing its premature failure.
Remedial Measures
Calculation of Distortions
Current Distortion
Total current distortion, in general defines the relationship between the total
harmonic current & fundamental current.
Voltage Distortion
Total voltage distortion in general defines the relationship between the total
harmonic voltage and fundamental voltage.
IEEE Standard 519 (1992) has been already existing which specifies limits of the
harmonics in power systems. The acceptable limit for harmonic distortion as per
IEEE standard is as under:
Voltage Harmonics
Current Distortion
Even harmonics are limited to 25% of the odd current harmonic limits above
Apart from G5/3, IEEE 519 (1992) and other guidelines such as IEC 1000 - 2 -2
define acceptable limits of harmonics in power system. In India, still no guideline has
been published. However, Central Board of Irrigation & Power (CBIP) is working in
this direction and has published a finding on presence of harmonics at various
voltage levels for industrial load as well as for utility supply system.
5.0 MOTORS
AC induction motors account for a major share of the total use of electricity in the
industrial sector. In the agricultural and commercial sectors also, power consumption
by AC motors is quite substantial. About 70% of the electrical energy consumed in
India is used for driving electric motors. The energy consumed by a motor in one
year is 10 to 20 times the initial purchase cost of the motor. Therefore the efficiency
of the motor is of paramount importance, both during selection and operation.
Majority of equipment use squirrel cage induction motor as the driving element in
industry. The motor loading survey indicates that the most of the motors used in
industry are oversized. This results in poor efficiency, which leads to more energy
consumption and energy cost. Therefore, motor loading survey and its improvement
must be a part of any comprehensive energy conservation effort.
The efficiency of the induction motors vary with respect to percentage loading of the
motors. The maximum efficiency of the motor happens at the full load of the motor.
The operating efficiency drops down drastically, if the loading of the motor is less
than 60%. In under loaded motors, the iron loss portion is more dominant than the
copper loss. Hence the motor power factor is also poor at the lower loading.
The following methods are employed to improve the efficiency of the under loaded
motors:
1) Down sizing the motor capacity
2) Converting delta to star connection at the motor terminal
3) Installing automatic star-delta-star converters
Down sizing motor capacity - If the motor is continuously under loaded, one of
the options is to down size the motor capacity. This will improve the percentage
loading of the new motor. Hence the operating efficiency of the motor is improved.
The expected improvement in efficiency in this method is about 4 to 5% of
the actual power consumed by the motor.
The efficiency of the motor is reduced whenever the motor is rewound. The reduction
in efficiency depends on the type of burnt-out in the motor and the quality of re-
winder. Generally the drop in efficiency varies from 0.5% to 1% for every rewind.
When the old motors are rewound for more than 5 times, it can be replaced with new
energy efficient motor. The overall efficiency improvement considering reduced
efficiency of old rewound motor and improvement in energy efficient motor can be
up to 10-12%.
The efficiency of conventional motors range from 70% to 90% depending on the size
of the motors.
Energy Efficient Motors are designed with low operating losses. The efficiency of
Energy Efficient motors is high when compared to conventional AC induction motors,
as they are manufactured with high quality and low loss materials. The efficiency of
Energy Efficient motors available in the market range from 75% to 96%, depending
on the size.
The efficiency of Energy Efficient motors is always higher than conventional motors
for all ranges of motors. The design improvements in Energy Efficient Motors are:
In industry, the loading of the motors are generally varying between 40 – 80% of
the rated capacity. This is because, normally motors are selected one size higher to
accommodate higher starting load and varying process requirements. Efficiency of a
motor is proportional to the loading of the motor. Conventional Motors operate in a
lower efficiency zone when they are under loaded. The Energy Efficient motors
operate at a flat efficiency curve above 50% loading.
Impact of Slip
Rewound motors have higher slip than Energy Efficient motors. While replacing
Rewound motors with Energy Efficient motors, one has to consider the impact of a
relatively higher speed. In centrifugal equipments, there would be increase in
capacity due to high speed, which will result in marginal increase in power
consumption. While replacing the old motors with energy efficient motors in
centrifugal equipment, increase in capacity also to be considered with power
consumption.
IS 12615: 2004 (First Revision) is the latest national standard for Energy Efficient
Induction Motors (Three Phase Squirrel Cage induction motors). IS 12615 covers
Energy Efficient motors from 0.37kW to 160kW (up to Frame size 315L). IS 12615
specifies two efficiency levels, which are Eff-2 and Eff-1. The efficiency levels of Eff-1
motors are superior to Eff-2 motors.
The energy efficient motors manufactured in India must conform to one of the
following efficiency levels specified in IS 12615:
Improved Efficiency (Eff-2)
High Efficiency (Eff-1)
The efficiency levels of both Eff1 & Eff2 are higher than the nominal values specified
in IS 8789: 1996.
The efficiency levels of energy efficient motors are given below (Reference: IEEMA
guidelines for energy efficient motors):
The formula for calculating the savings on account of replacing old motors with
energy efficient motor is given below:
Let Eold = Efficiency of standard motor, in %.
Enew = Efficiency of energy efficient motor, in %
P = Power output of motor, in kW
H = Number of hours of operation of motor per year,
The energy saving techniques (Energy Efficient motors) employed in motor design
adds to its cost. The value of these savings is seen in reduced energy costs. Even
though, no standard method is available for comparing the efficiency evaluation of
motors at site, the following method can be followed for evaluating the cost
economics.
Capitalized cost of motor = Initial cost +[(1 -η at running load) x Load Factor
x Annuity factor x EC x operating hrs/ annum
x Motor rating]
Where,
η at running load = % efficiency from manufacturer catalogue at the likely percentage
Loading
Load Factor = Likely percentage loading
Annuity factor = (1 + r)n - 1
r(1 + r)n
r = Rate of interest
n = No. of years of operation
EC = Energy cost (Rs / kWh)
The efficiency of the motors depends on the percentage loading. The details of
efficiency at different loading should be known for calculating capitalized cost of
motors.
The following example shows cost economics calculation for two different efficiency
motors at 75% loading.
Consider two 90 kW, 4 pole motors with the efficiency of 94.5% and 93.5% at 75%
loading. The cost of the motors is Rs.1.45 lakhs and Rs.1.30 lakhs respectively.
Capitalized cost of Motor = initial cost +[(1 -η at running load) x Load Factor x
Annuity factor x EC x operating hrs/annum
X Motor rating]
Capitalized cost of Motor = initial cost +[(1 -η at running load) x Load Factor x
Annuity factor x EC x operating hrs/annum
x Motor rating]
The annual cost of energy saved by selecting high efficiency motor is Rs.57, 800/-
The above method can be followed for selecting the energy efficient motor
at design stage.
Energy Efficient motors have tremendous potential for energy savings. Energy
Efficient Motors are 15-20 % more expensive than conventional motors. However,
the additional investment on Energy Efficient motors can be recovered in 1 to 3
years time, depending on the working hours and cost of energy. Energy Efficient
motors have been successfully implemented in several plants both at the design
stage and as retrofits in existing plants, resulting in substantial energy savings.
6.0 LIST OF ENERGY SAVING PROJECTS IN ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1. Change the electrical connection from delta to star for lightly loaded motors
• This can be applied when the load is permanently less than 40%.
2. Install Auto-star-delta-star converters for variable and shock loads
• If the load is less than the set point of 40%, it will operate in star mode
otherwise it will operate in delta mode.
3. Install automatic power factor controllers and maintain high PF
• Monitor and control the power factor
4. Install capacitor banks to improve power factor
• For large size motors operating with poor PF installing a capacitor bank at
load end will improve power factor.
5. Distribute load on transformer network in an optimum manner
• Distribute the load on transformers such that the loading is 40 to 60% to
operate the transformers at max. efficiency.
• For distribution transformer max. efficiency occurs at 40 to 60% of load
• For power max. efficiency occurs at 60 to 80% of load
6. Minimise overall distribution losses, by proper cable sizing and addition of
capacitor banks
• By connecting capacitors, current can be reduced and there by voltage
drop and I2R loss can be minimised.
• Voltage drop should be less than 5 V.
7. Optimise TG sets operating frequency, depending on user needs
• In some cases where there is a margin, substantial savings can be
achieved by optimising the TG set frequency during island mode of
operation.
8. Optimise the operating voltage
• By reducing the operating voltage power consumption can be reduced
provided the motor is lightly loaded and there is margin to reduce voltage
9. Use VFD for low / partial loads
• Power consumption is proportional to cube of speed. This can be applied
for varying centrifugal loads.
10. Install maximum demand controller to optimise maximum demand
• Helps to keep the maximum demand within the limits and saves from
penalty.
11. Replace rewound motors with energy efficient motors
• As a thumb rule motor rewound for more than 5 times can be replaced
with energy efficient motor.
12. Replace V-belts with synthetic flat belts/Cog ‘V’ belts
• Wedge in and wedge out losses can be avoided.
13. Install Soft Starter cum Energy saver for lightly loaded motors
• Soft starter increases the voltage linearly keeping the starting current
within the limits.
14. Install on-load tap changer (OLTC) for the main transformer and optimising the
voltage
• By installing OLTC, tap position can be changed without interrupting the
power supply.
15. Install harmonic filters and reduce Total Hormonics Distortion
• Harmonics are introduced by non linear loads. By installing proper
harmonic filter they can be kept within the limit
• Use ceiling or table fan as first line of defense against summer heat.
• A good air conditioner will cool and dehumidify a room in about 30 minutes,
so use a timer and leave the unit off for some time.
• Check for holes or cracks around your walls, ceilings, windows, doors, light
and plumbing fixtures, switches, and electrical outlets that can leak air into or
out of your home.
• Make sure your appliances and heating and cooling systems are properly
maintained. Check your owner's manuals for the recommended maintenance.
• Turn off kitchen, bath, and other exhaust fans within 20 minutes after you are
done cooking or bathing; when replacing exhaust fans, consider installing
high-efficiency, low-noise models.
• During the cooling season, keep the window coverings closed during the day
to prevent solar gain.
• Turn off the lights in any room you're not using, or consider installing timers,
photo cells, or occupancy sensors to reduce the amount of time your lights are
on.
• To maximize savings with a laptop, put the AC adapter on a power strip that
can be turned off (or will turn off automatically); the transformer in the AC
adapter draws power continuously, even when the laptop is not plugged into
the adapter.
• Turn off your computer and monitor when not in use.
• Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes.
7.0 BASIC DEFINITIONS IN ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
Active Power
The Active Power (Watt) is that portion of electrical power that is real. Utility charges
are based on kilo-Watt hours.
Alternating Current
(AC)- A current which periodically changes its direction.
Alternating Voltage
A voltage which periodically changes its polarity.
Alternator
An alternating current generator.
Ammeter
An electric meter used to measure current, calibrated in amperes.
Amp
The unit of electrical current. (See Ampere)
Ampacity
The current-carrying capacity of conductors or equipment, expressed in amperes.
Ampere
The basic unit measuring the quantity of electricity. The unit of current flow.
Represented by I.
Ampere-Hour Capacity
The quantity of electricity measured in ampere-hours (Ah) which may be delivered
by a cell or battery under specified conditions.
Ampere-Hour Efficiency
The ratio of the output of a secondary cell or battery, measured in ampere-hours, to
the input required to restore the initial state of charge, under specified conditions
(also coulombic efficiency).
Amplification
Procedure of expanding the strength of a signal.
Amplifier
A device use to increase the strength of a signal.
Amplitude
The maximum value of a wave.
Apparent Power
Apparent Power (VA) is the product of the rms voltage and current which relates to
the effective load seen by the transformer and current carrying conductors.
Armature
That part of an electric generator in which the voltage is induced.
Armature Coil
A winding that develops current output from a generator when its turns cut a
magnetic flux.
Armored Cable
Cable with a metal sheathing.
Attenuation
The reduction of a signal from one point to another. For an electrical surge,
attenuation refers to the reduction of an incoming surge by a limiter (attenuator).
Wire resistance, arresters, power conditioners attenuate surges to varying degrees.
Attenuator
A device that reduces signal power
Autotransformer
A transformer used to step voltage up or down. The primary and secondary windings
share common turns, and it provides no isolation.
Auxiliary Contracts
Subordinate contacts which operate with the movement of the main contracts.
Auxiliary Source
A power source dedicated to providing emergency power to a critical load when
commercial power is interrupted.
AWG
American Wire Gage. This term refers to the U.S. standard for wire size.
Ballast
An auxiliary electrical device for fluorescent and other discharge light sources.
Battery
A device for turning chemical energy into electrical energy.
Bonding Bushing
A conduit bushing that has conductor terminal use to bond the conduit.
Bonding Jumper
A reliable conductor to ensure the required electrical conductivity between metal
parts required to be electrically connected.
Branch Circuit
The circuit conductors between the final over current device protecting the circuit
and the outlet(s).
Breaker Tie
A metal device used to connect one or more circuit breaker handles so that they
switch at the same time.
BTU
British Thermal Unit. Energy required to raise one pound of water one degree
Fahrenheit. One pound of water at 32 degrees F requires the transfer of 144 BTUs to
freeze into solid ice.
Buck-Boost Transformer
A small, low voltage transformer placed in series with the power line to increase or
reduce steady state voltage.
Busbar
A heavy rigid conductor used for high voltage feeders.
Candlepower (or Candela)
Basic unit for measuring luminous intensity from a light source in a given direction.
Capacitance
The property of a capacitor that determines the quantity of electric energy that it can
store.
Capacitor
A device consisting of two conducting surfaces separated by an insulator and having
the ability of storing electric energy. Also called a condenser.
Conductor
Metal wires and cables that allow the flow of electrical current.
Connected Load
The combined continuous rating of all the equipment connected to the system or part
of the system under consideration.
Continuous Load
A load where the maximum current is expected to continue for three hours or more.
Rating of the branch circuit protection device shall not be less tan 125% of the
continuous load.
Controller
A device or group of devices that serves to govern, in some predetermined manner,
the electric power delivered to the apparatus to which it is connected.
Converter
A device which changes electrical energy from one form to another. There are
several types of converters:
Crest Factor
The ratio of the peak or maximum value of a wave, to the r.m.s. value.
Current
The movement of electrons through a conductor. Measured in amperes and its
symbol is "I".
Current Ratio
The current ratio of a current transformer is the ratio of r.m.s. primary current to
r.m.s. secondary current, under specified conditions of load.
Current Transformer-(or CT)
A transformer used in instrumentation to assist in measuring current. It utilizes the
strength of the magnetic field around the conductor to form an induced current that
can then be applied across a resistance to form a proportional voltage.
Cycle
One complete wave of positive and negative values of an alternating current. (See
"Hertz")
Demand Factor
The ratio of the maximum demand of a system, or part of a system, to the total
connected load of a system or the part of the system under consideration.
Displacement Power Factor, DPF
The ratio of real power to apparent power. Displacement Power Factor is the cosine
of the phase angle between the fundamental current and the fundamental voltage.
Inductive loads cause current to lag behind voltage, while capacitive loads cause
current to lead voltage. The displacement power factor uses only the fundamental of
the signal for its calculation. (see also: Power Factor)
Diversity Factor
The ratio of the sum of the maximum power demands of the subdivisions, or parts of
a system, to the maxi-mum demand of the whole system or of part of the system
under consideration.
Eddy Current
Localized currents induced in an iron core by alternating magnetic flux. These
currents translate into losses (heat) and their minimization is an important factor in
lamination design.
Efficiency
The efficiency of an electrical machine or apparatus is the ratio of its useful power
output to its total power input.
Electromotive Force
A synonym for voltage, usually restricted to generated voltage.
Encapsulated Winding
A motor which has its winding structure completely coated with an insulating resin
(such as epoxy). This construction type is designed for exposure to more severe
atmospheric conditions than the normal varnished winding.
Energy
The capacity for doing work.
Equipment Grounding Conductor
The conductor used to connect the non–current-carrying metal parts of equipment
and other enclosures to the system grounded conductor, the grounding electrode
conductor, or both, at the service equipment or at the source of a separately derived
system.
Farad
The unit of measure for capacitance. It is the capacitance of a capacitor in which an
applied voltage of one volt will store a charge of one coulomb. The more practical
units of capacitance are the microfarad and Pico farad.
Feeder
All circuit conductors between the service equipment, the source of a separately
derived system, or other power supply source and the final branch-circuit
overcurrent device.
Field
A term commonly used to describe the stationary (Stator) member of a DC Motor.
The field provides the magnetic field with which the mechanically rotating (Armature
or Rotor) member interacts.
Filament
In a directly heated electron tube, a heating element which also serves as the
emitter.
Fitting
An accessory such as a locknut, bushing, or other part of a wiring system that is
intended primarily to perform a mechanical rather than an electrical function.
Flashover
Flashing due to high current flowing between two points of different potential.
Usually due to insulation breakdown resulting from arcing.
Fluctuation
A surge or sag in voltage amplitude, often caused by load switching or fault clearing.
Flux
The magnetic field which is established around an energized conductor or permanent
magnet. The field is represented by flux lines creating a flux pattern between
opposite poles. The density of the flux lines is a measure of the strength of the
magnetic field.
Form Factor
The ratio of the r.m.s. to the average value of a periodic wave.
Frequency
The rate at which alternating current makes a complete cycle of reversals. It is
expressed in cycles per second. In India 50 cycles (Hz) is the standard. The
frequency of the AC will affect the speed of a motor
Full Load Current
The current flowing through the line when the motor is operating at full-load torque
and full-load speed with rated frequency and voltage applied to the motor
terminals.
Full Load Torque
That torque of a motor necessary to produce its rated horsepower at full-load speed
sometimes referred to as running torque.
Fuse
An overcurrent protective device with a circuit opening fusible part that is heated and
severed by the passage of overcurrent through it.
Generator
A machine designed for the production of electric power.
Ground
A conducting connection, whether intentional or accidental, between an electrical
circuit or equipment and the earth or to some conducting body that serves in place
of the earth.
Grounded, Effectively
Intentionally connected to earth through a ground connection or connections of
sufficiently low impedance and having sufficient current-carrying capacity to prevent
the buildup of voltages that may result in undue hazards to connected equipment or
to persons.
Harmonic (component)
A sinusoidal component of an ac voltage or current that is a multiple of the
fundamental frequency.
Harmonic Distortion
Periodic distortion of the sine wave. The waveform becomes distorted when higher
frequency components are added to the pure sine wave. (see also: Total Harmonic
Distortion)
Harmonic Order
A number indicating the harmonic frequency: the first harmonic is the fundamental
frequency (50 Hz or 60 Hz), the third harmonic is the component with three times
the fundamental frequency (150 Hz or 180 Hz), and so on. Harmonics can be
positive-sequence (+), zero-sequence (0) or negative-sequence (-). Positive-
sequence harmonics try to run the motor faster than fundamental; negative-
sequence harmonics try to run the motor slower than fundamental. In both cases the
motor looses torque and heats up.
Henry
The basic unit of inductance. One henry is the inductance which induces an emf of 1
volt when the current is changing at the rate of 1 ampere per second.
Hertz
A measurement of frequency. One hertz is equal to one inverse second (1/s); that is,
one cycle per second, where a cycle is the duration between similar portions of a
wave. HZ
High Intensity Discharge Lamps (HID.)
A general group of lamps consisting of mercury, metal halide, high-pressure sodium,
and low pressure sodium lamps.
High-Pressure Sodium Lamps
A sodium vapor in which the partial pressure of the vapor during operation is the
order of 0.1 atmospheres.
Impedance
Forces which resist current flow in AC circuits, i.e. resistance, inductive reactance,
capacitive reactance.
Inductive Load
An inductive load is a load in which the current lags behind the voltage across the
load.
Inductance
The ability of a coil to store energy and oppose changes in current flowing through it.
A function of the cross sectional area, number of turns of coil, length of coil and core
material.
Induction Motor
An alternating current motor, either single phase or polyphase, comprising
independent primary and secondary windings, in which the secondary receives power
from the primary by electromagnetic induction.
Input Power Frequency
The frequency range that can be input into the suppressor without damaging it.
Inrush current
The initial surge of current required by a load before resistance or impedance
increases to its normal operating value.
Instrument Transformer
A transformer (current or potential) suitable for use with measuring instruments;
i.e., one in which the conditions of the current, voltage and phase angle in the
primary circuit are represented with acceptable accuracy in the secondary circuit.
Interrupting Rating
The highest current at rated voltage that a device is intended to interrupt under
standard test conditions.
KVA
(Kilovolt amperes) (volts times amperes) divided by 1000. 1 KVA=1000 VA. KVA is
actual measured power (apparent power) and is used for circuit sizing.
KW
(Kilowatts) watts divided by 1000. KW is real power and is important in sizing. One
thousand watts. Expressed by kW.
KWH
Kilowatt hours) KW times hours. A measurement of power and time used by utilities
for billing purposes.
K-factor
A number indicating losses in transformers due to harmonic currents. Higher order
harmonics influence the k-factor more than lower order harmonics.
Lagging Load
An inductive load with current lagging voltage. Since inductors tend to resist changes
in current, the current flow through an inductive circuit will lag behind the voltage.
The number of electrical degrees between voltage and current is known as the
"phase angle". The cosine of this angle is equal to the power factor (linear loads
only).
Linear Load
A load in which the current relationship to voltage is constant based on relatively
constant load impedance.
Luminaire
A complete lighting unit consisting of a lamp or lamps together with the parts
designed to distribute the light, to position and protect the lamps and ballast (where
applicable), and to connect the lamps to the power supply.
Motor Induction Type
An alternating current motor, either single phase or polyphase, comprising
independent primary and secondary windings, in which the secondary receives power
from the primary by electromagnetic induction.
Motor Synchronous Type
An alternating current motor which operates at the speed of rotation of the magnetic
flux.
Nonlinear Load
A load where the wave shape of the steady-state current does not follow the wave
shape of the applied voltage.
Ohm
The derived unit for electrical resistance or impedance; one ohm equals one volt per
ampere. The unit of electrical resistance. Represented by R.
Ohmmeter
An instrument for measuring resistance in ohms.
Oscillator
An electronic device for converting dc energy into ac energy
Outage
Long term power interruption, longer than 1 minute.
Over-current
Any current in excess of the rated current of equipment or the ampacity of a
conductor. It may result from overload, short circuit, or ground fault.
Overload
Operation of equipment in excess of normal, full-load rating, or of a conductor in
excess of rated ampacity that, when it persists for a sufficient length of time, would
cause damage or dangerous overheating. A fault, such as a short circuit or ground
fault, is not an overload.
Overvoltage
The voltage is above its nominal value on a long term
(longer than 10 cycles).
Peak Value
The highest or maximum value of an alternation of alternating current or voltage.
This peak value occurs twice during each cycle.
Peak-to-Peak Value
The maximum voltage change occuring during one cycle of alternating voltage or
current. The total amount of voltage between the positive peak and the negative
peak of one cycle or twice the peak value.
Phase
The factional part of the period of a sinusoidal wave, usually expressed in electrical
degrees and referenced to the origin.
Phase Difference
The difference in phase between two sinusoidal waves having the same period,
usually expressed in electrical degrees. The voltage wave if generally taken as the
reference, so in an inductive circuit the current lags the voltage, and in a capacitive
circuit the current leads the voltage. Sometimes called the phase angle
Point of Common Coupling (PCC)
Point where utility responsibiltity ends and building /industry owner responsibility
begins. Usually at the main transformer or at the revenue meter.
Poly phase
A general term applied to any system of more than a single phase. This term is
ordinarily applied to symmetrical systems.
Potential Transformer
A transformer designed for shunt or parallel connection in its primary circuit, with the
ratio of transformation appearing as a ratio of potential differences.
Power
Rate of work, equals work divided by time.
Power Factor (PF)
The ratio of real power to apparent power. Inductive loads cause current to lag
behind voltage, while capacitive loads cause current to lead voltage. Also the
presence of harmonic currents decrease the Power Factor. The power factor uses the
total rms value, thus including all harmonics, for its calculation. (see also:
Displacement Power Factor)
Primary
The windings of a transformer which receive energy from the supply circuit.
Rating
The rating of an electrical device includes (1) the normal r.m.s. current which it is
designed to carry, (2) the normal r.m.s. volt-age of the circuit in which it is intended
to operate, (3) the normal frequency of the current and the interruption (or
withstand) rating of the device.
Reactance
Opposition to the flow of alternating current. Capacitive reactance is the opposition
offered by capacitor, and inductive reactance is the opposition offered by a coil or
other inductance.
Reactive Power
The Reactive Power (VAR) is the reactive component of the apparent power, caused
by a phase shift between ac current and voltage in inductors (coils) and capacitors.
VARs are present in a distribution system as a result of inductive loads, such as
motors, reactors, and transformers. VAR’s are compensated for by correction
capacitors.
Sag
A sag is a temporary voltage decrease caused by, for example, large equipment
starting up or shutting down. The duration is usually from one cycle to a few
seconds.
Secondary
The windings which receive the energy by induction from the primary.
Separately Derived System
A premises wiring system whose power is derived from a battery, from a solar
photovoltaic system, or from a generator, transformer, or converter windings, and
that has no direct electrical connection, including a solidly connected grounded circuit
conductor, to supply conductors originating in another system.
Signaling Circuit
Any electric circuit that energizes signaling equipment.
Single-Phase
A term characterizing a circuit energized by a single alternating voltage source.
Slip Rings
The rotating contacts which are connected to the loops of a generator.
Three Phase
A term characterizing a combination of three circuits energized by alternating voltage
sources which differ in phase by one-third of a cycle, 120 degrees.
Under-voltage
The voltage is below its nominal value on a long term (longer than 10 cycles).
Volt
The unit of voltage or potential difference. The unit of electromotive force, electrical
pressure, or difference of potential. Represented by E or V.
Volt Amperes
The product of the voltage across a circuit and the current in the circuit. Expressed in
VA.
Voltage
Electrical pressure, the force which causes current to flow through a conductor.
Voltage (of a circuit)
The greatest root-mean-square (rms) (effective) difference of potential between any
two conductors of the circuit concerned.
Voltage Drop
The loss of voltage between the input to a device and the output from a device due
to the internal impedance or resistance of the device. In all electrical systems, the
conductors should be sized so that the voltage drop never exceeds 3% for power,
heating, and lighting loads or combinations of these.
Voltage to Ground
For grounded circuits, the voltage between the given conductor and that point or
conductor of the circuit that is grounded; for ungrounded circuits, the greatest
voltage between the given conductor and any other conductor of the circuit.
Voltage Ratio
The voltage ratio of a transformer is the ratio of the r.m.s. primary terminal voltage
to the r.m.s. secondary current, under specified conditions of load.
Watt
The unit of power. Equal to one joule per second. The unit of electrical power.
Represented by P or W.
8.0 LIST OF SOME FORMULAE
Ohms Law:
Power - AC
Circuits:
Power - DC
Circuits:
Induction Motors