Knowledge about Phase and Neutral Balance
Phase and neutral balance means controlling the current in three phases of the electricity supply, in terms of the distribution of load on each phase.
This balance is very important in electrical systems to ensure proper running of the different circuits and reduce on things like overheating and damaging of the equipment used.
Key Concepts
Three-Phase Systems
Most three phase electrical systems employ 3 circuit conductors that deliver different AC’s which are out of phase by 120 degrees. This configuration makes it possible to have relatively stable and efficient source of power as compared to single phase ac systems.
Neutral Wire
Neutral wire is used for return path after taking some current in a three-phase distribution system. Ideally assuming all the phases are somewhat equally distributed the current that flows through the neutral wire should be zero.
However, if the loads on each phase are unlike, then, the neutral conductor will carry the burden current.
Importance of Balancing
Balanced Load
Balanced load means there is a equal current in each of the phase conducting the current. This condition reduces the current that passes through the neutral wire thus in the process leads to minimized loss and eliminated overheating.
Unbalanced Load
When loads are not symmetrical, it results in an imbalance state where one or more than one phase will have more current than we require. This imbalance can cause:
Excessive Neutral Current: High neutral currents also lead to over heating and probably the failure of the neutral wire.
Voltage Fluctuations: Varying the load affects the voltage levels which affects the usability of different machines and can cause them to break down.
General information related to Phase and Neutral Balancing
To maintain an effective phase and neutral balance, several strategies can be employed:
Load Distribution
Make sure that the loads are balanced to all the three phases. This requires co-ordination of electrical systems for a given building so that no phase is over loaded with current.
Use of Balancing Equipment
Equipment like automatic phase balancers can help to correct a situation where some phase is loaded more than others, it redistributes the current of the overheated phase to the less loaded ones.
Regular Monitoring
The imbalance of phase currents, therefore, starts with a regular check with measures to correct the problem implemented immediately.
You can also follow us on AutomationForum.co, Facebook and Linkedin to receive daily Instrumentation updates.
You can also follow us on ForumElectrical.com , Facebook and Linkedin to receive daily Electrical updates.