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The operations of power transmission and utility depend on high-voltage systems. The high-voltage basics are essential knowledge you need to make sound decisions that shape their efficiency and reliability. High-voltage equipment is used in energy providers and manufacturing plants, as well as heavy-duty organizations in an attempt to reduce energy waste and maximize performance.
This detailed article will touch on the fundamentals of high-voltage, its uses and how to select the appropriate one to provide an added advantage to your business.
Household currents are of low voltage and therefore they are not considered as high voltage systems. Normal home current is normally 230 volts. However, overhead lines can carry a current that is higher than the current in a household. This is because high voltages are more stable than low voltages.
Thus, high-voltage equipment is used to transmit large amounts of electrical energy over long distances, minimizing energy loss. Typically, high voltage is anything above 1000 volts (V).
The components of high-voltage equipment or systems include:
High-voltage systems would not operate without transformers, which raise the voltage to effectively transfer current over a great distance and lower the voltage to be safely distributed. Transformers are used to reduce power wastage, which offers a stable power supply to end-users. They transfer electrical energy while maintaining frequency.
The primary winding of the transformer is connected with the AC source to produce AC, and the secondary one is connected with loads. A safe distribution of electrical power is made in these windings which are electrically insulated.
Switchgears are the protectors of the grid which manage, isolate and protect electrical equipment. They disconnect power by use of various switches in order to maintain or in the event of an electrical fault. The circuit breaker is the main part of the switchgear. It is similar to the fuse that breaks short circuit that is dangerous and safeguards the grid. Switchgear are of two types.
Air-insulated switchgear: The air-insulated switchgear has atmospheric air as a phase-to-phase and phase-to-ground insulator. It is inexpensive and has low maintenance and can be used outdoors.
Gas-insulated switchgear: The gas-insulated switchgear is a metal-enclosed switchgear which uses gas as the insulator of live parts and an earthed metal enclosure instead of air. The gas is very stable in terms of its thermal and arc-quenching.
High-voltage generators produce electricity for industrial facilities. They deliver large outputs at a consistent voltage level to meet demand. They typically provide electricity by using turbines turned by water, steam, or gas. They are often used in mining, steel production, and oil and gas to provide the necessary power supply for critical operations.
Surge arresters protect high-voltage systems from overvoltages caused by lightning strikes, electrical faults, or switching operations. They divert excess energy to the ground to protect sensitive equipment from damage.
Transmission lines are high-voltage cables, often suspended on towers and poles, to carry electricity over long distances. They’re made of aluminum or copper with insulating materials for safety and prevention of flashover.
While overhead lines are economical and used for long-distance transmission, underground cables are preferred in urban areas where space is limited.
Substations are essential components in electrical systems used for the integration, transmission, and distribution of electricity. They are placed to stabilize the power supply system, providing alternative paths for current flow to handle any emergency.
High-voltage systems are used to transmit large amounts of electricity over long distances. Power plants, such as wind farms and solar parks, are often located far from residential areas. High-voltage transmission lines carry large amounts of electricity to bridge this gap. As a result, energy loss is reduced and a large portion of electricity reaches end users.
They provide transmission efficiency as they step up the voltage to reduce energy loss. They also stabilize the grid to ensure a continuous, balanced supply.
High-voltage transmission lines need to be stepped down when they reach end users to prevent damage to equipment. This is where substations come in. They are equipped with transformers to step down high voltage to medium or low voltage for distribution networks to make it safe for end users.
Renewables like solar and wind are often prone to current fluctuation due to their outdoor installation and weather conditions. High-voltage equipment helps to transmit large amounts of renewable energy from areas with high generation to locations with high demand. This helps to balance the grid, providing stability and reliability in the electrical power supply.
High-voltage equipment integrates with other forms of electricity generation into the grid. For example, they are used to harness the power of hydroelectric dams in remote areas.
In long-range transmission, High-voltage Direct current (HVDC) is applied to reduce energy and interconnection between AC frequency grids.
Data centers need a massive and stable power supply to carry out smooth operations. Backup generators and high-voltage substations allow maintaining a steady power supply to avoid IT critical processes downtime.
High-voltage transformers ensure optimization of energy to minimize power wastage to enhance efficiency. They also help in the development and expansion of future-proof systems.
Heavy industries rely on a reliable and stable electric power supply for their operations. Metal and steel production, as an example, needs a high-voltage power supply of arc furnaces, rolling mills, or smelting plants.
The mining business requires generators and substations with high voltages to supply energy to the heavy machinery, conveyors, and processing plants. Power supply in chemical and petrochemical plants demands a high-voltage equipment in order to maintain a continuous power supply.
High-voltage systems are used in advanced transportation networks in various ways. For example, they are used in railway electrification to enable efficient train operations. They are also used in electric vehicle charging stations for fast-charging networks. Furthermore, they are utilized in urban infrastructure to provide clean and reliable electricity for metro systems.
Any company that works with high-voltage devices should be in line with the industry standards of safety, functionality, or security. The following are the fundamental safety codes to which you should comply:
IEC 60071: This is an insulation coordination safety code on high voltage system.
IEEE C37 series: It is a safety code that defines the standards of high-voltage switchgears and circuit breakers.
OSHA: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) code provides worker safety in electrical protection.
NFPA 70E: This is an arc flash and electrical safety code.
Workers' safety is non-negotiable in work operations. Personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety protocols need to be in place to act as the first line of defense. Here are some things you need to protect your workers:
Gloves and boots: Wearing insulated gloves and boots prevents direct contact with live parts, ensuring the safety of workers.
Clothing: Ensure you’re properly clothed with arc-rated clothing to protect yourself from arc flashes and burns.
Face shields and helmets: Wear face shields and helmets to protect yourself from flying debris and burns.
Hearing protection: Loud blast noises happen during faults. Therefore, wear hearing protection to protect your ears from loud noises.
Lockout/Tagout procedures: Lockout/Tagout procedures, also called LOTO procedures, ensure equipment is de-energized before maintenance. Thus, you won’t fear sudden power function while maintaining or repairing electrical faults.
Regular inspection and maintenance are needed to ensure system reliability and minimize costly breakdowns.
Transformers: Perform oil analysis to monitor insulation and detect dissolved gases. Inspect the tap changer to ensure reliable voltage regulation.
Switchgear: Perform partial discharge testing to detect insulation deterioration.
Circuit breakers: Lubricate moving parts and inspect the arc chamber to prevent wear and ensure proper fault interruption.
Transmission lines: Conduct a visual inspection to detect corrosion or damage. Perform thermal scanning to detect conductor heating.
Substations: Perform tests on the grounding systems to ensure effective fault current. Conduct a battery and backup systems check to ensure reliability.
There are common risks associated with high-voltage equipment. Arc flash hazards can occur, leading to severe burns and equipment damage. Worse, it can cause fatality. Insulation failure can happen due to aging, moisture, or stress. Overheating can also cause equipment failure.
To prevent these and many other problems, it is essential to conduct regular checks and inspections. Have a maintenance schedule. Install surge arresters and lightning protection devices to safeguard high-voltage equipment against transient overvoltages.
If you’re working with high-voltage equipment, ensure you and your workers undergo comprehensive training on safety procedures. Having a good understanding of potential hazards and emergency protocols will help to minimize risks associated with high-voltage equipment.
Train workers on the appropriate clothing and equipment to wear on site to prevent accidents and fatalities.
High-voltage equipment must be appropriately designed, installed, and maintained in accordance with industry standards. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure the equipment operates safely and efficiently.
Different high-voltage solutions are needed in different industries. Utilities, for example, need sturdy substations, transmission lines, and gas-insulated switchgear for urban environments. Heavy industries, like steel and mining, need robust transformers and circuit breakers to handle heavy loads. Renewable energy needs step-up transformers to protect solar and wind farms.
Where will the high-voltage equipment be used? If it is outdoors or in areas prone to overvoltages, you’ll need robust and sturdy equipment that will last for a long time and protect sensitive devices.
Your high-voltage equipment should adhere to global standards like IEC, ANSI, and ISO. The equipment should be type-tested and certified to meet voltage and current ratings. The equipment should also be integrated with safety features to ensure worker safety and legal protection against safety issues. Non-compliance may cause fines, downtime, system failures, or fatality.
High-voltage equipment should have high-quality insulation materials and robust mechanical components. For low maintenance and usage in areas where space is critical, you can use gas-insulated switchgear. Invest in transformers with enhanced cooling systems to prevent overheating and ensure durability. Ensure that your high-voltage equipment is suitable for your environment, whether dry, humid, or hot.
When purchasing high-voltage equipment, consider the long-term cost. This goes beyond the initial investment, which basically includes the cost of purchase and installation. It includes operating costs and downtime costs. Equipment with lifecycle benefits and better ROI can be energy-efficient for your business.
Collaborate with suppliers that are experienced with high-voltage equipment. Find suppliers who can offer unique solutions to your business. A good supplier should have global certifications for export distribution and after-sales support.
High-voltage basics are necessary in electricity energy production, transmission, and distribution. It ensures that electricity reaches the right point at the right level. Choosing the right high-voltage solution is subject to a combination of factors like cost, application requirements, supplier support, etc.
Need quality high-voltage equipment? Haivol Electrical is the place to call to make your equipment safe and reliable. Our expert team is ready to help.
High-voltage is categorized by the level of voltage. High voltage is usually between 69 kV and 230 kV. Extra high voltage refers to the allotted voltage in the range of 230 kV to 765 kV, whereas ultra-high voltage is 765 kV and above.
High-voltage equipment should be regularly inspected to detect issues on time and get them fixed. The frequency of the inspection depends on the recommendations of manufacturers, environmental conditions, and the age of equipment. However, a thorough inspection should be conducted at least annually.
LV is low-voltage up to 1000V. MV stands for medium-voltage between 1000V and 45kV. HV is high-voltage between 230kV and 45kV.
High voltage is usually above 1000V or 1 kV. Certain voltage levels, such as 45 kV to 230 kV are common with transmission grids, but may differ because of standard of use.
High-voltage solutions are required in power generation and transmission sectors to transmit electricity over extensive distances so that grids can be stable.
