Components of a Power System That Solutions Manual Explain

The power system is a network that comprises of generation, distribution, and transmission of electricity. They are mediators between the power supply and power stations in the city to deliver electricity. Various devices, like synchronous generators, motors, transformers, circuit breakers, conductors, etc., are responsible for carrying and transmitting electricity. The below content took the reference of Power System Analysis and Design 5th Edition Solutions Manual by CFS and penned down the power system components.

Power System Components

Synchronous Generators

An asynchronous generator is an electric machine that converts mechanical energy into AC electrical power at a specific voltage and frequency. It comprises the synchronous motor, which runs at a constant speed called synchronous speed. It works on the principle of Faraday laws of electromagnetic induction (when electromotive force is induced in the armature coil if it is rotating in the uniform magnetic field). Hydro generators are one of the best examples of it.

Switchgear

We all are familiar with low voltage switches and rewirable fuses. A switch is a gadget used to close and open the circuit, while a fuse protects electrical appliances from current production. Every electric circuit needs these two components. These devices have been developed in different forms. Switchgear is one amongst them that covers a wide range of equipment concerned with switching and protection. Their function is to protect, control, and isolate electrical equipment.

Bus bar

A bus-bar is a metallic joint deployed inside switchgear, busway enclosures, and electric panel boards for distributing local high current power in a power system. They also connect high voltage equipment at the electrical switchyard and low voltage equipment in battery banks. They are uninsulated and have adequate stiffness to be supported in the air by insulated pillars. They are merely convenient means of connecting switches and other equipment into various arrangements. They can be made of copper, aluminum, or steel. Due to the low resistivity and high mechanical strength, copper economically benefits from developing bus bars to install large capacity where the currents are particularly heavy.

Lightning arrester

The lightning arrester is a device used in power stations or telecommunication towers to protect themselves from the damaging effect of natural lighting (thunder). It has a high voltage terminal which heads towards the sky and a ground terminal beneath the ground.  When lightning travels along the power line to the arrester, the current from the surge is diverted through the arrester, in most cases to earth. These arresters are designed to absorb enough transient energy to prevent dangerous reflections and cut off the flow of power-frequency follow current at the first current zero after the transient discharge.

Conclusion

These few components mentioned above are necessary for the distribution, transmission, and supply of electricity. Either of them dysfunctions or gets faulty must be replaced to prevent damaging effects. Power stations, substations, and home appliances run on these components and safeguard us from the harmful effects of electricity. Never ignore their importance and ensure your every gadget has these kinds of stuff.