Effects of Voltage Drop on a Refrigerator Rated 80W & 250V

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SUMMARY

The discussion addresses the effects of voltage drop on a refrigerator rated at 80W and 250V. When the voltage decreases to 50V, the calculated resistance is 781.25 ohms, resulting in a current of 0.064A. Consequently, the power consumption drops to 3.2W, significantly below the rated power. This reduction in voltage and power can lead to potential damage to the appliance, particularly if the compressor fails to operate correctly, risking overheating due to stall current.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Ohm's Law (V=IR)
  • Familiarity with power calculations (P=VI)
  • Basic knowledge of electrical resistance and its implications
  • Concept of appliance ratings and their operational thresholds
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the impact of voltage fluctuations on electrical appliances
  • Learn about compressor operation in refrigeration systems
  • Study the thermal effects of stall current in electrical devices
  • Explore protective measures against voltage drops in household appliances
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineers, appliance manufacturers, and anyone involved in the design or maintenance of refrigeration systems will benefit from this discussion.

ritwik06
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Homework Statement



A refrigerator is marked 80W and 250 V. What is likely to happen if the voltage falls to
50V?

Homework Equations



P=V^2/R
V=IR

The Attempt at a Solution


---------------------------------------------------------
R=V^2/P
=250*250/80
=781.25 ohm
Assuming the resistance to be constant.
--------------------------------------------------------
Current earlier=P/V
=80/250
=0.32 A
----------------------------------------------------

Current when voltage falls to 50V

=50/781.25 (V=IR)
=0.064 A

---------------------------------------------------

Power will also decrease.
P=VI
=50*0.064
=3.2 W

******************************************

It seems that the appliance will be damaged. I have no idea about anything further. Am I right? I have written everything i could make out. Please help me now.
 
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Your reasoning looks entirely correct to me. Of course, in the real world, you're probably right -- the appliance may well be damaged if its compressor can't turn and it just sits there soaking up stall current until it overheats.

- Warren
 

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