Three Phase A.C Supply: Explained

In summary, in a three phase AC supply, the voltage across any two lines is 400 volts due to the 120 degrees phase shift. Each line connected to the terminals has a voltage of 230 volts. This can be calculated by multiplying 2 with 230 and taking the cosine of 30 degrees. The 30 degrees comes from the difference in voltage between two phases.
  • #1
FizixFreak
154
0
i was reading three phase ac supply and this statement is quite confusing ''because of the 120 degrees phase shift the voltage across any two lines is 400 volts (the voltage across each of the lines connected to the terminals is 230 volts)
can anybody please explain it??
 
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  • #2
FizixFreak said:
i was reading three phase ac supply and this statement is quite confusing ''because of the 120 degrees phase shift the voltage across any two lines is 400 volts (the voltage across each of the lines connected to the terminals is 230 volts)
can anybody please explain it??

What do you find confusing about it? How they came up with the 400 volts?

CS
 
  • #3
Assuming you mean european 230v/415V - 3phase (the answer is slightly different for US 120v 3phase but by coincidence some of the numbers are close enough to be confusing.)

A single phase measured relative to the ground varies between 0 and about 325V - with an RMS value of 230V =peak voltage divided by root(2).
The maximum voltage difference between any two phases is about 400V = RMS voltage * root(3)
 
  • #4
the line voltage is the voltage "difference" of two phase voltages... that means one phase voltage should be reversed and added to another phase.. than u'll have 2x230xcos(30) as the line voltage ([tex]\approx[/tex]400)... (check for the attachment, then u'll get a better idea)
 

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  • #5
Asok said:
the line voltage is the voltage "difference" of two phase voltages... that means one phase voltage should be reversed and added to another phase.. than u'll have 2x230xcos(30) as the line voltage ([tex]\approx[/tex]400)... (check for the attachment, then u'll get a better idea)

rookie question
how do you came up with 2(230)cos(30) and why 30?
 
  • #6
Asok drew a picture showing very nicely exactly where the 30º came from. Please look at the picture and if you don't understand that then ask a specific question about it.
 

1. What is a three-phase A.C supply?

A three-phase A.C supply is an electrical power supply that consists of three alternating currents that are 120 degrees out of phase with each other, typically designated as phases A, B, and C. This type of supply is commonly used in industrial and commercial settings due to its efficiency and ability to power large loads.

2. How does a three-phase A.C supply work?

A three-phase A.C supply works by using three separate power lines, each carrying a different phase of the alternating current. These phases are offset by 120 degrees, which creates a more constant flow of electricity compared to a single-phase supply. The three phases work together to power motors and other electrical equipment efficiently.

3. What are the advantages of a three-phase A.C supply?

There are several advantages to using a three-phase A.C supply. Firstly, it is more efficient than a single-phase supply, allowing for the use of smaller and lighter wires to transmit the same amount of power. It also results in smoother and more constant power output, making it ideal for powering large motors and equipment. Additionally, three-phase A.C supply is more reliable and has a higher power capacity compared to single-phase supply.

4. How is a three-phase A.C supply different from a single-phase supply?

The main difference between a three-phase A.C supply and a single-phase supply is the number of alternating currents. A single-phase supply has only one alternating current, while a three-phase supply has three alternating currents. This results in a more efficient and constant power output in a three-phase supply, making it ideal for industrial and commercial use.

5. What are the common applications of a three-phase A.C supply?

A three-phase A.C supply is commonly used in industrial and commercial settings for powering large motors, pumps, compressors, and other heavy machinery. It is also used in power transmission and distribution systems, as well as in renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. Additionally, three-phase A.C supply is used in some residential buildings for high-power appliances such as air conditioners and electric stoves.

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