WHAT ARE VOLTAGE REGULATORS? WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF VOLTAGE REGULATORS?



All of the components in an electrical system are designed to operate at their rated voltages for optimum efficiency and long service. An ideal electrical system would provide constant voltage to all customers under all conditions of load.

Unfortunately, because of the unpredictable dynamics of a practical system, none is ideal. Thus, it is necessary to include voltage regulators in the system to correct its performance and keep its voltage reasonably close to an ideal constant.

There are now at least four different methods for maintaining close to ideal voltage on electric power transmission and distribution systems. These include the use of stepvoltage regulators, transformer load-tap changers, fixed and switched capacitors, and static var (volt-amperes reactive) systems (SVS).

However, single-phase step-voltage regulators are most frequently used to regulate voltage in electric power distribution systems.

There are many reasons, both technical and economic, why system voltage should be held close to its intended standard.

Among them is the fact that overvoltage shortens the life of heating elements in resistive appliances, components in electronic products, and filaments in both incandescent and fluorescent lamps.

Moreover, overvoltage can damage motor-driven appliances and tools.

On the other hand, undervoltage increases the time taken for the resistive elements of appliances to heat up while also causing motors to overheat and lose efficiency. It will also reduce the performance of electronic products such as computers, radios, and TVs, and dim the illumination from luminaires.

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