The planning and design of the power distribution systems in a building or infrastructure is subject to constant Improvement and transformation. The usual requirements may include efficiency, cost optimization, and time needs. Well-designed distribution systems are not only essential for the proper day-to-day functioning but may also impact the sustainability aspects of a building.
Planning of Power Distribution System
Keeping the total amount of cost of ownership low for the principal company is an important consideration. This is achieved by keeping the cost of systems, operations, maintenance, and upgrade low. The goals of planning can be minimum power losses, better power quality, and hassle-free operation. Optimally sized equipment and components need to be selected to attend both cost-effectiveness and efficiency.
Evaluating the Demand
For the industrial power distribution systems, the energy/power demand can be pre-determined. It can be evaluated by collecting data in areas including:
- List of load locations and collections.
- Process variations.
- Calculating loads possessing higher harmonics.
- Inclusion of the future requirement and growth plan.
Locating the equipment and assets the best way
The best and most recommended option for placing a distribution system is a central location. The particular location may offer advantages including minimization of the voltage drops, the shortest route for the cables (and least cable sizes), directional uniformity in the power flow, and lesser electrical losses.
Evaluating and Choosing the Right Parameters
It is important for you to choose and select the right distribution system parameters and to design the distribution system in lieu of them.
The Environmental parameter may include humidity, temperature, and others that may be important towards choosing the right equipment. The environmental factors including chemical pollutants, dust, combustible gases, and others may impact the choice of location of the distribution system.
Frequency and voltage should also be correctly determined. Voltage may be calculated on the basis of the loads that are anticipated to occur in present or in future. For frequency, the regional standards may apply.
Another important factor is variation. Variations are not uncommon and almost all equipment can bear them to a certain limit. But in the surge and excess conditions, faults and shorts may also occur. There are certain precautions that can be taken if there is a threat that the voltages and current will increase exceedingly. Components that lower voltage drop is a useful addition. Variations can also be limited by the automated interfaces. When the equipment is exposed to the mechanical and thermal stresses associated with the high-fault currents, they should be chosen on the basis of rating. The equipment should be rated higher than the short-circuit current.
Configuration of the Distribution System
Apart from the overall configuration of the system, other factors to be evaluated include the number of incoming power feeders, distribution type, equipment ratings, distribution/incoming voltage levels, earthing, use of the emergency standby equipment, and others. Evaluation and design of these elements will provide the necessary schematic of the single-line distribution system.
Ratings and sizing for the equipment do require consideration as well. If you do not want to face limitations when you buy an industrial distribution panel, contact a leading supplier of industrial equipment to make reliable purchases at an affordable cost.
