Electrical problems can significantly impact operations in your business or facility. That's why it's imperative to understand some of the electrical issues you are likely to face and the appropriate measures to take to solve them. Take voltage sags, for instance. A voltage sag, also known as a dip, is a short reduction in voltage below the normal main supply. Voltage dips and sags can significantly impact power quality over time. As your electrical equipment and appliances drop out over a short time, they can wear down and lose their effectiveness. In addition, you will likely run into downtime issues.
Therefore, knowing a thing or two about voltage sags will go a long way in helping you avoid such outcomes. Here's more on this.
Causes
What causes voltage dips or sags? Typically, voltage dips occur from issues with the local power grid or equipment within your business or plant. When it comes to issues with the power grid, some of the typical culprits include lightning, traffic accidents, wind, disturbance to underground cables from construction work and trees or branches falling onto the power lines. Usually, the frequency of these voltage sags will depend on these factors. For instance, do you live in a region that experiences high winds and frequent lightning? You can expect to have more voltage dip issues. On the other hand, voltage sags will probably be fewer if the local power grid uses an underground power distribution system that's less likely to be affected by winds, lightning, falling trees, etc.
Impact
The impact of voltage sags on your operations often depends on the sensitivity of your electrical equipment. Generally, some equipment is more sensitive than others and will often be affected the most. It's worth noting that some equipment is only sensitive to the voltage sag's magnitude. Others are sensitive to magnitude and duration. Most automated machines, motor drive controls, process controls, etc. are examples of equipment that are sensitive to the magnitude of a voltage dip. On the other hand, electrical equipment that relies on electronic power supplies is an example of equipment sensitive to both magnitude and duration.
Unfortunately, knowing the actual sensitivity of all the electrical equipment in your business or plant can be challenging. Therefore, it's always best to work with a commercial electrician to identify the best approaches to protect your facility and equipment from voltage dips.
Solutions
Usually, active voltage correction is the solution to voltage dips. First, voltage sag immunity testing is conducted to determine the sensitivity of your equipment to voltage sags. An active correction device, also known as an active voltage regulation device, can then be used to correct voltage deviations and ensure your equipment continues to function normally when dips occur. You can also install power monitoring devices that monitor the electrical environment in your facility and correct voltage dips, surges, and other issues that could affect your electrical equipment.
Contact a commercial electrician for more information.
The electrical systems in your home can seem pretty complicated. However, it doesn't have to be this way. On this blog, we will be exploring the fascinating world of home electrical repairs. I will guide you through various tasks such as how to map out the wiring in your home and how to find a fault. I will also look at some of the warning signs that your home has an electrical problem. While I'm not a qualified electrical contractor, I do have a passion for this subject. I watch lots of YouTube vids and read everything I can find online about this subject.