Design Considerations in Distribution System

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS IN DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

Good voltage regulation of a distribution network is probably the most important factor responsible for delivering good service to the consumers. For this purpose, design of feeders and distributors requires careful consideration.

( i) Feeders.

A feeder is designed from the point of view of its current carrying capacity while the voltage drop consideration is relatively unimportant. It is because voltage drop in a feeder can be compensated by means of voltage regulating equipment at the substation.

( ii) Distributors.

A distributor is designed from the point of view of the voltage drop in it. It is because a distributor supplies power to the consumers and there is a statutory limit of voltage variations at the consumer’s terminals (± 6% of rated value). The size and length of the distributor should be such that voltage at the consumer’s terminals is within the permissible limits.