What is voltage drop study?
Excessive voltage drop can lead to low voltage supply to equipment, resulting in improper, erratic, or no operation, as well as potential damage to the equipment. It also causes poor efficiency and wastage of energy. In worst cases, high resistance connections/splices can generate heat and potentially lead to fires at high ampere loads.
Determining the point at which voltage drop can cause a fire is challenging, as it depends on factors such as the current flowing through the high resistance connection, the resistance of the connection, the presence of flammable matter, airflow, and insulation. To ensure the safety of ship shore power connection systems, it is crucial to conduct a voltage drop study and analysis.
What are the causes of voltage drop?
During a voltage drop study and analysis, we assess the impact of voltage drop on various components and instruments. Household appliances with fixed capacity power engines are particularly susceptible to voltage drop. To mitigate voltage drop, we can increase the power factor by adding capacitors or replace the conductor with a larger size.
Why voltage drop studies are important?
There are two methods commonly used for voltage drop study and analysis: manual calculations and Electrical Transient Analyzer Program (ETAP). Manual calculations involve applying Ohm's law to calculate voltage drop based on the resistance of the circuit conductors and the current flowing through them. However, this method is only suitable for single-phase circuits. ETAP, on the other hand, is a comprehensive electrical software solution that has been widely used since the 1970s. It offers features such as load flow analysis, arc flash analysis, short circuit analysis, and more, making it a versatile tool for designing and optimizing electrical power systems.
Overcome Voltage Drop Challenges with VB® Engineering - Your Ultimate Solution!
VB Engineering specializes in utilizing ETAP for voltage drop study and analysis. Our team of experts can accurately simulate, design, and optimize ship shore power connection systems to minimize voltage drop and ensure efficient operation. By carefully considering the power factor, resistance, and reactance of conductors, we develop effective strategies to reduce voltage drop and enhance system performance. When it comes to ship shore power connection systems, minimizing voltage drop is crucial for maintaining optimal power supply to onboard equipment. Our in-depth voltage drop study and analysis will identify potential issues and provide solutions to enhance system efficiency and reliability. Choose VB Engineering for all your voltage drop study and analysis needs.
Voltage drop study methodology
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in optimizing your ship shore power connection systems.