It is a type of energy system in which electrical energy is transmitted via a single phase of alternating current. Single-phase systems are commonly used in households and small enterprises where the demand for electricity remains low.
The main features of a single-phase system are:
- Single phase: Energy is transmitted through one phase of alternating current, which means that the voltage changes periodically over time, reaching its maximum and minimum.
- Simplicity: Single-phase systems are simpler to construct and cheaper to install than three-phase systems, which makes them popular in small electrical installations.
- Application: Single-phase systems are common in households, small shops, offices and other places with limited electricity demand. They are also used to power individual devices such as small motors, lighting, refrigerators, etc.
- Voltage: varies by region. The most common is 230 V in Europe and 120 V in the United States.
- Voltage waveform: In this system, the voltage changes periodically and oscillates between positive and negative values, creating a sinusoidal waveform.
It is a system in which electricity is transmitted via three phases of alternating current. It is used in industry and power engineering, where there is a high demand for electricity and ensuring effective and reliable energy transmission.
The main features of a three-phase system are:
- Three phases: Energy is transmitted via three phases of alternating current, which are phase-shifted by 120 degrees from each other. Each phase has its maximum and minimum voltage, and they are simultaneous. This means that when the current in one phase reaches a maximum, it remains at a minimum in the other phases. This promotes even load distribution in the system.
- Efficiency: Three-phase systems are much more efficient than single-phase systems. They easily transmit large amounts of electricity. The flow of current in three parallel phases reduces transmission losses and ensures voltage stability.
- Application: Three-phase systems are used in power plants, industry, production plants, electric locomotives, subways, construction and many other places where there is a demand for large amounts of electricity. They are also used to drive three-phase motors, commonly used in industry.
- Voltage: depending on the region. The most common voltages are 400 V or 230 V in Europe and 480 V or 277 V in the United States.
- Voltage waveform: The voltage in each phase changes periodically and creates a sinusoidal waveform. Thanks to the phase shift between the phases, it is more stable.