Single-Phase vs Three-Phase Power Systems ⚡

Single phase (1 phase) and three phase (3 phase) electricity are cornerstones of AC electrical systems. Seth So, Power Systems Experience Center Engineer, explains how both systems operate.

Starting off with the fundamentals, Seth discusses how both 1-phase and 3-phase systems operate using AC power. The different amounts of phases in each system and how that affects wiring schemes for both electrical systems.

Seth goes on to explain
• how residential settings will be fed by a single-phase transformer in what is known as a split-phase system
• why commercial applications requiring 1-phase and 3-phase power can use a 3-phase wye transformer (spoiler alert: it’s the neutral wire)
• applications also use 3-phase delta transformers for higher voltage and can include what’s known as a high-leg delta
• the neutral wire plays a role in balanced loads and unbalanced loads
• that depending on applications, loads will require different voltage levels

Finishing the video, Seth describes how industrial, commercial and residential loads will require different voltage levels and examples of all three.

Differences in AC and DC electrical power systems:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJeMr_mgSj4

Converting AC and DC power using rectifiers and inverters video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T-sQdpebRH4

Thank you for watching one of our many educational videos on the topic of power systems. Schedule a visit to one of Eaton's Power Systems Experience Centers in either Pittsburgh or Houston to learn more!

To learn more about Eaton products and our Power Systems Experience Centers: http://eaton.com/experience

To view more educational videos from Eaton's Power Systems Experience Centers: http://videos.eaton.com/experience

00:00 Intro
00:52 AC power and phases
01:59 Single phase transformers
02:31 3 phase transformers
02:57 Benefits of 3 phase power
03:34 Voltage sources
05:35 Wiring differences (Balanced and unbalanced systems)
07:58 Applications

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