Length Using Line Losses (1 Phase 3 Wire US) Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ Length of Underground AC Wire = \frac{Area of Underground AC Wire \times Line Losses}{2 \times Current Underground AC \times Resistivity} \] \[ L = \frac{A \times P_{loss}}{2 \times I \times \rho} \]

Area of Underground AC Wire:

m²

Line Losses:

Current Underground AC:

Resistivity:

Ω·m

Length of Underground AC Wire:

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1. What is the Length Using Line Losses Calculation?

The Length Using Line Losses calculation determines the length of underground AC wire based on the area of the wire, line losses, current, and resistivity of the material. This is essential for designing efficient electrical distribution systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ L = \frac{A \times P_{loss}}{2 \times I \times \rho} \]

Where:

\( L \) — Length of Underground AC Wire (m)
\( A \) — Area of Underground AC Wire (m²)
\( P_{loss} \) — Line Losses (W)
\( I \) — Current Underground AC (A)
\( \rho \) — Resistivity (Ω·m)

Explanation: The formula calculates the maximum length of wire that can be used while maintaining acceptable power loss levels in a 1-phase 3-wire underground AC system.

3. Importance of Length Calculation

Details: Accurate length calculation is crucial for minimizing power losses, ensuring voltage stability, and optimizing the efficiency of underground electrical distribution systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the area in square meters, line losses in watts, current in amperes, and resistivity in ohm-meters. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the factor of 2 used in the denominator?
A: The factor of 2 accounts for the return path in single-phase systems, where current flows through both the phase and neutral conductors.

Q2: What is typical resistivity for copper conductors?
A: Copper has a resistivity of approximately 1.68 × 10⁻⁸ Ω·m at 20°C. Aluminum has about 2.82 × 10⁻⁸ Ω·m.

Q3: How do temperature variations affect the calculation?
A: Resistivity increases with temperature, so calculations should use resistivity values at the expected operating temperature.

Q4: Can this formula be used for overhead lines?
A: While the basic principles are similar, overhead lines have different considerations such as air cooling and different installation requirements.

Q5: What are acceptable line loss percentages?
A: Typically, electrical distribution systems aim for line losses between 3-5% of the total power transmitted.