1. What is Maximum Demand?

Maximum Demand is defined as the peak power consumption of the load connected to a power system. It represents the highest level of electrical demand that occurs within a specified time period.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Maximum Demand formula:

Where:

• \( \text{Average Load} \) — The average power consumption over a period (Watt)
• \( \text{Load Factor} \) — The ratio of average load to maximum demand (0 to 1)

Explanation: This formula calculates the peak power demand based on the average consumption and the load factor, which indicates how efficiently the electrical capacity is being utilized.

3. Importance of Maximum Demand Calculation

Details: Calculating maximum demand is crucial for proper power system design, capacity planning, tariff calculation, and ensuring reliable power supply without overloading the system.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter average load in watts and load factor as a decimal between 0 and 1. All values must be valid (average load > 0, load factor between 0.0001 and 1).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the significance of load factor?
A: Load factor indicates how efficiently electrical capacity is utilized. Higher load factors (closer to 1) indicate more efficient use of the power system.

Q2: How is maximum demand used in utility billing?
A: Many utilities charge commercial and industrial customers based on their maximum demand in addition to energy consumption, as it reflects the capacity required to serve their needs.

Q3: What is the typical range for load factor?
A: Load factor typically ranges from 0.3 to 0.9, with residential customers having lower factors and industrial customers having higher factors.

Q4: How can maximum demand be reduced?
A: Maximum demand can be reduced through load scheduling, energy storage systems, demand response programs, and efficient equipment operation.

Q5: What's the difference between maximum demand and peak load?
A: Maximum demand refers to the highest average demand over a specific interval (usually 15-30 minutes), while peak load refers to the instantaneous maximum power consumption.