Join 60,000+ competitive exam aspirants
In a short transmission line, voltage regulation is zero when the power factor angle of the load at the receiving end side is equal to
tan−1(RX)
tan−1(XR)
tan−1(ZX)
tan−1(ZR)
tan−1(XR)
Quick Summary: Voltage regulation of a transmission line is defined as the change in receiving-end voltage from no-load to full-load. For zero voltage regulation, the receiving-end voltage at full load must equal the sending-end voltage, which occurs when the load power factor leads the line impedance angle.
Voltage regulation of a transmission line is defined as the change in receiving-end voltage from no-load to full-load. For zero voltage regulation, the receiving-end voltage at full load must equal the sending-end voltage, which occurs when the load power factor leads the line impedance angle.
ΔV=I(Rcosϕ±Xsinϕ) — Approximate voltage drop for short line
ϕ=−tan−1(XR) — Condition for zero voltage regulation
In a short transmission line, the approximate voltage drop is given by ΔV≈I(Rcosϕ+Xsinϕ). Setting ΔV=0 leads to Rcosϕ=−Xsinϕ. For capacitive loads (leading PF), the condition for zero regulation is tanϕ=−XR, implying the power factor angle ϕ is such that cosϕ corresponds to the line's inherent ratio.
Voltage regulation is zero only for leading power factor loads (capacitive).
For lagging power factor loads, voltage regulation is always positive.
The parameter R/X determines the critical power factor required for flat voltage regulation.
The regulation becomes negative (voltage rise) if the load power factor is more leading than the critical value.
Constant receiving end voltage independent of load current
Improves system voltage stability profile
Requires significant capacitive compensation
Risk of over-voltage during light load conditions
Long-distance power transmission lines
Industrial distribution systems with large motor loads
The negative sign in the angle arises because regulation is zero only when current leads the voltage.
Option A (tan−1(X/R)) represents the impedance angle of the line itself, not the load PF angle required for zero regulation.
B is correct — Voltage regulation becomes zero when the load power factor is leading such that the angle ϕ=−tan−1(R/X).
Remember that for short lines, zero regulation is only achievable with leading power factor loads; lagging loads always result in a voltage drop.