Which component connects the substation to the area where power is to be distributed?

Question

Examoogle · Accepted Answer

Feeders

Explanation: Feeders are conductors of large current-carrying capacity that connect the substation to the various distribution centers or load points. Unlike distributors, feeders are designed primarily based on their current-carrying capacity, as there are no tappings taken from them along their length.

Working Principle: In a power distribution network, the feeder acts as the primary transmission link from the distribution substation to the secondary distribution network. Since no consumers are tapped directly from a feeder, the current remains constant throughout its length, allowing engineers to size the conductor based on thermal limits and voltage drop constraints rather than local load tap density.

Key Formulas: $V_{drop} = I 	imes R$ — Voltage drop across the feeder; $I_{capacity} > I_{load}$ — Constraint for current carrying capacity

Key Points: Feeders do not have any tappings taken from them.; The primary design consideration for a feeder is its current-carrying capacity.; Voltage drop is the secondary, yet critical, design parameter for long feeders.; Distributors are the lines from which tappings are taken for consumers.

Advantages: Uniform current distribution along the conductor length.; Lower power loss compared to distributors due to direct point-to-point design.

Disadvantages: High initial cost due to larger conductor cross-section.; If a feeder fails, the entire downstream distribution network is affected.

Applications: Primary distribution networks.; Interconnecting substations with Load Centers.

Additional Info: Distributors (Option B) are lines from which tappings are taken for consumer connections, hence current varies along the length.. Service Mains (Option D) are the small cables that connect the distributor to the consumer's terminals.

Answer: A is correct — Feeders are specifically designed to carry current from substations to distribution areas without any intermediate consumer tappings.

Exam Tip: Always remember: Feeders = Current/Capacity; Distributors = Tappings/Voltage Drop; Service Mains = Consumer Connection.

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