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Which of the following D.C. distribution system is the simplest and lowest in first cost?
Radial system
Inter-connected system
Ring system
Any of the above
Radial system
The radial distribution system is the simplest and lowest in first cost because it uses a single source supplying power to feeders that radiate out to the loads, requiring the minimum amount of conductor material and switchgear. In this topology, power flows in one direction only, which simplifies the design and relay coordination compared to ring or interconnected systems.
The radial distribution system is the simplest and lowest in first cost because it uses a single source supplying power to feeders that radiate out to the loads, requiring the minimum amount of conductor material and switchgear. In this topology, power flows in one direction only, which simplifies the design and relay coordination compared to ring or interconnected systems.
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Cost of Copper (C) is directly proportional to length (L) and current (I) in radial systems.
In a radial system, a single feeder originates from a distribution substation and supplies the distribution transformer at the load end. There is no redundancy; if the feeder or main line fails, all consumers connected beyond the fault point lose power, which is why it is the most economical but least reliable method.
Most economical distribution method for low-density areas.
Reliability is lowest among distribution topologies.
Voltage drop increases significantly as you move away from the source.
Simplest to design, install, and maintain.
Lowest initial installation cost.
Simple design and operation.
Easy fault location and protection coordination.
Low reliability (single point of failure).
High voltage variation at the end of the feeder.
Cannot support multiple supply sources.
Rural electrification.
Low-load-density residential areas.
Temporary power connections.
| Feature | Radial | Inter-connected |
|---|---|---|
Cost | Lowest | Highest |
Reliability | Low | High |
Ring main systems provide higher reliability by feeding the load from both ends, which justifies their higher cost.
Inter-connected systems are used in high-density urban areas where reliability is critical.
A is correct тАФ The radial system is the simplest and lowest in first cost due to its unidirectional, non-redundant feeder arrangement.
In competitive exams, remember that 'simplest' and 'lowest cost' go hand-in-hand with 'radial', whereas 'highest reliability' corresponds to 'inter-connected' systems.