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Which of the following items shares the major cost in a distribution system?
Conductors
Earthing systems
Distribution transformer
Insulators
Distribution transformer
In an electrical power distribution system, the distribution transformer is the most expensive single component. It involves high-cost magnetic materials (silicon steel core) and conductive materials (copper/aluminum windings) housed in a robust, weather-protected tank, often equipped with cooling systems and protective bushings.
In an electrical power distribution system, the distribution transformer is the most expensive single component. It involves high-cost magnetic materials (silicon steel core) and conductive materials (copper/aluminum windings) housed in a robust, weather-protected tank, often equipped with cooling systems and protective bushings.
CosttotalтАЛ=CosttransformerтАЛ+CostconductorsтАЛ+CostinsulatorsтАЛ+CostearthingтАЛ тАФ Total distribution system cost representation
The distribution transformer functions based on Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. It steps down the high primary distribution voltage (e.g., 11 kV) to the secondary utilization voltage (e.g., 415 V or 230 V) required by consumers. Because it must handle full load currents for specific zones, its capacity, insulation level, and efficiency requirements result in a high manufacturing cost relative to conductors, insulators, or earthing components.
The distribution transformer accounts for nearly 40-50% of the total cost of a secondary distribution network.
Cost analysis in distribution planning considers both capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX).
Transmission lines are dominated by conductor costs, whereas distribution systems are dominated by the proliferation of transformers serving localized loads.
High reliability through standard modular designs
Flexibility in scaling capacity for localized load growth
High initial investment
Requires scheduled maintenance for oil and winding health
Urban and rural grid electrification
Industrial and commercial load centers
Conductors are the second major cost factor, but because distribution lines are shorter than transmission lines, the transformer remains the primary expense.
Option A (Conductors) is the primary cost in long-distance transmission lines, not distribution systems.
Option D (Insulators) cost is negligible compared to the active power components.
C is correct тАФ The distribution transformer is the most significant capital expenditure item in a standard electrical distribution system.
Always distinguish between transmission and distribution: Transmission costs are dominated by conductors and towers, whereas distribution costs are dominated by transformers.