Are you running industrial and commercial buildings? If so, you should learn more and maximize a three-phase system. This offers as much power for the same amount of current in a single-phase power supply.
If this is your first time hearing about three-phase power systems, this article is for you.
What Is a Three-Phase Power?
Three-phase power is the process of creating and delivering current. It’s one of the most common methods of supplying power across electrical grids. In general, grids in North America convert three-phase to single-phase before supplying power to residential buildings. Commercial buildings must be wired for three-phase power as it’s well-suited to carry heavy loads. Most areas in the U.S. use 120 volts as a standard for single-phase power.
Single-Phase Power vs. Three-Phase Power
Single-phase power is a common type of household circuit. It’s used to power appliances and fixtures, such as televisions and lights. In Mississippi, all single-phase motors should be connected for 120/240 volts to minimize a sudden drop in voltage levels. But other areas in the U.S. use 120 volts as a standard single-phase power.
Regardless of the voltage, all single-phase circuits are two-wire alternating current circuits, which are composed of one neutral wire and one power wire. Power flows between the power wire to the neutral wire, creating rises and falls in voltage. With a single-phase power system, there is no constant power as power is not delivered at a constant rate. This doesn’t pose any issues for households but could cause many problems in commercial buildings and industrial facilities.
Three-phase power is better for larger buildings that require greater amounts of electricity. As the name implies, these systems connect to all three phases provided by a transformer. Since there are several available power waves, three-phase systems deliver more energy constantly.
The legs of a three-phase system are also different from a single-phase power supply. They’re 120 degrees apart because of the three waves present. The wires of a single-phase power supply have a 180-degree separation, which causes occasional minor outages. A three-phase system has a greater balance between the waves, providing consistent and constant energy to a structure or machine.
What Are the Benefits of Using Three-Phase Power Systems?
A three-phase power system offers many advantages. Aside from being a better option than a single-phase power supply in commercial and industrial buildings, it also has many intriguing properties. We’ve listed some of the benefits of using three-phase power systems below.
Better Machine Efficiency
Because machinery requires more power, relying on single-phase power is not enough. A single-phase system will not run equipment or heavy machinery in a commercial building. This is the most obvious reason why three-phase power systems are necessary for commercial buildings. Because they produce more power, they enable machines to operate at their full capacity.
Less Electricity Use
Machines that require three-phase systems but are on a single-phase power wire will run slowly. This also means they’ll consume more electricity than they would if operating on the electrical systems they should be. A commercial property can decrease the amount of electricity it consumes by using the appropriate energy supply.
No Power Drops
Using a single-phase power supply in industrial properties and machines often leads to occasional power drops. During these waves, there will come a point where the single-phase system will not provide electricity. This can be damaging to the machines and can adversely impact operations.
Three-phase systems have better consistency, allowing them to provide power at a constant rate. Three-phase power systems have become essential for many commercial and industrial buildings that require constant energy supplies.
More Power
As mentioned, single-phase systems provide sufficient power to residential areas and properties. Three-phase systems supply more electricity, meaning they can deliver more power for a comparable cost. Aside from ensuring efficient machine use, a three-phase system is an excellent way for industrial facilities to receive power.
Cheaper
Three-phase power is cheaper than single-phase power due to its efficiency and constant power supply. When machines receive the right amount of electrical current, they don’t have to consume more power than usual to run efficiently. Additionally, receiving more energy at a similar price is more cost-effective for businesses in the long run.
Another reason why a three-phase system is cheaper is because it uses cheaper wiring than a single-phase system. As a result, installing a three-phase system is more budget-friendly than other electrical systems.
Why a Three-Phase System Is Better for the Environment
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the country created 1.55 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide as a result of the creation of electricity. This amount of pollution can have long-term and devastating effects on the environment. There are many ways individuals can reduce their energy use, but established and bigger businesses must do additional work since they use more electricity.
Embracing better processes for energy production and delivery can reduce electricity use and, eventually, pollution. This is why three-phase power can benefit the Earth. Using three-phase power in machines and buildings can minimize the overproduction of greenhouse gasses. This is an option that delivers results fast, unlike transitioning to solar and wind power, which requires more time.
Converting From a Single-Phase to a Three-Phase Power System
Commercial buildings and industrial facilities may need to convert from a single-phase to a three-phase power supply to provide enough power to equipment. If you need to upgrade and are located in the Mississippi area, work with Apex Electric. Our skilled and experienced electricians can help you through the entire process so you can enjoy the benefits of a three-phase power supply as soon as possible.
Contact us today and find out how we can make the conversion hassle-free for you and your business!
Conclusion
Three-phase power offers many benefits. It’s cheaper, uses less energy, and guarantees consistent electricity to machines and industrial buildings. This makes it better in terms of efficiency and for the environment. Make use of a three-phase power supply today by reaching out to professionals like Apex Electric today!
