Custom vs. Standard Electrical Power System
Consumer companies, being supplied with electrical power, are served by electrical power systems with different consumption capacities. Since there are variations of electrical power systems, companies are being advised to customize their systems, as opposed to using the standard ones. However, many industries use standard electrical power systems.
Depending on the size of the industry, the company could choose to use the standard electrical system which is always 3-phase. However, if an industry feels that the three phase electrical power system is not sufficient to serve its needs or it is bigger than necessary for its operations, it could decide to customize its own system to better serve its needs. This is often the case for large power consuming industries or for electrical appliances that may require large power transmissions and delivery. Such customized electrical power systems are often found in automobiles, aircrafts, cruise liners, and rail networks.
Another reason, that has often prompted customization of electrical power systems, is the voltage and frequency rating of the appliances being powered by the system. If the ratings for the electrical appliances do not conform to the provisions of the standards of the region, the industry will be forced to seek customization of their electrical power system in order to be able to power them. This is because an appliance with higher voltage rating cannot operate under a lower supply. This also applies to the electric frequency: An appliance rated lower cannot operate under a higher supply of frequency, and vice versa.
However, if you are thinking of customizing your electrical power supply, you need to be aware of several specifications. One of the major specifications to consider is the cooling method of the system. In the case of a generator, not only ensure that there are sufficient metal plates for conducting the heat, but also ensure that your system is safe to use. This is one area that should be inspected closely by certified personnel before authorization. One of the most basic safety features that should be included is proper grounding.
Customizing electrical power supply however, is quite costly. Given the skilled man power, and equipment required, its cost is deemed to be higher than the cost of standard electrical power systems. It is also more demanding since almost all its features will require special attention regarding its safe use. Therefore, industries should only customize their supplies if they really deem it necessary. Otherwise, they should use the standard electrical power system given, if it provides the power needs to the appliances which require both the two, and three phase power. Another plus of the standard system is that it will not require special attention, eliminating supervision by skilled personnel.
Introduction of new equipment should be done carefully. Purchase of equipment that does not conform to the regional standards will call for customized electrical power systems. Industries should keep this point into consideration before replacing the standard electrical power systems with the customized ones. Automobile, aircraft, and cruise liner manufactures should also avoid customized electrical power systems in their products to enhance their viability in different countries of the world.
