This can be accomplished by the installation of a main ground bar (MGB)
· Specify harmonic canceling transformers in the design of high-tech facilities. Switch-mode power supplies and non-linear loads such as personal computers, UPS systems, adjustable speed & variable frequency drives, and electronic lighting ballasts generate power harmonics. Harmonic canceling transformers will treat the harmonics, thereby removing them from the electrical system
· Inspect for and remove any neutral to ground bonding jumpers in any sub-panels downstream of the main electrical service panel and main bonding jumper
· Evenly distribute power loads across all power phases. This will help stabilize voltage and increase power efficiency
· Install wire conductors one size larger than is required by the national electrical code (NEC) to increase energy efficiency. By increasing the wire size, reduced power losses offset the cost of the wire and produce savings on energy costs. For most new construction projects, the cost of labour and conduit for the installation outweigh the cost of the wire. The increased size of the wire can pay for itself in less than two years. At the same time, increased wire size is insurance against future changing needs and assures lower voltage drops. Copper upsizing also minimises costly operations problems, particularly downtime due to overheated or failed equipment. Reliability and service life of electrical equipment are substantially increased
· Install modern energy-efficient magnetic ballasts in low-energy-cost areas or low-hours-of-use applications. Even if you pay a lower premium for electronic ballasts, you may still wait up to six years for a return on investment. To check if magnetic ballasts are more cost-effective, one can apply this simple formula: A divided by B = Years for payback; where A= cost difference; B= power consumption difference in kW x annual operating hours x cost per kWh
· Install electrical equipment that contains more copper. Copper runs cooler and saves energy and money. The more the copper in electrical equipment windings and cabling, less costly energy is lost as heat because copper is the most efficient conductor available. The law of physics says that all electrical equipment wastes energy in the form of heat. It is expressed as: 12R, where I = current and R = resistance. Sit down with your plant engineer or facilities manager. Compare the costs and compare the savings. You will find that energy efficient electrical equipment and cabling put the 12R law on your side.
· Check your outlet wiring. Many power outlets are improperly wired. The most common problem is reverse polarity where the hot and neutral wires are reversed. The second most common problem is an open ground or none existing ground wire connection
Conclusion
Modern electrical equipment imposes stringent demands on voltage stability and wave shape. The power network should have low distortion values and be free from harmonics.
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