Name: John Emad
Sec: 2
BN: 2
Chapter 25 Summary: "Transmission of Electrical Energy"
Source: T. Wildi, *Electrical Machines, Drives and Power Systems*, Sixth
International Edition, Pearson Education Inc., 2006.
1)Overview of Electrical Transmission Systems
Electric power transmission is crucial for delivering energy across regions to meet
consumer and industrial demands. In this chapter, Wildi explains that transmission
systems are responsible for carrying electricity from power plants to distribution
networks, ultimately reaching homes and businesses. The primary goal in this
process is to minimize energy losses that occur naturally during transmission,
ensuring that most of the generated power reaches its destination.
One of the central themes in the chapter is the distinction between high-voltage
alternating current (AC) and high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission.
Each system has unique characteristics that make it suitable for different
applications. Wildi details how high-voltage levels are essential in transmission to
reduce energy loss, as power losses in a transmission line are proportional to the
square of the current (I²R losses). By increasing voltage, transmission systems can
reduce current, thereby lowering the amount of energy lost as heat and enabling
longer transmission distances.
2) Transmission Line Design and Loss Minimization
A critical aspect of transmission line design is reducing losses through the selection
of proper materials, voltage levels, and line configurations. Wildi explains that
transmission lines are constructed from highly conductive materials like aluminum
and copper to enhance efficiency. In addition, transmission towers and insulators
support and isolate high-voltage lines, ensuring safe and stable power flow.
Wildi also discusses how the structure and placement of transmission lines impact
efficiency and stability. Transmission lines are classified into overhead and
underground systems. Overhead lines, commonly seen on transmission towers, are
less expensive but are subject to environmental factors such as weather and
temperature changes. Underground cables, while protected from weather, are more
expensive to install and maintain. Each configuration comes with trade-offs in cost,
reliability, and environmental impact.
3)AC vs. DC Transmission Systems
An essential part of Chapter 25 is Wildi’s analysis of alternating current (AC) and
direct current (DC) systems in transmission.AC transmission is widely used in the
industry due to its ease of voltage transformation using transformers, making it
ideal for general distribution networks. However, for long-distance transmission,
high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems are often preferred due to their lower
line losses and enhanced stability over extensive distances.
The chapter provides insights into HVDC converter stations that enable the
conversion between AC and DC, which is necessary when interfacing with existing
AC grids. These converter stations play a critical role in integrating HVDC lines
into a predominantly AC power grid, facilitating efficient long-distance power
transfer with minimal loss.
Key Advantages and Applications:
- HVDC: Suitable for long-distance transmission and undersea cables, where AC
losses are higher.
- AC: Cost-effective for shorter distances, ideal for distribution networks due to
easy voltage transformation.
4)Transmission Infrastructure: Components and Materials
The chapter outlines the major components of the transmission infrastructure;
including transformers, insulators, circuit breakers, and substations. Transformers
play a vital role by stepping up the voltage for transmission and stepping it down
for distribution. This transformation allows for efficient energy transfer across
different stages of the power system.
Insulators prevent leakage and maintain the integrity of high-voltage lines, while
circuit breakers protect the system by disconnecting faulty sections to prevent
overloads and failures. Wildi emphasizes the use of steel, glass, porcelain, and
composite materials in these components to withstand high voltages and
environmental stresses.
5)Environmental and Economic Considerations
The chapter also addresses the economic and environmental challenges of power
transmission. Constructing transmission lines requires careful planning to
minimize land use, visual impact, and environmental disruption. Transmission
infrastructure involves significant capital investment, and ongoing maintenance is
necessary to ensure reliability and safety.
Wildi highlights that geographical and environmental factors influence the design,
placement, and cost of transmission lines. For example, rugged terrain may
increase construction costs, and densely populated areas may require underground
cabling, which is more expensive than overhead lines but reduces visual and
environmental impact.
6)Conclusion
Chapter 25 of Wildi’s book offers an in-depth look at the principles, infrastructure,
and challenges associated with electrical power transmission. By focusing on loss
reduction, voltage optimization, and the selection of appropriate transmission
systems (AC or HVDC), the chapter explains how electrical energy is transmitted
reliably and efficiently from generation to consumption. It underscores the
complexity of balancing technical, economic, and environmental factors to build
sustainable and resilient power transmission systems.
