The Prominent Types of Reactors, And Their Use in Power System
Reactor has many roles to play in electrical power system. However, there are two main reasons for the use reactors in the power distribution system. First, it can be used in a substation connected to the receiving-end of long, high-voltage, transmission lines to control the voltage. Second it is used the substation connected to strong system here the fault current might exceed the interrupting capability of circuit breakers to reduce the available fault current.
Reactors are used in large industries where power distribution system is used or large residential projects with independent power transmission lines. Reactors which are also known as power limiting reactors reduce the fault currents – the currents generated due to short circuit in the power distribution system. The short circuit hugely increases the voltage at the receiving ends, which may result in the damage to electric devices, machines, etc if there is no proper system like reactors to control the flow of fault currents.
There are different types of reactors, and each is intended to perform some certain functions in a way different way. So reactors should be chosen based on the purpose and structure of the power distribution system.
If you are looking for reactors, there are some prominent types of reactors, and having a look at them will help you choose the right one for you.
- Shunt Reactor
- Current Limiting and Neutral Earthing Reactor
- Damping Reactor
- Tuning Reactor
- Earthing Transformer
- Arc Suppression Reactor
- Smoothing Reactor etc.
Shunt reactor
The reactor is used in parallel order in the system, and its main use to make up the capacitive component of current in the system. In simple words it is used to absorb the reactive power generated due to the fault in transmission lines.
Shunt reactors come in both single and three phase, which depends on the structure of the power system. They can be either air cooled or iron cored. There are a few renowned reactor manufactures in the USA that make reactors with features like additional loading winding used to supply alternative power to the system.
Series Reactor
All current limiting reactors are series reactors which are connected in the system in series. Their main function is to stop or reduce the fault current in the system and thereby prevent the system from getting damaged. Series reactors also help ensure balanced load sharing in a parallel power network.
Series reactor may also be connected in series in the feeder or electrical bus. They help to minimize the effect of short circuit fault at other parts of the system. You can check here the uses and benefits of reactors before you kick start your search for a renowned reactor manufacturer in the USA.