Electric Power Principles, 2nd Edition

1Electric Power Systems

There are many different types of power systems, such as the propulsion systems in automobiles and trucks, and the hydraulic systems used in some industrial robots and for actuating scoops and blades in digging equipment. All power systems have certain fundamental elements. There is some sort of prime mover (such as a gasoline engine), a means of transport of the power produced (such as the drive shaft, transmission, differential, and axles), and a means of using that power (wheels on the road). The focus of this book is on electric power systems, in which the means of transporting energy is the flow of electrical current against an electric potential (voltage). There are many different types of electric power systems, including the electrical systems in cars and trucks, and propulsion systems in electric trains and cruise ships. The primary focus in this book will be the kinds of electric power systems incorporated in public utilities, but it must be kept in mind that all electric power systems have many features in common. Thus the lessons learned here will have applicability well beyond the utility system.

It has become all too easy to take for granted the electric utility service that is ubiquitous in developed countries. Electric utilities are wired to nearly every business and residence, and standardized levels of voltage and frequency permit a wide range of appliances to be simply plugged in and operated. Consumers don’t have to give any thought ...