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The secret journey of electricity transmission: What goes on from the power plant to the power supply in your home?
The operation of modern society almost depends on electricity, but the transmission process of electricity is often overlooked by people. Starting with electricity being generated at a power plant, the journey, known as electricity transmission, involves numerous technologies and systems working together to deliver it to our homes and workplaces.
Electricity transmission is the process of transporting electrical energy on a large scale from power generating stations to power distribution stations. This series of interconnected wires constitutes the transmission network.
The process of power transmission
The first step in power generation is the generation of electrical energy. Electricity is usually generated in power plants. Depending on the method of power generation, the voltage at which the electricity is generated will vary, generally ranging from 2.3 kV to 30 kV. The generated electricity is then stepped up through transformers for long-distance transmission, with the voltage reaching 765 kV and above.
Efficient long-distance transmission requires the use of high voltage because it reduces the energy loss caused by high currents.
High voltage power transmission technology
Main transmission lines in North America are typically high voltage, three-phase alternating current. Although single-phase AC is used in some railroad electrification systems, DC transmission is more efficient over long distances, especially over several hundred miles. High-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology is used for power exchange between submarine cables and asynchronous power grids. This method can stabilize the power distribution network and reduce the risk of failure.
Structure of power distribution system
The distribution system and transmission system of electricity complement each other. The transmission network usually consists of multiple power plants, substations and power transmission lines. To ensure that power is delivered efficiently and reliably, these systems involve limiting the management of current flow, as well as balancing loads and supplies.
During the power generation process, it is necessary to ensure that the rate of power generation matches the rate of power consumption, otherwise it will lead to system imbalance and even large-scale power outages.
Challenges of High Voltage Transmission Lines
The main conductor material used in high-voltage transmission lines is aluminum alloy, which has the advantages of light weight and low cost. However, as voltages increase, conductor design must also take climate factors into account. Severe weather conditions such as strong winds or extremely low temperatures may affect the stability of the transmission.
Applications of underground cables
In some cities or environmentally sensitive areas, electricity can also be transmitted through underground cables. While underground cables are more expensive to install, they have lower visibility and are less susceptible to weather, which makes them a good choice in certain areas. However, once an underground cable fails, it takes a relatively long time to find and repair it.
Historical Background of Electric Power Transmission
As early as the 19th century, the technology for transmitting electricity had already taken shape. Initially, direct current was limited because its voltage could not be flexibly adjusted, and power plants were mostly located close to where electricity was needed. It was not until 1881 that the introduction of alternating current made long-distance power transmission possible, a technological innovation that led to the rapid development of the global power grid.
As technology continues to advance, the integration between DC and AC systems is driving the evolution of the power industry.
The future of power transmission
Looking into the future, with the rise of renewable energy and the global demand for sustainable development, the way electricity is transmitted will continue to evolve. New transmission technologies will continue to be developed to improve efficiency and stability and to address challenges related to climate change.
The entire process of power transmission is quite complex, involving close interaction between technologies and systems. However, have you ever thought about how many unknown factors are hidden in this long journey between end users and power plants? What is the well-known story?
