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In this note, we are going to learn about the Causes of Technical Losses and Process to Reduce Them. Welcome to Poly Notes Hub, a leading destination for engineering notes for diploma and degree engineering students.

Author Name: Arun Paul.

Causes of Technical Losses in Electrical Systems

Technical Losses in electrical systems are caused by the intrinsic qualities of the equipment and conductors used in the transmission and distribution of power. These losses are primarily manifested as heat, which wastes energy that could otherwise be used productively. Here’s a detailed look at the sources of technical losses and how to reduce them in the context of the given strategies:

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Types of Technical Losses and Process to Reduce Technical Losses

1. Controlling I²R Losses

Controlling I²R losses aims to reduce resistive losses caused by electrical current flowing through conductors. Copper losses (I²R) are proportional to the square of the conductor’s current (I) and resistance (R). Reducing these losses is critical to increasing the efficiency of electrical power transmission and distribution networks.

Causes	Process to Reduce
1. Copper losses, or I²R losses, occur when current (I) travels through conductors with resistance (R). These losses rise with the square of the current, therefore they are considerable in high-current conditions.	1. Use conductors with greater cross-sectional areas or those made of low-resistance materials, such as aluminum or high-conductivity copper.
2. Resistance increases with poor conductor material and a limited conductor cross-sectional area.	2. Implement more localized power generation and decentralized grid technologies to reduce the distance over which electricity must be delivered.
3. Long transmission distances increase resistance, resulting in I²R losses.	3. To decrease resistance at these areas, make sure that all joints and connections are secure and of excellent quality.

2. Optimizing Distribution Voltage

Optimizing distribution voltage means modifying and maintaining voltage levels in electrical power distribution systems in order to reduce energy losses and increase overall efficiency and reliability of electricity supply.

Causes	Process to Reduce
1. Inefficient voltage levels can result in larger current flow for the same power, resulting to higher I²R losses.	1. Distribute electricity at higher voltages, then scale it down at consumption sites. Higher voltage transmission reduces current for a given power level, resulting in lower I²R losses.
2. Under-voltage circumstances can cause loads to draw more current, hence increasing losses.	2. Implement voltage regulation devices to ensure that voltage levels are consistent across the distribution network.

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3. Balancing Phase Currents

Balancing phase currents is the practice of distributing electrical loads evenly across the three phases of a three-phase power system. This balance is critical for increasing the efficiency and reliability of the power distribution system, as well as lowering technical losses.

Causes	Process to Reduce
1. Unbalanced loads over three phases of an electrical system cause unequal current distribution, resulting in increased losses in the phase with the highest current.	1. Loads between phases should be monitored and adjusted on a regular basis to guarantee balance. This can be accomplished via phase-shifting transformers or by re-phasing loads.
2. Unbalanced currents increase neutral conductor losses, which can lead to transformer losses.	2. Implement automatic phase balancing devices that modify load distribution in real time to keep phase currents balanced.

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4. Compensating Reactive Power Flow

Compensating reactive power flow is the process of controlling and balancing reactive power in an electrical power system in order to increase its efficiency and reliability. Reactive power is a type of electrical power that oscillates between the source and the load but does not accomplish any actual work. Proper reactive power management is critical for reducing losses, maintaining voltage levels, and increasing overall power system performance.

Causes	Process to Reduce
1. Reactive power adds to total current flow, leading to increased I²R losses, although not performing any actual work.	1. Install capacitor banks at strategic locations across the distribution network to adjust for inductive loads and reduce reactive power flow.
2. Inductive loads, such as motors and transformers, use reactive power, resulting in inefficiencies.	2. Use synchronous condensers to dynamically compensate for reactive power.

5. Demand Side Management

Demand Side Management (DSM) refers to a set of tactics for modifying and controlling consumer energy demand in order to improve the power system’s efficiency and dependability. DSM refers to measures made on the consumer side of the electricity meter to change energy usage patterns, such as adjusting the time of use, reducing overall consumption, or increasing energy efficiency.

Causes	Process to Reduce
1. High peak demand puts a pressure on the distribution network, resulting in increased losses.	1. Implement pricing techniques that encourage customers to move their usage to off-peak hours, thereby minimizing peak demand and accompanying losses.
2. Inefficient energy use patterns lead to wasteful losses and higher demand during peak hours.	2. Encourage the use of energy-efficient equipment and lighting to help minimize overall energy use.