In this note, we are going to learn about the Current Limiting Reactors or CLR. Uses and Arrangements of Current Limiting Reactors. Welcome to Poly Notes Hub, a leading destination for Engineering Notes Syllabus-Wise.
Author Name: Arun Paul.
What are Current Limiting Reactors?
A Current Limiting Reactor (CLR) is a type of inductive reactor used in electrical power systems to control the amount of current flowing during a short-circuit or under high load situations. Its primary application is to safeguard power system components such as transformers, generators, and transmission lines from damage caused by high currents.
A Current Limiting Reactor operates on the principle of inductance. When a short circuit or heavy load occurs, the CLR’s reactance kicks in, limiting the flow of current. By increasing resistance to the circuit, the CLR lowers the short-circuit current to a safe level for the device. This helps to avoid overheating and damage to the power system components.
By reducing the strain on components during transient conditions, Current Limiting Reactors can preserve equipment while also enhancing the stability and dependability of the power system. They are frequently utilized in substations and high-voltage transmission networks where overloads and short circuits are a major concern.
Uses of Current Limiting Reactors
Electrical power systems employ Current Limiting Reactors (CLRs) for –
- Protecting equipment by limiting short-circuit currents.
- Preventing damage from overload circumstances.
- Regulating voltage levels.
- Improving power quality by lowering harmonics.
- Improves transient stability.
- Preventing cascading failures in interconnected grids.
Arrangements of Current Limiting Reactors
Current Limiting Reactors (CLRs) are often connected in series with the equipment they are designed to safeguard in electrical power networks. They are carefully placed in areas with a high danger of short-circuit currents or overloads. This positioning guarantees that the CLR efficiently limits current flow to a safe level, protecting transformers, generators, transmission lines, and other critical components. CLRs can also be put in parallel or in banks, depending on the unique requirements of the power system and the amount of current limiting required.