2.4 kV Versus 4.

16 kV

http://www.lasalleboaters.com/fundamentals/dvpvpt.asp

2.4 kV Versus 4.16 kV

When a plant's supply transformer capacity totals less than about 10,000 kVA, the cost of substations, primary switchgear and cable feeders tends to favor a primary voltage of 4,160 Volts. There are many 2,400-Volt distribution systems, but for new systems, 4,160-Volts will generally prove to be more economical. Nominal 5 kV switchgear is used for both voltages. A 1,200-amp breaker on a 4,160-Volt system can serve the same load as a 2,000-amp breaker on a 2,400-Volt system. The higher short circuit currents at 2,400-Volts can increase breaker costs. Cable and transformer costs will be comparable for the two voltages. The number and size of large motors can affect the choice of voltage. As a general rule, both motors and controls cost less at 2,300-Volts for motors up to 1,000 hp. Between 1,250 and 2,000 hp, 2,300-Volt motors will be less costly, but their control will be more costly. From 2,500 to 5,000 hp, the motor costs are the same, but control will be less costly at 4,000-Volts. Above 3,000 hp, 4,000-Volt motors are standard. However, these large motors are often served from an isolated transformer for convenience, and to isolate them from the rest of the system to reduce effects of starting currents. In these cases, the motor selection may not dictate voltage used for general distribution.

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12/21/2012 10:20 AM