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FACTS devices in modern power systems

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Flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) devices use power electronics to dynamically control voltage, impedance and phase angle in AC networks. They improve stability, boost transfer capacity, and enhance power quality in heavily loaded grids and those with high renewable penetration. Traditional transmission systems are rigid and slow to respond. FACTS devices solve this by adding voltage or current in a controlled way, either in series or parallel with the line. This real-time control helps reduce…

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Can your river power your home? A practical guide to small-scale hydro systems

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  Solar panels are common in off-grid setups, but they do not work well in cloudy, shaded, or seasonal conditions. If your land has a nearby stream or river, small-scale hydro power may be a reliable alternative. This guide explains how to assess your site and choose the right hydro system. Hydro power can offer continuous output where water flow is steady. But it is not as simple as placing a turbine in the water….

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How Long Do Scheduled Nuclear Reactor Shutdowns Take?

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  In nuclear power generation, not all shutdowns are emergencies. Many are planned well in advance for regular refuelling, equipment maintenance, or regulatory inspections. These scheduled outages are an essential part of operating a safe and efficient nuclear power plant. But how long do they take? And how do the timelines compare across global reactors and Indian facilities, especially those using Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) or Pressurised Water Reactors (PWRs)? Understanding this process requires…

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Hydropower Turbines: Types, Applications, and Global Trade

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  At the core of every hydropower plant is the turbine, the mechanical heart of the system. Hydropower works by converting the gravitational potential energy of stored water into kinetic energy as it flows downward. This movement drives a turbine, which in turn powers a generator to produce electricity. This article explores the different types of turbines used in hydropower plants and how they impact efficiency, cost, and performance. Hydropower turbines fall into two main…

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Transmission Tower Designs: Engineering Innovations and Grid Optimization

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While often seen as static, utilitarian structures, transmission towers embody intricate engineering designs tailored to handle multiple variables. These include the voltage level, conductor weight, environmental challenges, and the growing complexity of modern power grids. Over time, transmission tower designs have evolved with advancements in materials science, load optimization, and the grid’s shifting needs. Key Factors Influencing Transmission Tower Design The design of transmission towers hinges on multiple factors, including voltage level, environmental conditions, terrain,…

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Reactors in Transmission and Distribution

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Reactors help in controlling power flow, enhancing voltage stability, and minimizing the risk of faults within increasingly complex power systems. Reactive power, unlike active power, does not transfer energy from source to load but is necessary for voltage control and maintaining the stability of alternating current (AC) systems. Reactors, by providing inductive reactance, absorb excess reactive power in the system, thereby controlling voltage rise, which is especially important during light-load conditions or in long transmission…

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Guide to Wind Turbines: Technical Considerations and Insights

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At the heart of a wind turbine’s efficiency lies its design. The aerodynamic performance of the blades directly impacts power output. Modern blade designs incorporate advanced materials like carbon fibre-reinforced composites, enhancing durability while reducing weight. These materials improve load distribution across the rotor, allowing for larger blades and thus, greater energy capture. The challenge lies in balancing blade length with structural integrity. Longer blades generate more energy but exert greater forces on the tower…

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Transformer Protection: Ensuring Safety and Reliability in Power Systems

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Transformers face several risks and potential faults that, if left unaddressed, could lead to system failures. Transformers can experience both external and internal faults. External faults include short circuits, overloads, and over-voltages that originate outside the transformer but impact its operation. On the other hand, internal faults occur within the transformer itself and may include short circuits between turns or windings, ground faults, excessive temperature or pressure, and the loss of transformer oil. Each of…