Voltage Optimisation - VO

Voltage optimisation is an innovative technology that helps organisations make significant financial savings on their energy bills by reducing and regulating the mains voltage used to power electrical equipment. There are a two main families of engineering solution that fall under this category, both of which can deliver a return on investment with minimal on going maintenance requirements.

Fixed ratio transformers

This option is ideal for sites with a reasonably steady voltage supply. A number of secondary tap down options allows fixed voltage reductions typically between 3&12%. The output voltage will be equal to the incoming site voltage less the selected tapping; therefore the output voltage will fluctuate proportionally. Fixed ratio transformers offer a cheaper but cruder alternative to the more high-tech voltage stabilisers.

Voltage Stabilisers

This option is often preferred and can generate savings of up to 25%. Stabilisers are typically used where the incoming supply quality fluctuates. The unit will regulate the output to a pre-commissioned set point even during power dips, maintaining a steady optimum voltage level, which increases the stability and longevity of the load bearing equipment.

Load types and associated benefits of VO

Electrical loads can be separated into two main families, these are known as resistive and inductive. As each of these reacts differently to voltage optimisation, they will benefit in different ways.

Inductive Loads

An inductive or lagging load immediately pulls a large amount of current on start up before steadying out. Typical examples of inductive loads include washers, dryers, induction motors, pumps, fans and lighting ballasts.

Many inductive loads consume excess power and this can lead to higher energy losses than are necessary. In the case of motors further energy losses occur as a result of friction and copper losses. This excess voltage stresses the insulation, leading to diminishing equipment life. A voltage stabiliser is capable of balancing the phase voltages and regulating the output so that equipment doesn’t consume more power than is necessary.

Resistive Loads

Unlike inductive loads, resistive loads do not have any significant inrush current. This means that the current is in line with the voltage and rises immediately to a steady value. A resistive load is used to convert current into other forms of energy, such as heat.

A voltage optimiser will help a resistive load conserve power as well as extending the life of electronics. Less complex resistive loads such as light bulbs also have their consumption reduced and operating life extended by a stabilised voltage output. This can represent a huge reduction in the amount of labour resource allocated to replacing lamps, which is very difficult to put a value next to.

At Vector Ltd we can identify individual sites that would benefit from this technology and even advise on various financial support schemes where applicable.