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An introduction to World Power Standards

Three phase rules supreme

In almost all areas, power is generated and distributed as a three phase suppy. Only the voltage, frequency, and end presentation differ. Further than that, the world breaks down into two camps, which are basically:

1. Single phase voltage is measured between phase (live) and neutral terminals.
2. Three phase voltage is measured between two phase (live) terminals

Where three phase power is used with non-linear loads (such as stage lighting systems) it's important to note that nasty things happen with harmonics that can cause a large current to flow in the neutral conductor, larger in fact than any one of the phase currents. This is all a bit of a nightmare, which is why we have a section devoted to it.