Short Answer:

A feeder system in power distribution is used to carry electricity from the distribution substation to various load areas such as residential zones, commercial buildings, and industries. It works by using high-capacity cables or overhead lines that transmit power in bulk to different locations where it is further distributed.

The feeder system operates without any tapping in between, ensuring continuous and efficient flow of power from the substation to distribution transformers. It plays a key role in dividing the power supply into multiple routes, maintaining voltage levels, and reducing losses during delivery.

Detailed Explanation:

Feeder system in power distribution

A feeder system is an important part of the electrical distribution network. It is responsible for transporting electricity from the distribution substation to various local areas or loads, such as housing societies, factories, and markets. Feeders are designed to carry a large amount of current and are the first stage of distribution after the voltage is stepped down in the substation.

Feeder lines are usually overhead conductors or underground cables with strong insulation and are built to handle high current loads. Their main function is to deliver power efficiently from the substation to multiple distribution transformers located in different regions.

Unlike service mains (which directly supply electricity to the user) or distributors (which may have multiple branches and consumers), feeders do not have any consumer connection along their route. They are dedicated solely to transporting electricity from the source point to various distribution points.

Working of feeder system

1. Power flow from substation:
   Electricity from the substation enters the feeder system after being stepped down to a distribution voltage (commonly 11 kV or 33 kV). This power is then sent through the feeders to various local areas.
2. No tapping along the feeder:
   Feeders are constructed in such a way that there is no tapping or load connection between the substation and the destination point. This helps in reducing voltage drop and improving power quality.
3. Connection to distribution transformers:
   At the end of the feeder or at specific points along the route, the feeder is connected to distribution transformers. These transformers further step down the voltage (to 415 V or 230 V) and supply it to end users.
4. Load management:
   Each feeder is designed to handle a certain amount of electrical load. If the load increases beyond capacity, it can cause overheating or voltage drop. That’s why proper planning and load balancing across multiple feeders is important.
5. Protection and control:
   Feeders are equipped with protection devices like circuit breakers, relays, and isolators. In case of faults like short circuits, these devices disconnect the faulty feeder to avoid damage and keep the rest of the system working.

Importance of feeder system

• Efficient power distribution: By dividing the total load into smaller parts and supplying them through separate feeders, the overall system works more efficiently.
• Better fault isolation: When a fault occurs, only the faulty feeder can be disconnected without affecting the rest of the network.
• Voltage regulation: As there are no tappings, the voltage drop is minimum, which helps maintain proper voltage at the consumer end.
• Easy maintenance: Since feeders are separate from user connections, they can be repaired or maintained without disturbing the end users.

Feeders are classified into types such as radial feeders, ring feeders, and interconnected feeders, depending on the design of the distribution system. Each has its own advantages and is chosen based on area size, reliability needs, and load distribution.

Conclusion:

A feeder system in power distribution works by carrying electrical power from substations to different load areas without direct consumer connections. It ensures smooth, controlled, and efficient delivery of electricity, helping maintain voltage levels and reliability. Feeders are essential for dividing and managing power flow, ensuring that electricity reaches every area with minimal loss and maximum safety.