Short Answer:
A feeder is a power line that transmits electricity from a substation to distribution points without tapping any load along the way. It carries high-voltage electricity to distribution transformers or secondary substations.
A distributor, on the other hand, is a power line that directly supplies electricity to consumers. Unlike a feeder, a distributor has multiple tapping points where loads like homes, industries, and businesses draw power. Distributors operate at lower voltages compared to feeders and are responsible for final power delivery to end users.
Detailed Explanation
Both feeders and distributors are important parts of the power distribution system, but they serve different purposes.
Feeder
-
- Definition: A feeder is a power line that transmits electricity from a substation to distribution transformers or another substation without direct consumer connections.
- Purpose: Carries bulk electricity from substations to the distribution system.
- Voltage Level: Operates at higher voltages (e.g., 11kV, 33kV, or more) to minimize power loss.
- Load Connection: No load is tapped along the feeder; all power is delivered at the end point.
- Example: A high-voltage transmission line carrying power from a substation to a smaller distribution transformer.
Distributor
-
- Definition: A distributor is a power line that supplies electricity directly to consumers from the distribution transformer.
- Purpose: Provides electrical power to homes, industries, and businesses.
- Voltage Level: Operates at lower voltages (e.g., 230V, 400V, or 11kV) to match consumer requirements.
- Load Connection: Consumers tap power at multiple points along the distributor.
- Example: A low-voltage power line supplying electricity to houses in a residential area.
Difference Between Feeder and Distributors
-
- Power Flow: Feeders transport power without direct connections, while distributors supply power with multiple connections to consumers.
- Voltage: Feeders operate at higher voltages for efficiency, while distributors use lower voltages for consumer safety.
- Function: Feeders act as transmission lines, while distributors handle final power delivery.
Conclusion
A feeder is a high-voltage line that carries electricity from a substation to a distribution point without any consumer connections, ensuring efficient power transmission. A distributor is a lower-voltage line that directly supplies electricity to consumers, allowing multiple connections. Both feeders and distributors are essential for ensuring reliable and efficient power distribution in electrical networks.