Two-phase and Three-phase electric power

2023-06-05 11:43:54

Two-phase and Three-phase electric power

What is biphase electricity?
Bi-phase electricity means that the current and voltage of the power supply are composed of two phases. Two-phase power is usually used for low-wattage household appliances such as lamps, small power tools, and household appliances. In a two-phase electrical system, the phase difference between current and voltage is 90 degrees, which allows current and voltage to flow alternately through the two phases. For example, in the United States, two-phase electricity typically runs on 120 volts and 240 volts.

Two-phase electrical power was an early 20th-century polyphase alternating current electric power distribution system. Two circuits were used, with voltage phases differing by one-quarter of a cycle, 90°.

What is three-phase electricity?
Three-phase electricity means that the current and voltage of the power supply are composed of three phases. Three-phase electricity is commonly used in large electrical equipment such as electric motors, large industrial machines, and power transmission systems. In a three-phase electrical system, the phase difference between current and voltage is 120 degrees, which means that current and voltage can alternately flow between three phases, enabling higher power transmission efficiency. For example, in the United States, three-phase electricity usually uses voltages of 208 volts, 240 volts, 480 volts, and 600 volts.

Three-phase electric power (abbreviated 3φ) is a common type of alternating current (AC) used in electricity generation, transmission, and distribution.^[2] It is a type of polyphase system employing three wires (or four including an optional neutral return wire) and is the most common method used by electrical grids worldwide to transfer power.