Did you know that there are over 55,000 substations and 450,000 miles of high-voltage transmission lines in the United States? We use electricity every day and its complex systems can create a lot of misconceptions about substation components. Below, take a look at the five common misconceptions about electrical substations and what they are.
What Is a Substation?
Electrical substations are facilities that work as the interface between the distribution grid and transmission systems. These areas transform electricity into a voltage that can travel in the transmission lines and that is suitable for the distribution grid.
1. Substations Power Communities
One of the most common misconceptions about power substations is the belief that they are used only to power industrial facilities. On the contrary, substations power many different sources, and they can be categorized by their various functions and roles. Step-up and step-down substations increase and decrease the voltage so it can be transmitted efficiently.
These are the different types of substations:
- Mobile stations
- Transmission stations
- Underground stations
- Collector stations
2. What to Do With Downed Lines
One myth that could be potentially dangerous for people is the suggestion that when a power line falls it becomes dead. This is not good advice, in fact, if you see a downed line near a substation, you should stay away, even if you don’t see sparks. Make sure you inform the authorities immediately so that a trained person can take care of the issue.
3. Voltage Can’t Kill You
Many people are afraid of going near an electrical substation because they are afraid of being killed by voltage. Despite these fears, voltage won’t kill you, but amperage will. The average house has between 100 and 200 amps that run through it, and just one amp can cause irregularities in the heart. So you can feel a little safer when you go next to another substation.
4. Substation Projects Are Difficult
Work-life can be hard enough, especially when dealing with timing and budgeting on a big project. If you are looking to reduce your workload, Peak Substation Services is the one-stop shop for substation projects. You can use our resources to make the process of substation packaging, design, distribution, manufacturing, and construction a great resource for you.
Your benefits can include the advantages of our experience and network. We can help provide budget information, purchase and receive materials, and ship to destinations all over. This can help you save time and money on your projects.
5. Power Outages
Another common misconception is that power outages are due to overwhelming the grid, and they put the blame on large power companies. In fact, most of the power outages that occur happen because of severe weather events which can damage power lines and poles. This has been a classic issue that interrupts power sources, which is why officials invest in the maintenance and removal of potential threats like trees or greenery.
The Importance of Electrical Substations
Electrical substations are an incredibly important part of the infrastructure for local homes, businesses, and ways of life. They provide the means for people to have safe electricity very easily.