In underground cable and overhead line difference, we have seen the basic concepts of the transmission and distribution networks.
The main function of these networks is to efficiently transport the electricity and to build an entire power system of generation to consumption.
In this article, we will study what is the difference between Transmission and Distribution Line.
Transmission vs. Distribution Power Lines
Let’s compare the transmission and distribution lines with multiple specifications.
| 01 | What is transmission and distribution system? | The network of the conductors carries the bulk electrical power from the generating power station to substations. This network is called a Transmission system. | The network of the conductors carries electrical power from the substations to the consumers’ end. This network is called a Distribution system |
| 02 | Signal & Three Phase System | The transmission system requires a three-phase three-wire (i.e. delta connection) system. | The distribution system requires A three-phase four-wire or single phase (i.e. star connection) system. |
| 03 | Carrying capacity of Voltage | It carries an extra-high voltage (range from 69 kV to 765 kV). | It carries a low voltage (range from 220 V to below 69kV). |
| 04 | Carrying capacity of Current | It has a high current carrying capacity. | It has a low current carrying capacity. |
| 05 | Size of the conductor | Transmission lines are thicker than the distribustion lines. | Distribution lines are thinner than transmission lines. |
| 06 | Types of Transmission and distribustion lines | The transmission system is classified into three parts. – Long transmission lines – Medium transmission lines – Short transmission lines | The distribution system is classified into three parts. – Radial distribution lines – Ring distribution lines – Interconnected distribution lines |
| 07 | Power transmission and distribution | Transmission lines are designed to transfer large amounts of power over a long distance. | Distribution lines are designed to transfer small amounts of power over a short distance. |
| 08 | Insulation | It is not insulated. | It is mostly insulated. |
| 09 | Tower Construction | A high length tower is mostly constructed to support overhead tramsimission lines. | A small length tower is mostly constructed to support overhead distribution lines as compared to the transmission lines tower. |
If you have any queries regarding transmission vs distribution power lines, drop your comment below.
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- On-Grid system vs Off-Grid system
I have completed master in Electrical Power System. I work and write technical tutorials on the PLC, MATLAB programming, and Electrical on DipsLab.com portal.
Sharing my knowledge on this blog makes me happy. And sometimes I delve in Python programming.