What are low voltage and medium voltage electricity? Many of you might be curious about these two types of electrical voltage.

As we know, electricity is an integral part of our modern lives. Its usage is not limited to household needs but also spans various industrial sectors.

In fact, the electricity we use is categorized based on the voltage used. Two important categories are low voltage and medium voltage electricity.

This article will discuss what low voltage and medium voltage electricity are, their differences, and examples of equipment using these types of electricity.

Low Voltage Electricity

Low voltage electricity refers to electrical systems with low voltage, usually below 1,000 volts (V). Low voltage is generally used for applications safe for humans and is often found in household, commercial, and some industrial environments.

The use of low voltage electricity includes household electrical installations consuming about 220-240V, lighting systems consuming 12-24V in LED lights, and everyday electronic devices like computers and household appliances.

Low voltage electricity tends to be easier in terms of installation and maintenance. Its voltage level is manageable by humans, making it frequently used in environments requiring high safety levels.

Medium Voltage Electricity

Medium voltage electricity refers to electrical systems with medium voltage, usually between 1,000 and 35,000 volts (1-35 kV). Medium voltage is used to transmit electricity from power plants to main distribution points or from main distribution points to sub-distribution networks.

Applications of medium voltage electricity include electrical distribution in industrial areas, high-power electric motor drives in factories, and power transmission systems in urban areas.

Using medium voltage enables more efficient electricity transportation with lower energy losses and supports larger electrical loads.

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Differences Between Low Voltage and Medium Voltage Electricity

1. Voltage Levels

The most fundamental difference between low voltage and medium voltage electricity is their respective voltage ranges. Low voltage operates below 1,000 V, while medium voltage operates between 1,000 and 35,000 V. 

2. Applications

Low voltage electricity is commonly used for household and small commercial needs, such as electronic devices, lighting, and small machinery. In contrast, medium voltage electricity is used in industrial applications, medium-distance electrical distribution, and large commercial installations like factories and high-rise buildings.

3. Human Safety

Due to its lower voltage, low voltage electricity is relatively safer for humans, with less dangerous shock risks. Conversely, medium voltage electricity requires extra safety measures due to its higher risk of electric shock and fire.

4. Distribution Purpose

Low voltage electricity facilitates distribution from distribution panels to end equipment. On the other hand, medium voltage electricity handles distribution from power plants to substations or from substations to final distribution networks.

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Low Voltage and Medium Voltage Electrical Equipment

The equipment used for low voltage and medium voltage electricity has slight differences. This is because the electrical equipment is designed with respective capacities that may not handle smaller or larger voltages.

Some low voltage electrical equipment can be found in daily use, particularly for household needs. For example, the Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) protects electrical circuits from overload or short circuits. Additionally, switches and sockets, commonly found in every home, control lights and everyday electronic devices.

In contrast, the equipment used for medium voltage electricity is more complex with higher capacity due to its larger voltage level and different applications, requiring more reliable equipment. Some common medium voltage electrical equipment includes transformers, which convert high voltage to medium voltage or medium voltage to low voltage. There are also inverters or Variable Speed Drives that control the speed and movement of machines, and Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) that provide backup power to machines or other equipment during disturbances or outages.

Reliable, safe, and high-quality low voltage and medium voltage electrical equipment is crucial as your primary choice for managing electrical installations at home or in industries. You can find various low voltage and medium voltage electrical equipment at Mitra Cipta Hardi Elektrindo, which offers a range of the best products for all your needs.

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