International Mains Systems.

[daKlone]

Hi All,

I am working on a power distribution unit that has to be used internationally, and am not an expert on the various mains supply systems used throughout the world.

Does anyone have any info on the sorts of supply it's likely to face and what the differences are?

Any suggestions appreciated.

Regards,
daKlone

 

[avishai]

daKlone hi ,
It is quite simple you have to be able to answer three questions :
1 - what is the tension in the coutry in question ( how many volts)
2 - What is the frequency 50Hz or 60Hz .
3 - what quind of system they are using with earth or without earth .
With this information you can describe which device you want to use : for example if it is a socket for power system you have to know which kind to use .
The more complicated issue is if the country where you amed to is requiering a special satndard for electrical power system but that you can know only on a coutry base.
If you want more details ask me and I will try to help ,
A.Rash BScEE & PE
a_rash@bigfoot.com

 

[don01]

hi daklone
Do a search in the search box above having ticked keyword
and use some thing like international standards and voltages.
This will return several threads on this subject including one I initiated about 6 months ago and a lot of the guys here put up thier local stuff.

hope that helps
Don

 

[dydt]

If you are working on a low voltage distribution system, the best way to get an info. is going to a UPS manufacturer site ( Uninterruptible Power Supply ). They have quite a selection of voltage from 100V ( Japan for example ) to 600V. Pay more attention on the neutral/grounding system.

Otherwise, the long but effective way is to check each country you want to sell your product and do a "system or
utilization voltage" search using the internet...

good luck
dydt

 

[daKlone]

Thanks guys.