What is a Distribution System?

The part of the power system that

distributes electric power for local use is called
as distribution system. Generally, a distribution
system is the electrical system between the
substation fed by transmission system and the
consumer’s meters. A typical distribution system
is shown in the figure.
Components of Distribution System
 Distribution Sub-Station – A distribution sub-
station is the electrical system which transfers
power from transmission system to the
distribution system of an area.

 Feeders – A feeder is a conductor which connects

the distribution sub-station to the area where
power is to be distributed. The current in a feeder
remains the same throughout its length because
no tapings are taken from it. The main
consideration in the design of a feeder being its
current carrying capacity.
 Distribution Transformers – The distribution transformer is a
step-down transformer in which primary and secondary are delta
and star connected respectively. It is also termed as service
transformer. The output voltage of distribution transformer is 440
V in 3-phase system whereas 230 V in 1-phase system.

 Distributor – A distributor is a conductor from which tapings are

taken for supply to the consumers. Due to the taping is done at
various places in a distributor, the current being not same
throughout its length. The main design consideration of a
distributor is the voltage drop across its length because the
statutory limit of voltage variations is ± 6 % of rated voltage at the
consumer’s terminals.

 Service Mains – Service Mains is a small cable which connects the

distributor to the consumer’s meter.
Types of AC Distribution System
1. Primary Distribution System
The primary distribution system is the part of AC
distribution system which operates at voltages slightly
higher than general utilization. The voltage used for
primary distribution depends upon the amount power to be
transferred and distance of substation required to be fed.
The commonly used primary distribution voltages in the
Philippines are 13.2 kV, 13.8 kV, 23 kV, or 34.5 kV.
2. Secondary Distribution System
The secondary distribution system includes those
ranges of voltage at which consumer utilizes the electrical
energy. The secondary distribution employs 220V, 230V, or
240V.
According to scheme of connections, the distribution systems an
classified as:

As you might expect, you can use combinations of these three systems, and
this is frequently done.
1. Radial System
In this System of distribution, the distributors are fed
at one end only. It is the cheapest to build, and is
widely used in sparsely populated areas.

A radial system has only one power source for a group

of customers. A power failure, short-circuit, or a
downed power line would interrupt power in the
entire line which must be fixed before power can be
restored.
2. Loop/Ring System

In this system, each consumer is supplied via two feeders.

The arrangement is similar to two feeders in parallel on
different routes. A loop system, as the name implies,
loops through the service area and returns to the
original point. The loop is usually tied into an alternate
power source. By placing switches in strategic
locations, the utility can supply power to the customer
from either direction.

If one source of power fails, switches are thrown

(automatically or manually), and power can be fed to
customers from the other source.
The loop system provides better continuity of service
than the radial system, with only short interruptions
for switching. In the event of power failures due to
faults on the line, the utility has only to find the fault
and switch around it to restore service. The fault itself
can then be repaired with a minimum of customer
interruptions.
The loop system is more expensive than the radial
because more switches and conductors are required,
but the resultant improved system reliability is often
worth the price.
3. Primary Network Systems
When two or more generating stations are connected
together. The system is known as interconnected
system. Reliability of the system increased in this case. it
is most useful classification of distribution system.

Network systems are the most complicated and are

interlocking loop systems. A given customer can be
supplied from two, three, four, or more different power
supplies. Obviously, the big advantage of such a system
is added reliability. However, it is also the most
expensive. For this reason it is usually used only in
congested, high load density municipal or downtown
areas.
Requirements of a Distribution System
Some of the requirements of a good distribution system are :
 Proper Voltage – The voltage variations at consumer’s
terminals should be as low as possible. The statutory limit
of voltage variations is ± 6 % of the rated voltage at
consumer’s terminals.

 Availability of Power on Demand – The electric power

must be available to the consumers in any amount that
they may require from time to time.

 Reliability – The modern industry is almost dependent

on electric power for its operation. This calls for reliable
service as much possible.
Distribution Lines
Distribution Transformer

Pole Mounted Pad Mounted

Distribution Substation
Power Transformer
Transmission & Distribution Utility

Refers to any electric cooperative, private corporation,

government- or local government unit (LGU)-owned
utility that has been granted an exclusive franchise to
operate a transmission or distribution system.
Thank you and
God Bless!