Aspects about Loads Monitoring and Static Switching for Unbalanced Low-Voltage Distribution Networks

Power quality is a vital technical aspect for the proper functioning of power systems, and therefore the scientific interest given to this subject is justified. In this sense, one of the essential problems is represented by the operation of electrical networks in the non-symmetric regime. One of the causes is the unequal distribution of single-phase loads in the three phases of the low-voltage electrical network: the operation of the network in a permanent non-symmetric regime. Automatic phase balancing represents a solution that can reduce the negative effects caused by asymmetry. For this, load monitoring and switching are two defining stages. The objective of this paper is to present elements about phase-switching, experimental tests for single-phase load static switching, and the development and check of a loads monitoring platform. So, to test the implemented platform, numerical simulations were performed in various operating scenarios. This research focuses on the processes underlying automatic phase balancing: load monitoring and transfer. The experimental verification of static switching devices leads to the possibility of using them in projects of this type. The implemented monitoring platform is necessary for the human operator to have access to important process data. The platform was developed in the LabVIEW programming environment.