Why connect the transformer neutral to ground
The neutral, or 'star point', of a star (or 'wye') connected transformer secondary is grounded (earthed) in order to ensure that the phase voltages are balanced -i.e. each of the line-to-neutral voltages are identical. If the star point was not earthed, and the load currents were unbalanced (due to an unbalanced load, supplied by that transformer), then a situation called a 'floating neutral' would arise, causing the transformer to have different line-to-neutral voltages (both in magnitude and phase).
In addition to this, the presence of harmonic (multiples of the mains' frequency) currents can cause the potential of an unearthed neutral point to 'cycle' or 'oscillate'. This phenomenon of 'oscillating neutral' is avoided by allowing any harmonic currents pass to earth, thereby saving the circuit from voltage unbalances due to these harmonics.
Comments
Post a Comment