European versus North American distribution practices

[magoo2]

I'm trying to get a better handle on some fundamental differences between European versus North American distribution practices, particularly for residential areas. I started with some info contained in the Std Handbook for Electrical Engineers and edited them based on my own experience.


I've listed a few differences in the attachment.


Are these reasonable assumptions today?

 

[Marmite]

There are a couple of relevant Schneider "Cahier Techniques" available for download at

http://www2.schneider-electric.com/...ervices/technical-publications/networks.page?

which might save you a bit of time and effort.
Regards
Marmite

 

[ScottyUK]

For a British perspective, have a look at Central Networks' design manual.

 

[magoo2]

Thanks Marmite and Scotty. A German buddy of mine tells me he has 3 phase service at his house. I thought 230 V single phase service was typical. Is 400V/230 three phase service available?

 

[ScottyUK]

In the UK it is possible to get a 3-phase service to a domestic property, but it is at the home-owner's cost. Most UK properties are supplied at 230V (240V) with a service fuse in the range 60A - 100A depending on the age and size of the property.

 

[Marmite]

In the UK you wouldn't deliberately have a 3 phase supply into you house unless you really needed it as you will pay through the nose for standing availability charges just to have a 3 phase meter.
Regards
Marmite

 

[rasevskii]

In Austria, in urban situations, 3 phase 230/400V is standard, and is brought into each apartment building from the street. Each consumer can have a 3 phase service meter if required for example for the kitchen stove which are usually reconnectable for single or 3 phase. Main fuses at the meter are 3 x 25A Neozed type.

rasevskii

 

[ScottyUK]

Hi Marmite -

I didn't know that applied to domestic users, or is a domestic user who wants 3-phase no longer classed as 'domestic'? That can be my little bit of learning for today (aside from the discovery of numerous more ways that do not work).