Pete: Thanks for the work. What I meant was not to compare vectors with algebraic methods but to compare the correct method (vectors or algebraic) with a simple but inaccurate solution using just the sum of the running and starting currents and the PU impedance. Neglecting phase angles and X:R ratios and voltage regulation.
I know you don't have much experience doing it wrong, but that was what I was asking. As the starting current is mostly reactive I expected much more difference.
Don’t underestimate me, I am very good at doing it wrong ;-).
But in this case, I think I have correctly done it wrong. In other words, I think the algebraic solution that I provided (smath file) does match the simplistic style of calculation that you described where we ignore all phase angle. The results may not match your intuition, but I would suggest intuition is not always perfect when you are working vectors in your head.
Attached I have provided a revised/updated Smath file which provides geometrically-developed correction factors which explain the deviation between the algebraic method and the vector method. Specifically, we develop correction factor CF1 based on the error introduced by adding the two current vectors algebraically. It is derived using the law of cosines: C^2=A^2+B^2-2ABcos(theta).
The 2nd correction factor accounts for the fact that we subtract the product |I*Z| from the primary voltage (1.0) algebraically, rather than vectorially. It also is derived from law of cosines. Also, it should be noted the two error types are not independent. The fractional error introduced in the 2nd stage of subtracing |I*Z| from 1 depends on the value |I*Z| that we’re using which depends on CF1. So the approach is to formulate CF2 as a composite error which includes both the effects of subtracting |I*Z| from 1 algebraically and the CF1 error from formulating I algebraically. Hopefully this is clearer in equation form than in the words here.
These geometrically-derived correction factors fully explain the difference between the 2 approaches and validate the complex (real/imaginary) math to all the decimal places available in this program (4).
Assume that running current is at 100% PF and the starting current is at 0% power factor. The resulting current (6 motors x 100% FLA @ 100% PF and one motor at 600% FLA @ 0% PF) will be 70.7% of the simple sum of the currents. (?2/2)
That example is a little more extreme because of large angle difference between the two currents. Moreover, if you look at my Smath, this particular error only shows up in CF1. The effect of CF1 is reduced when we roll it into CF2 as shown studying the following equation in the smath attachment:
CF2 = Cmag / (1 - |B|/CF1)
the importance of CF1 within CF2 is diminished because |B| =0.0673 <<1.
I know the Maple and Matlab computer reports are tough to read. I think (hope) the smath reports like attached are a little easier to read.
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(2B)+(2B)' ?