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A model for characterizing residential ground current and magnetic field fluctuations
D L Mader1, S B Peralta, M D Sherar
1Ontario Hydro Technologies, Toronto, Canada.
Bioelectromagnetics
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Ground current fluctuations in residential electrical systems can be substantial, reaching up to 600%. These variations in ground current directly impact magnetic fields near the grounding circuit, as demonstrated by this study.
Area of Science:
- Electrical Engineering
- Environmental Health Physics
Background:
- Magnetic fields near residential grounding circuits are influenced by ground current.
- Understanding ground current fluctuations is crucial for assessing potential magnetic field exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To model and quantify the range of fluctuations in residential ground currents.
- To investigate the impact of random appliance operation on ground current variability.
Main Methods:
- A discrete network model simulated a local distribution system.
- A statistical model was employed to simulate unbalanced currents.
- Simulations were conducted on three-house and ten-house networks.
Main Results:
- Random appliance operation can cause significant ground current fluctuations, up to approximately 600%.
- Simulated fluctuations align with measurements from an actual house.
Conclusions:
- Residential ground currents exhibit substantial variability due to normal electrical usage.
- The presented model accurately predicts the magnitude of these ground current fluctuations.