Low-voltage (LV) and high-voltage (HV) distribution rooms are critical components of the power system, essential for the distribution, transmission, and management of electricity. While both serve vital roles in power distribution, they differ significantly in various aspects, including voltage levels, applications, equipment, and safety features. Below is a detailed comparison:

1. Power and Voltage Levels

Low-Voltage Distribution Room:

Refers to distribution equipment with a voltage level of 1000V or below, particularly the 400V distribution rooms connected to 10kV or 35kV substation transformers.

Typically serves smaller power loads, mainly for residential, commercial, or industrial users and direct power distribution to equipment.

High-Voltage Distribution Room:

Refers to distribution equipment operating at 6kV to 10kV, mainly used for larger-scale power distribution.

Designed for higher power loads and capable of managing larger areas and industrial systems.

2. Applications and Functions

Low-Voltage Distribution Room:

Widely used in industrial facilities, public buildings, and residential areas.

Primary function is to distribute power from high-voltage transmission systems (via transformers) to the various electrical devices or users.

Due to simpler structures and smaller power capacity, it ensures a high level of reliability in power supply.

High-Voltage Distribution Room:

Typically found in substations or large industrial power distribution systems.

Responsible for converting high-voltage power into lower voltage for use in industrial or domestic settings.

Contains key equipment like transformers, switchgear, and protection instruments, ensuring control, protection, measurement, and monitoring of the power system.

3. Equipment Features and Safety

Low-Voltage Distribution Room:

Though it operates at a lower voltage, it can still present hazards such as short circuits or leakage due to aging equipment or poor contact.

Safety measures like insulating boots and gloves are necessary to protect maintenance personnel from potential electric shock.

High-Voltage Distribution Room:

Known for its safety, reliability, and energy efficiency, it helps optimize the power grid structure, reduce energy loss, and improve power quality.

It operates safely even in hazardous environments, ensuring high power reliability. Safety protocols are stricter, given the higher potential for danger.

4. Other Key Differences

Step-up and Step-down Processes:

In low-voltage distribution rooms, power distribution mainly involves managing incoming lines and switches to distribute electricity.

In high-voltage rooms, the process involves stepping down high-voltage power into lower voltage levels for distribution, including both input and output switchgear systems.

Maintenance and Management:

Both types of distribution rooms require careful maintenance and management to ensure continuous and stable power supply.

Regular preventive testing and maintenance checks are essential to keep the equipment in working condition and minimize downtime.

Conclusion

Low-voltage and high-voltage distribution rooms differ significantly in terms of power capacity, voltage levels, applications, functionality, equipment, and safety requirements. These differences enable them to play distinct but complementary roles within the power distribution system, ensuring reliable electricity supply across various sectors.