Many of us are familiar with the concept of "rated voltage." This parameter is indicated on all household appliances. Exceeding or decreasing this value will lead to improper operation of the device or its malfunction. Particularly sensitive to compliance with the correct operating mode are electronic devices. Even a short-term change in power parameters can adversely affect their performance. Separately, it should be noted the work of industrial schemes. The entire process can suffer from a change in the supply voltage, say, during a drawdown of the supply network - this will lead to equipment downtime and significant losses to the entire enterprise.
Let's divide all household appliances into several groups. We will classify according to the degree of possible failure as a result of a change in a parameter such as the rated voltage.
- The most invulnerable in this regard are heating devices: heaters, electric kettles, irons, etc. With a short-term change in the parameters of the supply network, they will give off excess power to heat, thus protecting themselves from damage. Typically, such devices are designed with a margin of such an indicator as inter-turn insulation. If the power regulator in such a device is at a minimum mark, then they can withstand prolonged overvoltage. In order for such a device to fail, the rated voltage must increase significantly.
- Devices that include an induction motor: refrigerators, air conditioners, fans, etc. Short-term voltage increase / decrease will only lead to malfunction of the household appliance. But a long-term violation of the operating mode can have sad consequences - the engine will fail, and its replacement will be required. The rated voltage is a guarantee of the normal operation of all consumer devices.
- Electronic household appliances: computers, laptops, televisions, etc. Such schemes are the most sensitive - any change in the parameters of the supply network can lead to their failure. Modern devices are designed taking into account possible overvoltage and are equipped with various protection schemes, but their capabilities are also limited, because they consist of the same elements as the main circuit. Protection devices perfectly protect the electronic device from short-term power outages, but with prolonged overvoltage can fail. This will result in the loss of a valuable household appliance.
- Lighting devices: incandescent lamps, powerful LED lamps, fluorescent. Energy-saving appliances are more sensitive to overvoltages than traditional ones.
As you can see, electric power receivers require compliance with the operating standards laid down in them by the project. Sensors operating under load are sensitive to a decrease in the rated voltage. Prolonged subsidence can cause them to stop and fail. As for overvoltage in the network, in this case, electronic devices will fail most quickly.
A powerful voltage regulator is used to protect the most critical circuits from such situations in production. Such devices can be used in everyday life. Of course, they are smaller in power and are designed to power household appliances. With their help, it is completely possible to avoid damage and extend the life of a valuable device.