What is the difference between load sharing and load shedding?
Load sharing ,
is the process of distributing the electrical load among multiple generators or power sources in a system.This ensures that the load is evenly distributed, preventing any single generator from becoming overloaded.
Load sharing is typically used during normal operation to maintain balance and efficiency in the electrical system.
Load shedding,
on the other hand, is the deliberate disconnection or reduction of electrical loads in a system to prevent overloading and potential system failure. This is typically done when the electrical demand exceeds the available generating capacity.
Load shedding is a protective mechanism used in emergency situations or when the system is understress, such as during peak demand or equipment failures.
Load sharing and load shedding are important mechanisms in the management of gas turbine engine electrical systems, ensuring reliable and efficient power distribution under normal and emergency conditions.
In a gas turbine engine electrical system, load sharing and load shedding are used in the following scenarios::-
Load Sharing:-
1. During normal operating conditions, the gas turbine engine’s generators are configured to share the electrical load among themselves. This ensures that no single generator is overloaded, and that the overall system efficiency is maintained.
2. Load sharing allows the system to respond to fluctuations in electrical demand by adjusting the load distribution among the generators.
Load Shedding:-
1. In the event of a generator failure or sudden increase in electrical demand that exceeds the system’s capacity, load shedding may be implemented.
2. Load shedding involves the automatic or manual disconnection of non-critical electrical loads to prevent the remaining generators from becoming overloaded and potentially causing a system-wide failure.3. This helps to maintain the operation of essential systems and prevent the cascading failure of the entire electrical system