Connected load, in the context of electrical power, refers to the sum of the power ratings of all the electrical devices and equipment connected to a specific electrical system or circuit. It is an important parameter for designing, sizing, and managing electrical systems. The connected load provides valuable information about the total demand that the system will experience, which helps in determining the capacity of the power supply, distribution, and wiring required to support these devices.
Connected load is typically expressed in units of power, such as kilowatts (kW) or megawatts (MW), depending on the scale of the system being considered. It includes the power ratings of all the devices that are intended to be operated simultaneously, even if they are not all running at full capacity all the time.
For example, consider a residential building. The connected load of the building would include the power ratings of all the lights, appliances, air conditioners, water heaters, and other electrical devices that are expected to be used concurrently. Similarly, in an industrial setting, the connected load would encompass the power ratings of all the machinery, equipment, and systems that might operate simultaneously.
It's important to note that the connected load is not necessarily the same as the actual power consumption. Actual power consumption can vary based on factors such as usage patterns, duty cycles of equipment, and energy-saving features. Therefore, while designing an electrical system, it's crucial to consider both the connected load and the expected power consumption to ensure the system can handle the demand effectively without overloading.
In summary, the connected load represents the total power demand of all connected devices and equipment in an electrical system, helping engineers and designers appropriately size and manage the power supply and distribution infrastructure.