Bottentrådspänning

Bottentrådspänning, also known as bottom wire voltage, refers to the voltage drop that occurs along the conductor of a cable or wire used to connect a load. This voltage drop is a consequence of the conductor's inherent resistance. When current flows through the conductor, a portion of the voltage is dissipated as heat due to this resistance, resulting in a lower voltage at the end of the wire where the load is connected compared to the voltage at the source.

The magnitude of the bottentrådspänning depends on several factors. These include the current flowing through the conductor, the length of the conductor, and the cross-sectional area and material of the conductor. Higher current, longer lengths, and smaller cross-sectional areas all contribute to a greater voltage drop. The material's resistivity also plays a role; for example, copper has lower resistivity than aluminum, leading to less voltage drop for the same dimensions.

Excessive bottentrådspänning can be detrimental. It can lead to underperformance of the connected equipment, as it may not receive the intended operating voltage. For electrical motors, this can result in reduced torque and overheating. For lighting, it can cause dimming. In sensitive electronic devices, it can cause malfunctions or failure to operate. Therefore, in electrical design, it is important to calculate and manage bottentrådspänning to ensure that the voltage at the load remains within acceptable limits. This is often achieved by using adequately sized conductors or by locating the power source closer to the load.