kolmikühendumine

Kolmikühendumine, also known as three-phase connection, is an electrical engineering term referring to the connection of three alternating current (AC) electrical sources or loads. In a typical three-phase system, three conductors carry AC power, with each conductor's voltage waveform being offset by 120 degrees from the other two. This arrangement ensures a more constant power delivery compared to single-phase systems.

The most common configurations for three-phase connections are star (Y) and delta (Δ). In a star connection, the ends of the three windings or circuits are joined at a common neutral point. In a delta connection, the ends of the windings are connected in a closed loop, forming a triangle. Both configurations have distinct advantages and disadvantages depending on the application.

Three-phase power is widely used in industrial settings and for powering large electrical motors due to its efficiency and ability to provide higher starting torque. It is also the standard for electricity generation and transmission. Residential power is typically distributed as single-phase or a split-phase system derived from a three-phase source. The use of three-phase systems minimizes conductor material for a given power transmission capacity and reduces voltage fluctuations.