kõrgvõimsus

Kõrgvõimsus is an Estonian term that translates to "high voltage" in English. It refers to electrical systems that operate at a significantly elevated voltage level compared to standard domestic or industrial power. These systems are crucial for the efficient transmission and distribution of electricity over long distances.

The primary purpose of using high voltage is to minimize energy loss during transmission. When electricity travels through power lines, some energy is dissipated as heat due to electrical resistance. The amount of power lost is proportional to the square of the current. By increasing the voltage, the current can be reduced for the same amount of power, thereby significantly decreasing transmission losses.

Kõrgvõimsus systems typically involve substations where voltage is stepped up from generators to very high levels (e.g., hundreds of thousands of volts) for long-distance transmission. As the electricity approaches its destination, other substations step the voltage down in stages to levels suitable for industrial consumers, then to lower voltages for commercial and residential use. The specific voltage levels used in kõrgvõimsus systems vary depending on the country and the specific application, but they are generally considered to be above 35 kilovolts. Safety precautions are paramount when dealing with high voltage due to the inherent dangers of electric shock and potential for arcing.