[Milsurplus] DC vs AC for power distribution

[Sheldon Daitch]

As we know, AC replaced DC distribution many
years ago, because of the availability of power
transformers, as this allowed the power to be
generated at low voltages, stepped up to higher
voltages and stepped back down to lower
voltages for the customers.

There is also a trend to go back to DC for high
voltage distribution grid systems, to overcome some
of the challenges of AC distribution systems, related
to the reactive elements (Inductive and capacitive)
in the AC distribution network and cables which
place limitations of transmission line capacity
and distance.  AC networks may also require
additional equipment on the line for compensation,
such as capacitors and  reactors.

Advances in high voltage high current electronic
components make DC distribution networks far
more acceptable, with AC to DC conversion at the
generator end, but more importantly, the DC to
three phase AC conversion at the user or lower
voltage distribution end of the networks.