High voltage

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electrostatic-discharge

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ISO 7010 W012

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High voltage refers to an electric potential large enough to cause injury or damage. In electrical engineering, the term is used to describe voltages above a certain threshold where special safety measures are required to handle, install, and maintain the equipment.

Definition

The definition of high voltage varies between different regulatory bodies, but it is generally considered to be a voltage higher than 1,000 volts in most applications. In power transmission, high voltage is used to reduce energy losses during long-distance transmission. High voltage is also used in industrial applications, such as in the operation of cathode ray tubes, X-ray machines, and for certain industrial processes.

Generation

High voltage can be generated using electrostatic generators, such as the Van de Graaff generator, or by electromagnetic means through transformers. In power stations, alternators or generators produce electricity at a relatively low voltage, which is then stepped up by transformers for transmission over long distances.

Transmission

Electric power transmission systems use high voltage to transport electricity from power plants to substations, and then to consumers. The use of high voltage allows for the transmission of more power over longer distances with smaller conductor sizes, reducing losses and improving efficiency.

Safety

Handling high voltage requires strict safety precautions to prevent electric shock, Arc flash, and other hazards. Safety measures include the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and insulating mats, and adherence to safety protocols and standards. Training and certification are often required for personnel working with high voltage systems.

Applications

Beyond power transmission, high voltage is used in various applications, including:

• Electron microscopes, which use high voltage to accelerate electrons to create high-resolution images.
• Particle accelerators, where high voltage is used to accelerate particles to high speeds for research in physics.
• Medical devices, such as X-ray machines, which use high voltage to generate X-rays for diagnostic imaging.

See also

• Electricity
• Transformer
• Insulator
• Conductor