Stabilizers

The use of stabilizers has decreased since switch-mode power supply started to be applied in IT and Telecom equipment 20 years ago. The key virtue of switch-mode power supply is that it is small and compact. This was a key asset for the PC industry in its pursuit of compact equipment. In addition, switch-mode power supply is not sensitive to voltage fluctuations of up to 35% of the nominal voltage. One drawback is that switch-mode power supply does not fully buffer high-frequency grid distortion.

Mains voltage stabilizers are mainly necessary for linear power supply systems, lighting equipment, motors etc. and even then only in cases where the voltage level can fluctuate strongly.

Several variants/principles are available:

Line conditioner based on 50 Hertz transformer
This reaches "saturation" and is exclusively suitable for protecting 50 Hertz-based power supply against mains voltage fluctuations. Only available for small load capacities up to 2000VA.

Line conditioner based on electronic step-up or step-down transformer
This works according to the same principle as used in the transformer of a Line-interactive UPS where the term buck and boost is used. This is no more than a transformer, usually with a number of windings on the secondary side that can be electronically switched on or off. As a result, the outgoing secondary voltage only shows limited variations in the event of primary mains voltage fluctuations.

Motor-controlled mains voltage stabilizer
This instrument measures the supplied mains voltage and in the case of variations a motor is activated that shifts a contactor on the transformer winding, thus bringing the outgoing voltage back to the nominal level. There is a slight delay in the reaction, but this is usually acceptable for the application. Available in small to very large load capacities, both 1 phase and 3 phases.

ELINEX Power Solutions carries an extensive programme of stabilizers. The choice of type depends on your needs, your application and the environment in which your stabilizer is to be placed. If you have any questions in this field, don't hesitate to consult our specialists.