whats the difference between line current and phase current
The difference between line current and phase current is in the context of three-phase electrical systems. In such systems, there are three conductors, each carrying an alternating current. The line current refers to the current flowing through the three-phase power lines or conductors, while the phase current refers to the current flowing through each individual phase or conductor.
To understand the difference, it's important to grasp the concept of phases in a three-phase system. In a balanced three-phase system, the three currents are identical in magnitude but have a phase difference of 120 degrees (i.e., they peak at different times). Each current is referred to as a phase current.
The line current is the total current flowing through each of the power lines in a three-phase system. It is the sum of the magnitudes of the three phase currents. The line current is typically higher than the phase current since it represents the combined current from all three phases.
To measure the line current, you would use a current transformer or clamp meter and measure the current flowing through each of the power lines simultaneously.
To measure the phase current, you would need to measure the current flowing through each phase separately using a current transformer or an ammeter connected in series with each phase.
In summary, the line current represents the combined current flowing through all three power lines in a three-phase system, while the phase current refers to the current flowing through each individual phase or conductor.