In a 3 phase, 4 wire system, the phase to phase voltage is how many times greater than the phase to ground voltage?

In a three-phase, four-wire system, the relationship between phase-to-phase voltage and phase-to-ground voltage is based on the geometry of the system and the way voltages are organized in a three-phase system.

The phase-to-ground voltage is the voltage measured between any one phase and the neutral wire. In a balanced three-phase system, the phase-to-phase voltage is the voltage measured between any two phases. The formula that relates these two voltages is as follows:

Phase-to-phase voltage = √3 × Phase-to-ground voltage

The square root of 3 (approximately 1.732) explains why the phase-to-phase voltage is 1.73 times greater than the phase-to-ground voltage. Therefore, in this case, the phase-to-phase voltage is indeed 1.73 times greater, which is reasoned mathematically and arises from the physical geometry of the three-phase system.

This relationship is fundamental for understanding how electrical systems operate and is crucial for linemen when making calculations related to power distribution and line design. Utilizing this principle allows linemen to ensure safe and efficient operation of electrical systems.