1.1 Introduction
An Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) is an electrical device designed to automatically maintain a constant voltage level to protect electrical equipment from voltage fluctuations (Glover et al., 2017). It works by continuously monitoring the input voltage and adjusting it to deliver a stable output voltage within a specified range, thereby ensuring that connected appliances and machines operate efficiently and safely (Kothari & Nagrath, 2018). In many developing countries, such as Nigeria, the reliability of the public power supply remains a major concern. Voltage instability is a persistent problem due to factors such as poor infrastructure, inadequate generation capacity, and long transmission distances (Nwokoye & Obi, 2020).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Automatic Voltage Regulators (AVRs) began to emerge in the 1930s, primarily for use in synchronous generators in power plants. Glover, Sarma, and Overbye (2017) reported that early AVRs were based on electromechanical relays and magnetic amplifiers, which, while effective, were bulky and required regular maintenance (Sarma et al., 2017). In Nigeria, the widespread adoption of AVRs began in the 1980s as voltage instability became more prominent due to rapid urbanization and overloading of existing power infrastructure (Nwokoye & Obi, 2020). Imported AVRs dominated the market, often sourced from Asia and Europe, but these were designed for more stable grids and sometimes failed under Nigeria’s fluctuating voltage conditions (Olawale & Oke, 2022).
According to Glover, Sarma, and Overbye (2017), an Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) is an electrical device that automatically controls and stabilizes voltage levels to protect electrical equipment from voltage variations. They explained that an AVR operates by detecting fluctuations in the input voltage and adjusting the output to maintain it within safe operating limits. Kothari and Nagrath (2018) asserted that voltage regulation is a critical aspect of electrical power systems, as unstable voltage is capable of reducing the efficiency, safety, and operational lifespan of appliances.
Nwokoye and Obi (2020) reported that Nigeria’s power distribution network suffers from persistent voltage instability due to aging infrastructure, inadequate generation capacity, and inefficient transmission systems. They further stated that this situation results in voltage surges, dips, and frequent fluctuations that have damaging effects on both domestic and industrial equipment. Adeleke (2019) affirmed that the financial impact of unstable power supply is significant, as individuals and businesses incur recurring costs for repairs and replacements of damaged devices.
Olawale and Oke (2022) contended that while commercial AVRs are available in the Nigerian market, many imported models are ill-suited for the country’s grid conditions and are often expensive. On the other hand, locally produced voltage regulators sometimes fall short in terms of precision, durability, and adaptability, thereby failing to offer long-term solutions (Olawale and Oke, 2022). The use of an AVR is essential in such contexts, as it helps to stabilize the power supply, thereby preventing damage to electrical appliances and improving energy efficiency. However, commercially available AVRs, especially those with medium capacity such as 2Kva, are often expensive, and many imported models are not designed to handle the peculiarities of the Nigerian grid system (Olawale & Oke, 2022). On the other hand, locally made voltage regulators sometimes fall short in terms of durability, precision, and adaptability, creating a need for improved indigenous designs. This study is set against the backdrop of the urgent demand for a dependable, affordable, and efficient voltage regulation solution that addresses Nigeria’s unique power challenges.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that electric power supply irregularities remain a persistent challenge in many developing nations, including Nigeria, where voltage fluctuations are a common occurrence (Nwokoye & Obi, 2020). Electrical appliances and sensitive electronic devices are highly susceptible to damage when subjected to inconsistent voltage levels, leading to reduced lifespan, malfunction, and increased maintenance costs (Adeleke, 2019). An unstable power supply not only disrupts domestic comfort but also affects industrial productivity, as equipment downtime due to voltage instability is a frequent cause of operational inefficiency (Okafor et al., 2021).
Although various commercial voltage stabilizers are available, many of them are costly, prone to failure, or incompatible with certain load capacities, making them unsuitable for households and small-scale businesses that require a more reliable, cost-effective solution (Olawale & Oke, 2022). On the other hand, imported models often lack adaptability to local grid conditions, resulting in underperformance and the need for frequent servicing.
Furthermore, the absence of a dependable and affordable 2Kva AVR design that is tailored to the peculiarities of the Nigerian power system presents a significant technological and socio-economic gap. It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to design and construct a 2Kva Automatic Voltage Regulator that is efficient, reliable, and economically viable for everyday use.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of this study is to develop and implement a functional 2Kva Automatic Voltage Regulator that ensures stable voltage supply to protect electrical appliances and improve energy efficiency. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To design a 2Kva AVR suitable for the Nigerian power system.
- To construct and test the designed AVR for performance and reliability.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of the AVR in stabilizing fluctuating voltage.
- To determine the cost-efficiency of locally constructing a 2Kva AVR compared to imported models.
1.5 Significance of Study
The outcome from the findings of this research will hold significant relevance in the following ways.
- Households will benefit from reduced damage to appliances and lower maintenance costs.
- Small and Medium Enterprises will experience increased productivity due to stable voltage supply.
- Electrical Engineers and Technicians will gain insights into locally adapted AVR designs.
- Educational Institutions will have a practical case study for teaching voltage regulation.
- The Economy will benefit from reduced import dependency and the promotion of local manufacturing.
1.6 Scope and Limitation of the Study
This study focuses on the design, construction, and performance evaluation of a 2Kva Automatic Voltage Regulator for use within households and small businesses in Lagos State, Nigeria. The AVR will be tested using voltage conditions typical of the region to ensure reliability and adaptability.
The study was limited by factors such as high cost of components, availability of specialized equipment, and the scope of testing conditions. It was also constrained to medium-capacity AVR design, excluding higher-capacity systems.
1.7 Definition of Terms
Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR):
An electrical device that automatically maintains a constant output voltage regardless of variations in the input voltage (Glover, Sarma, & Overbye, 2017).
Voltage Fluctuation:
A variation in voltage magnitude from the nominal value, which can cause damage or malfunction in electrical appliances (Kothari & Nagrath, 2018).
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