What happens when a 3Ø, 4-W supply system is misconfigured?

In a three-phase, four-wire (3Ø, 4-W) supply system, a misconfiguration can lead to several detrimental effects, which is why identifying that all options are applicable is crucial.

Firstly, the loss of the neutral wire can occur as a result of misconfiguration. The neutral conductor in a 4-W system is essential for providing a return path for unbalanced loads originating from the three-phase system. If the neutral wire is lost due to an incorrect connection or damage, it can lead to over-voltages in some phases, which can be hazardous to both equipment and personnel.

Secondly, system stability may be compromised. A properly balanced three-phase system is designed to maintain stable voltages across all phases. If there is a misconfiguration, the phases can become unbalanced, leading to fluctuations in voltage levels. Such instabilities can adversely affect the performance of the equipment connected to the system, leading to inefficiencies or even failures.

Lastly, there is a potential for increased load on certain phases. When the neutral connection is compromised, loads that are normally balanced can redistribute unequally across the remaining phases. This imbalance can cause some phases to carry significantly more load than others, which can in turn increase the risk of overheating and tr