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Distribution Systems: Distribution Feeder Circuits

Distribution Feeder Circuits
Distribution feeder circuits are the connections between the output terminals of a distribution substation and the input terminals of primary circuits. The distribution feeder circuit conductors leave the substation from a circuit breaker or circuit recloser via underground cables, called substation exit cables. The underground cables connect to a nearby overhead primary circuit outside the substation. This eliminates multiple circuits on the poles adjacent to the substations thereby improving the overall appearance of the substation.

Several distribution feeder circuits can leave a substation extending in different directions to serve customers. The underground cables are connected to the primary circuit via a nearby riser pole.

The distribution feeder bay routes power from the substation to the distribution primary feeder circuits.

In the photo of the distribution main feeder the primary circuit is fed underground to a nearby distribution system overhead line. The yellow cables are the primary feeder lines going underground.

Figure 1. 3-phase distribution feeder bay
Figure 1. 3-phase distribution feeder bay 		Figure 2. Distribution main feeder
Figure 2. Distribution main feeder
  
Figure 3. Distribution feeder recloser
Figure 3. Distribution feeder recloser

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