Yahoo Answers is shutting down on 4 May 2021 (Eastern Time) and the Yahoo Answers website is now in read-only mode. There will be no changes to other Yahoo properties or services, or your Yahoo account. You can find more information about the Yahoo Answers shutdown and how to download your data on this help page.

Where is the return path for three phase current?

In a single phase, neutral is the return path. How about three phase?

6 Answers

Relevance
  • Anonymous
    2 years ago

    The current in one phase splits and returns via the other two phases. This is a constantly changing dynamic process best described by using a 3 phase waveform graph. You will then see what is happening.

  • 2 years ago

    In two phase power one line is + while the other is -. One forces current while the other returns current. there is no current in the neutral line.

    In three Phase power the situation is very similar; One or two lines are + while 1 or 2 lines are -. the + lines force current whild the - lines return current and there is no current in the neutal line. The neutral line is simply a safety connection for current in the Frame.

  • Anonymous
    2 years ago

    In USA we have DELTA and WYE 3-phase power.

    Delta uses the next phase for the return.

    3 wires plus ground.

    Wye has a neutral.

    4 wires plus ground.

  • 2 years ago

    For a balanced load, currents separated in phase by 120° sum to zero. When the load is not balanced, amperage is detected in the neutral.

  • ?
    Lv 7
    2 years ago

    With alternating voltage each leg becomes both source and return half the time.

  • arther
    Lv 5
    2 years ago

    the other 2 phases. Goto any 3 phase distribution board measure the current on the actives then measure the current on the neutral

Still have questions? Get answers by asking now.