In a 3-phase system, what would be the effect of an uneven load?

In a 3-phase system, an uneven load can lead to significant operational issues, making the choice of 'it can cause overheating and reduced efficiency' the only viable option.

When loads are not balanced across the three phases, it results in an imbalance in the current flowing through each phase. This imbalance can cause one or more phases to carry more current than they are designed for, leading to overheating in conductors and equipment. Overheating can damage insulation and components, resulting in reduced lifespan and potential failure, which is not just detrimental to efficiency but also increases maintenance costs and system downtime.

Additionally, the imbalance does not allow the system to operate at its optimum capacity, resulting in wasted energy and, consequently, a decrease in overall efficiency. Unlike balanced loads, which can distribute effective capacity evenly and maintain consistent voltage levels, uneven loads lead to voltage drops and other issues detrimental to performance.

In summary, the strain caused by an uneven load brings about risks of overloading, overheating, and a compromised operational lifespan of equipment, highlighting the critical nature of load balancing in maintaining the efficiency of a 3-phase system.