What is the difference between AC and DC transmission? When is each used?

2025-08-11

Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current (DC) are two forms of electricity transmission. While AC is the most common for most power grids, High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission is increasingly used for specific applications.

  • AC Transmission: This is the standard for most power grids due to its ease of voltage transformation using transformers, which makes it ideal for local distribution. However, AC transmission experiences greater power losses over long distances and can have stability issues.

  • HVDC Transmission: This method is more efficient for transmitting large amounts of power over very long distances or for subsea cables. HVDC systems experience fewer power losses and do not have the same reactive power and synchronization issues as AC. However, the conversion stations at each end of an HVDC line are complex and expensive.

Your company, Ningbo Changshi, manufactures the necessary equipment for both AC and DC transmission projects, from overhead stringing equipment to specialized tools for cable installation.

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