What is the difference between ring main system and radial system in electrical power system?

Answer 1

Ring main system In this system, various power stations or sub-stations are interconnected alternate routes, thus forming a closed ring. In case of damage to any section of the ring, that section may be disconnected for repairs and power will be supplied from both ends of the ring.

A radial system has a single simultaneous path of power .The distribution systems are typically radial because networked systems are more expensive.

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In the user's premises - a private house, school or commercial premises, say - a Ring Main consists of a cable that runs in a complete "ring" from the circuit-breaker or fuse output, round the building and back to the circuit-breaker output. The various socket outlets or lamps - two separate ring-mains from separate CBs - are connected across the ring pair, so all fittings and appliances on that ring are in parallel and with a double-ended feed. A radial, or spur, version, would have each socket or perhaps one room set of sockets, on its own spur from the CB. Electric ovens are commonly on their own CBs or fuses and spurs, due to their high current demand. It is normal to have more than one ring for either lamps or power, usually by floor in a house or other small building.