Is the neutral conductor a live wire?

Answer 1

YES. ACTUALLY THE SIZE OF NEUTRAL BUSBAR IS BIGGER THAN THE PHASE CURRENT IF ALL THE LOADS IN A 3 PHASE PANELBOARD ARE ALL SINGLE PHASE. In single-phase, which is found in homes, when an appliance is operating, the amps (current) will be equal in the "hot leg" and the neutral. So current IS passing through the neutral wire. In 3-Phase, which is found in a lot of commersial and industrial buildings (including schools), very little current will exist in the neutral IF the current load is BALANCED EQUALLY between the 3 phases. At any given time, however, it is almost impossible to balance the current exactly. So current, even a small amount, will probably exist in the neutral wire. Most certainly enough to harm or kill you! Be it at home, or at work, when the lamp at your desk or by your bed is on, current is flowing through BOTH of the lamp wires!

Answer 2

It depends upon the configuration of the electrical system.

For European single-phase systems, having a line and a neutral conductor, under normal (i.e.no fault) circumstances, the neutral wire will carry exactly the same current as the line (not 'phase'!) conductor.

For North American systems, utilising two lines and a neutral, it depends upon the 'balance' of the loads.

For three-phase, four wire, systems, with a perfectly-balanced load there will be no neutral current, but for an unbalanced load, there will be a current -although not necessarily the same as any of the line currents.

Answer 3

A neutral wire can and does carry a current on both a split phase and three phase system. The neutral will carry the un-balanced current of the circuit.

Reference the split phase diagram above.

The neutral conductor is the centre point between the L1 and L2 line points. If you have a current of 10 amps between L1 and N (neutral) and 8 amps between L2 and N (neutral), then the un-balanced current would be 10 - 8 = 2 amps.

Electricians will try and load balance a distribution panel by moving circuit loads to different breaker positions within the panel board. The object is to obtain the lowest current draw on the neutral conductor

Answer 4

Exactly the same current as in the line conductor.

Answer 5

It should not have any current flowing. If it is, your electrical wiring is incorrect and may need the services of a licensed electrician to correct.

Answer 6

yes!