The standard frequency for AC power is typically 50 or 60Hz. Mainland China and most of Europe use 50Hz. The United States, Japan, Canada, Taiwan, Brazil, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, and others use a 60Hz frequency. The U.S. operates on a single 60Hz, while Japan and South Korea have both frequencies in use.
Why is the aircraft's power supply 400Hz?
Initially, a higher system frequency reduces the amount of copper and steel required for generators and transformers, resulting in lighter weight and lower costs. However, this also increases the inductive reactance of electrical equipment and reduces the capacitive reactance, leading to higher losses and decreased transmission efficiency. Conversely, a lower frequency would increase the material and weight requirements for electrical equipment, as well as the cost.
Therefore, 50 and 60 Hz are suitable values. In the aviation industry, there's a famous saying: "Strive to reduce every gram of weight!" Consequently, to minimize volume and weight, high-frequency generators are required for aviation. Since the transmission lines on aircraft are not excessively long, power loss is no longer the primary contradiction. Thus, 400 Hz is the chosen frequency.
In fact, there is an even higher power frequency in use.
