Intuitive Engineers - What is a Load Flow Analysis?

What is a Load Flow Analysis?

No matter how big or small an electrical installation may be, the National Electrical Code (NEC) requires a load flow analysis. This is often referred to a load calculation. A load calculation allows the engineer to accurately predict how much power will be used at each panelboard, distribution board, electrical service and so on. The electrical engineer needs to know what equipment, that is going to be installed under the project, will require an electrical connection. Common items that need to be taken into consideration when performing a load flow analysis and calculation are:

- Mechanical and Plumbing equipment
- IT equipment
- Automatic doors
- Automatic window shades
- Kitchen equipment
- AV equipment
- Industrial control panels
- Accessories for any of these or other pieces that require separate electrical connections
- Lighting fixtures
- Powered signs
- Receptacles
- Healthcare equipment
- Fire alarm panels and devices
- Etc.

This is not a complete list of all the items that must be taken into account when performing a load calculation.

Why is it important?

These loads are summed together using NEC demand factors at each panelboard and aggregated as we move upstream in the electrical distribution system until we reach the main electrical service entrance section (SES). This analysis and calculation provides an accurate depiction of how much load the system is expected to experience. This information is used to accurately size each panelboard, distribution board and electrical service. An accurate load calculation can help save the owner money by not oversizing equipment while simultaneously assuring that the electrical distribution system will function properly (I.E its not undersized either).

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