I'll use my simplified model of 3-phase generation. Assume the alternator has 3 coils at 120⁰ apart; each is connected to the primaries of 3 step-up transformers. One terminal each of the secondaries of the transformer is connected to the HT transmission cable forming a 3-wire long distance cable. Let the other end of the secondary coils be joint together and let this node be Z; assume Z is earthed.
My questions are:
1) Is my simplified model acceptable.
2) If 1) is acceptable, then can the model work if Z is not connected to earth, say it is left hanging in air.
3) If Z can be left hanging in the air, is there a consensus if Z should be earthed? Or what is the actual practice?
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