Bridging Circuits and Fields: Foundational Questions in Power Theory - Paperback

by Alexander I. Petroianu (Author)

Energy and power are fundamental concepts in electromagnetism and circuit theory, as well as in optics, signal processing, power engineering, electrical machines, and power electronics. However, in crossing the disciplinary borders, we encounter understanding difficulties due to (1) the many possible mathematical representations of the same physical objects, and (2) the many possible physical interpretations of the same mathematical entities. The monograph proposes a quantum and a relativistic approach to electromagnetic power theory that is based on recent advances in physics and mathematics. The book takes a fresh look at old debates related to the significance of the Poynting theorem and the interpretation of reactive power. Reformulated in the mathematical language of geometric algebra, the new expression of electromagnetic power reflects the laws of conservation of energy-momentum in fields and circuits. The monograph offers a mathematically consistent and a physically coherent interpretation of the power concept and of the mechanism of power transmission at the subatomic (mesoscopic) level. The monograph proves (paraphrasing Heaviside) that there is no finality in the development of a vibrant discipline: power theory.

Author Biography

Alexander I. Petroianu is a specialist in power system analysis, operation, and control. Educated in Russia and Romania, he has broad experience in the power industry as dispatcher and head of the software department at the National Control Center in Romania, head of software development group at Brown-Boveri/ABB Germany, consultant to Eskom, the national power utility of South Africa, and technical manager (transmission) of the South African Power System Studies Institute. He is professor emeritus of Electrical Engineering, University of Cape Town, adjunct professor at the University of Calgary (Canada), a Life Fellow of the IEEE, and member of VDE, SAIEE, CIGRÉ, and IFAC. His recent research has focused on geometrical interpretation of the power transmission phenomenon. This book reflects his investigation into the mathematical and physical aspects of power theory.