Star Delta Transformation

We know that by using series / parallel circuit rules we can reduce or simplify the circuit, but in some networks resistances are neither in series nor in parallel but connected in - connection. In such a situation only by converting the network from - or vice versa can a network be simplified & then applied with series / parallel circuit rules.

Note The above two networks will electrically equivalent if the resistance as measured between only pair of terminals is same in both arrangements.

DELTA TO STAR TRANSFORMATION Referring to fig (a) delta network. The resistance between terminals 1 and 2 = RC || (RA + RB) = RC (RA + RB) RC + RA + RB Now referring to star network in fig. (b) The resistance between terminals 1 and 2
1

= R1 + R2

Since the two network are electrically equivalent, R1 + R2 =

( + ) + +

. + . + +

(1)

Similarly,

R2 + R3 =

( + ) + +

. + . + +

(2)

and,

R3 + R1 =

( + ) + +

+ . + +

(3)

Subtracting eq. (2) from eq. (1), we have

+ +

R1 - R3 =

(4)

Now adding eq (3) and (4) we have

R1 =

. + + . + + . + +

(5)

R2 =

(6)

R3 =

(7)

Thus star resistance connected to terminal is equal to the product of two delta resistances connected to the same terminal divided by sum of delta resistances.

Star to Delta Transformation

Now using eq. (4). (5) and (6) we multiply them as R1 . R2 =

. . 2 ( + + )2

(7)

R2 . R3 =

2 . . ( + + )2 . 2 . ( + + )2

(8)

R3 . R1 =

(9)

R1 R2 + R2 R3 + R3 R1

( + + ) ( + + )2

( + + )

= . = . = .

RA

1 2 + 2 3 + 3 1 1

+ +

Similarly RB

1 2 + 2 3 + 3 1 2

= + +

Similarly RC

1 2 + 2 3 + 3 1 3

= + +

Thus delta resistance between two terminals is the sum of two star resistances connected to the same terminal plus the product of two resistances divided by remaining third star resistance. Note : when 3 equal resistances are connected in delta, the equivalent star resistances is given by. R =
. + +

i.e. R = 3RY