Throughout most of the world, electrical systems operate at specific frequencies. The United States of America primarily uses 60 Hz, while most of Europe uses 50 Hz. Japan uses both, depending on what side of the country you’re on. However, certain industries have to utilize 400 Hz power on a worldwide scale and use this extra power as the standard.
Marine Ships
Many large and expensive watercraft, from military ships in the Navy to submarines that go leagues under the sea, utilize 400 Hz frequency. Due to the immense size and reliance on electricity, it’s beneficial to use 400 Hz power to harness the DC energy of the electronic devices on board the vessel for the safety of the crew and passengers.
Aviation
When you look into which industries have to utilize 400 Hz power, you’ll find that aviation is one of the most common answers. There are many reasons why 400 Hz is the standard of aviation on a global scale. While 400 Hz remains a standard for airlines worldwide, most airports still utilize frequency converters based on their region’s frequency.
Weapons
Much like with seagoing vessels and aerospace crafts, 400 Hz frequency is common practice in different countries’ military and weapon operations. A large part of the reason weaponry utilizes this high-frequency is to remain compatible with the ships and aircraft using it. Higher frequencies lower the weight of magnetic components, so they are easier to screen and pick up on radars, making them an ideal choice for torpedoes and other similar weaponry.
Most industries require 400 Hz frequency because of weight requirements, high reliance on electrical devices, and other reasons that keep things safe and accessible. It’s interesting how countries may use different frequencies for day-to-day devices but focus on a global standard of stability and ingenuity.
