400Hz aircraft ground supply cables for UK Airports

400Hz (frequency) cables are used mainly in the aerospace sector and in a few specific applications such as power supplies for computers or portable machine tools.
The main advantage that led to the use of a higher frequency is that the transformers and motors designed for a frequency of 400 Hz are far more compact and lighter than those built for common 50 or 60 Hz frequencies. On the other hand, the current cannot be economically transported at such frequencies over long distances, which is why the use of 400 Hz remains confined to particular sectors and, in particular, has been adopted as standard for the power supply of commercial and military aircraft. This increase in frequency makes it possible to reduce the weight of onboard generators.
Airport infrastructure facilities have increasingly developed the provision of access to a 400 Hz power supply network for aircraft on the ground to avoid insofar as possible the use of on-board generators during stopovers .