Concept:
An AC voltage regulator controls the RMS value of AC voltage supplied to a load without changing the frequency.
These regulators are commonly used where:
• smooth speed control is required,
• low-cost control is needed,
• torque requirement is moderate.
Typical applications include:
• fan speed control,
• light dimmers,
• heating control.
Step 1: Understanding the operation of AC voltage regulators.
AC voltage regulators work by controlling:
\[
V_{\text{RMS}}
\]
of the AC supply using devices such as:
• TRIAC,
• SCR,
• thyristors.
The output voltage is varied by phase angle control.
Step 2: Analyzing option (1).
Fan drives require:
• simple speed variation,
• low power control,
• economical implementation.
AC voltage regulators are ideally suited for such applications.
Hence:
\[
\text{Fan drives}
\]
is the correct answer.
Step 3: Analyzing option (2).
Traction drives require:
• precise speed control,
• high torque,
• sophisticated converters.
AC voltage regulators are generally not preferred.
Step 4: Analyzing option (3).
Synchronous motor drives usually require:
• variable frequency control,
• excitation control.
Thus AC voltage regulators are not commonly used.
Step 5: Analyzing option (4).
Slip-power recovery schemes involve:
• rotor power recovery,
• converters and inverters,
• induction motor slip control.
Hence simple AC voltage regulators are not used.
Step 6: Selecting the correct answer.
Therefore the correct option is:
\[
\boxed{(1)\text{ Fan drives}}
\]