Power is a crucial component of life in the modern world. We are always surrounded by things that are powered in some way. To provide affordable and secure electricity, we must use the best power systems.
Harmonics boost the RMS of the current flow in the circuit and hence increase loss, which has led to a number of issues with the power systems. Harmonics may have an impact on the loads as well as the entire distribution system.
Delicate appliances and equipment in your industrial or commercial facility might potentially be harmed by harmonics. In other cases, the existence of a harmonic breakdown is not immediately apparent and cannot be distinguished from the normal aging of the appliance.
Definition of harmonic distortion:
If harmonic issues arise, they may have a limited impact on the power supply’s dependability. Problems in the power systems are brought on by harmonics in the electric current and voltage. High harmonic levels in power systems can damage or destroy equipment. A non-linear load in an electrical system frequently contributes to harmonics, or distortion of the current waveform. Examples of non-linear loads and harmonically produced loads in power systems include personal computers, variable speed motors, driven motors, fax machines, laser printers, Switch-mode power supplies (SMPS), batteries, and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).
Harmonic Analysis's Relevance:
Electricity systems perform and are of worse quality when harmonic is present. The reliability of the system will increase with the use of harmonic analysis to find harmonics inside the power system. Modern power electronics equipment is often used, which results in nonlinear currents. Harmonics were therefore generated as a result of the system stresses. Equipment and equipment must meet energy-saving criteria and be energy-efficient.
At what points was Harmonic Analysis necessary?
- The harmonic restrictions must be examined if the measured load is greater than 25% of the circuit’s total load or bus system.
- To address harmonics-related issues such as equipment breakdown and damage.
- Harmonic analysis is required when the new capacitor bank is connected to the electrical systems.
- The date that the plant will be enlarged and the quantity of non-linear loads that will be added.
| The equipment types. | A harmonic result. |
|---|---|
Rotating mechanism |
Increased cable resistance, overheating, and torque pulsation. |
Power cables, a transformer, and switchgear |
Overheating, using more, overloading the neutral, and power losses |
Electric capacitors |
High current-related failure |
Power electronics |
Ineffectiveness and failures |
Safeguarding relays |
Malpractice and bothersome tripping |
A nonlinear load interacts with a sinusoidal waveform, causing the system to create distortion and harmonics. Every time it’s important to determine whether there are harmonics present in a system, harmonic analysis is frequently necessary.
Benefits of Power System Harmonics Mitigation:
- Harmonic analysis lowers operational costs by reducing the power losses of cables, switch gears, and safety devices. Additionally, it aids in lowering power system losses.
- It helps reduce transformer oversizing and RMS current in the power system, which reduces the need for cable, switchgear, and busbars.
- Business performance: After cutting losses and lowering the RMS current value, performance is instantly improved. Increased losses, a higher current RMS value, and overheating of cables, transformers, motors, and capacitors are all effects of harmonics. The unfavorable outcomes can force you to quit the procedure and lose money.
Techniques for Analyzing the Power Quality:
- To highlight the nonlinear loads, obtain the one-line graphic.
- Keep a watchful eye on the shared connection point (PCC).
- Draws attention to the plant buses that harmonics could have an impact on.
- Compile all information on non-linear loads and historical harmonic performance of the utility that is accessible.
- Use the ETAP software and the electrical system’s performance to create a mockup.
- Verify the degree of voltage and current distortion, and conduct research and harmonic analysis.
- In the event that harmonic distortion exceeds the allowable level, choose a technique for reducing it.
- Rerun the harmonic analysis after utilizing the mitigation strategy to confirm CEC compliance.
In order to guarantee the security of your electrical equipment and provide you with a trustworthy operating environment, CareLabs provides its personnel with the most up-to-date equipment. Request a quote for CareLabs’ harmonic research and analysis services and learn more now.
