Power systems in the United States are designed to operate at a frequency of 60Hz. However, certain types of loads produce currents / voltage with frequencies that are integral multiples of the 60 Hz fundamental frequency. The presence of these higher frequencies is termed as power system harmonics.
It is the most common power quality problem in power and distribution networks. At the same time, current harmonic distortions are widely observed in factories and manufacturing plants.
With technological advancements and production of a whole new range of appliances, the range of equipment’s causing harmonics has also risen sharply. The statics will continue to rise, so it becomes essential for designers to consider the harmonics and their side effects very carefully.
Care Labs offers detailed harmonic study and analysis for companies in the United States of America. We have been offering electrical safety study and analysis for various companies across globe.
Before we address why harmonic study and analysis is important, let’s answer a few primary questions.
What causes harmonics?
The source of voltage and current harmonics in electrical networks are non-linear loads or devices that draw non -sinusoidal currents.
Examples of non-linear load in industrial and commercial power systems are static power converters such as frequency converters, uninterruptible power system (UPS),adjustable speed drives (ASD), chargers, cyclo converters, etc.
Additionally, power and distribution transformers, arcing devices like arc furnaces, arc welders, and discharge-type lighting such as fluorescent, sodium vapor, mercury vapor with magnetic ballasts are some more prominently found non-linear loads.
Since nonlinear loads are also a major proportion of the entire load in industrial and commercial electrical power distribution systems, harmonic studiesbecome a crucial part of overall system design and operation.
Fig.1 Sample power system with several harmonic sources
Effects of harmonics
Most of the electrical instruments and loads are susceptive to harmonics. Most harmonics lead to their improper functioning of the equipment. The other observed effects are –
- Increased losses
- Malfunctioning of meter devices
- Additional neutral current
- Resonance issues
- Inefficient power consumption
In a power system,
- There is an increased possibility of harmonic amplification resulting from series and parallel resonances.
- In efficiency of generation, transmission and utilization of electric energy.
- Aging of Insulation
- Malfunctioning of power system components.
Understanding harmonic study and analysis –
The effect of harmonics on equipment’s are undesirable and hinder with the performance of the equipment. Hence, harmonic studies play a vital role in depicting and understanding the extent of harmonic problems. Harmonic studies and analysis offer the means to evaluate all probable solution sand their effectiveness over a range of conditions before implementation.
Harmonic studies are performed when:
- Installing large nonlinear loads
- To obtain solution to an existing harmonic problem
- To design a harmonic filter
- During the installation of large capacitor banks on utility distribution /industrial systems
Harmonic study and analysis are performed in accordance to the IEEE Standard 3002.8 – “Recommended Practice for Conducting Harmonic Analysis Studies of Industrial and Commercial Power Systems”
These standards provide methodologies to perform and conduct harmonic studies for industrial and commercial power systems. It provides all basic concepts for harmonic study, importance of this study, collection of data for analysis, study methodologies, prediction of potential problems, corrective measures, and benefits of using software’s for harmonic analysis.
The increasing demand for electrical appliances and heavy equipment’s in commercial and industrial spaces is linked to technological progress, that also means the abundant presence of harmonics further leading to complex breakdowns and causing damages. In addition to that, it also records incidences of frequent electric malfunctions and bad power factor.
It is always a best practice to ensure that all electrical systems are properly maintained and installed professionally to minimize chances of electrical hazards. Harmonic study and analysis ensure to eliminate inefficiencies and minimize losses.
The checklist to perform harmonic study and analysis is exhaustive. Hiring a professional from Care Labs, will help you take load of your shoulders to ensure that everything at your company is up to code and in line with NFPA and OSHA regulations.
We offer our services in California, New York, Illinois, Ohio, Texas, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Washington, Florida, Massachusetts, Michigan, North Carolina, New Mexico, Virginia, and all the major states and cities in the United States of America.
Contact us to get your harmonic study & analysis today!