Harmonic Analysis in Power System in Greece

Power is a significant part of life in the modern world. The majority of items we use on a daily basis are somehow connected to power. We must use ideal power systems to provide the power in an affordable and secure manner. 

Due to harmonics, which increase the RMS of the current flow in the circuit and thereby increase loss, a number of issues with the power systems have been observed. The entire distribution system, right down to the loads, can be impacted by harmonics. 

Harmonics can also harm delicate appliances and equipment that are present in your industrial and commercial facility. In some cases, the presence of harmonic malfunction does not become apparent right away and cannot be distinguished from the normal aging of the appliance. 

Harmonic distortion definition

The narrow nature of harmonic issues could reduce the dependability of the power system if they do arise. Electric current and voltage harmonics in the power systems are what cause issues in the power systems. High harmonics in the power systems can lead to equipment malfunction or damage. Harmonics, or current waveform distortion, is typically brought on by a non-linear load in the electrical system. Examples of non-linear loads and formed harmonic in the power systems include personal computers, variable speed motors, driven motors, fax machines, laser printers, Switch-mode power supplies (SMPS), batteries, and UPSs.

The Need for Harmonic Analysis

Harmonic reduces the effectiveness and quality of power systems. Your power system reliability will increase as a result of using harmonic analysis to find harmonics that are present in the power system. Modern power electronics equipment is used more frequently, which results in non-linear currents. As a result, harmonics formed because of the loads in the systems. Equipment and devices must be power-saving and adhere to energy-efficiency standards. 

When was the need for Harmonics Analysis?

  • Circuits must check the harmonic limits if the load measurements exceed 25% of their total loads or bus systems. 
  •  To address issues with harmonics, such as equipment damage or malfunction.
  •  The date that the plant will be extended and the number of non-linear loads that will be inserted. 
  • When the additional capacitor bank is connected to the electrical systems, harmonic analysis is required.
The Equipment's Type
A Harmonic Result
Rotating apparatus
Increased cable resistance,power loss,overheating and pulsating torque.
Power cables,switchgear and a transformer
Overheating, consuming more,overloading the neutral and power losses
Electric capacitors
A high current failure
Electronic power
Ineffectiveness and failures
Safeguarding relays
Malpractice and bothersome tripping

Every time a sinusoidal waveform interacts with a non-linear load, distortion and harmonic generation occur in the system. When it is necessary to detect the presence of harmonics in the system, harmonic analysis is typically required. 

Benefits of Power System Harmonics Mitigation:

  • Lower operating costs: Harmonic analysis aids in reducing the power losses of cables, switch gears, and protective devices. Additionally, it aids in lowering power system losses. 
  • Lower capital costs: It reduces the RMS current in the power system and aids in eliminating transformer oversizing, which in turn reduces the need for cable, switchgear, and busbars. 
  • Business performance: It automatically improves performance after cutting losses and lowering the RMS current value. Increased losses, current RMS value, and overheating of cables, transformers, motors, and capacitors are all effects of harmonics. The results won’t be good and could result in a process interruption and financial loss for you.

Procedures for Conducting a Power Quality Analysis:

  • To highlight the non-linear loads, obtain the one-line diagram. 
  • Pay attention to the point of common coupling (PCC). 
  • Draws attention to the in-plant buses that harmonics may affect. 
  • Compile all the information on non-linear loads and the utility company’s historical harmonic performance.
  • Create a mock-up using ETAP software and the electrical system’s performance.
  • Verify the level of voltage and current distortion and conduct the harmonic study and analysis. 
  • Select a mitigating technique if the harmonic distortion exceeds the allowed level. 
  • Rerun the harmonic analysis after applying the mitigation strategy to make sure CEC compliance. 

Care Labs provides technicians with the most up-to-date tools, who guarantee the security of your electrical equipment and give you a reliable operating environment. Get a quote right away and learn more about Care Labs’ harmonic study and analysis services.