Why is Harmonic Analysis and Study Important for Greek Businesses?

Harmonics is an important concept in a power system because it affects power quality and equipment operation. High harmonic levels can cause component overheating, resulting in shortened equipment life. Harmonics distort the pure sinusoidal wave produced by an ideal power source. Harmonic distortion interferes with a company’s production and operations. Here are some examples of how harmonic distortion affects business.

Harmonics cause additional losses in components (Joule effect).
The presence of harmonics results in higher subscribed power and, as a result, higher costs, which leads to an increase in the cost of customer services.
Oversizing of equipment due to power source downsizing
When the distortion level reaches 10%, the life of various components is reduced, resulting in decreased productivity.
Harmonics introduce peak currents, causing nuisance tripping of old technology units, resulting in production losses as well as a high cost for the time required to restore system functionality.

Harmonics Causes:

Harmonics are produced by nonlinear loads that take in current in abrupt short pulses. These pulses generate distorted current waves, which cause harmonic currents to flow into other parts of the power system. The presence of harmonics reduces power quality and efficiency in industries. The majority of businesses have an electrical system that can withstand up to 15% non-linear loads without issue.

If non-linear loads exceed 15%, they may cause harmonic distortions with negative consequences. As a result, it is critical to monitor harmonic levels to ensure that they do not exceed the tolerable limits. Thus, a harmonic study and analysis aids in maintaining insight into potential risks and causes, which can aid in avoiding harmonic-related problems during the design stage and reducing the possibility of undesirable effects occurring.

Harmonic Analysis Procedure:

Even if the likelihood of harmonic problems is low, a timely harmonic analysis is required to ensure that harmonics are at tolerable levels. The harmonic level steps are as follows:

The first step is to obtain an electrical one-line diagram and identify available nonlinear loads.
The diagram focuses on the location of the common coupling (PCC).
Distortion-prone plants in system buses are highlighted.
All harmonics-related data has been collected.
Obtain from utility companies the predetermined PCC values, including the highest and lowest short circuit fault levels, as well as the tolerable values of current and voltage harmonics.
A simulated harmonic analysis is performed using freely available software.
Conduct a harmonic analysis of the electrical system.
Determine the total and discrete current and voltage distortions at the buses and PCC.
Draw a harmonic frequency spectrum.
Select appropriate harmonic control measures. The harmonic distortion exceeds the allowable levels.
Repeat the harmonic analysis after incorporating mitigation methods.

Care Labs is an authorized provider of harmonic analysis and study. Experienced professionals can perform clear and safe analyses to identify potential harmonic levels and can assist in keeping harmonics at tolerable levels without causing future problems.

Advantages of Care Labs Service:

More secure power systems in accordance with government standards and guidelines
Fully integrated power systems save time and money.
Create a more secure working environment
Provide quick alternatives in an emergency.
Expand safety margins
Save time by generating arc flash labels and work permits automatically.
Avoid potential fines and legal fees.

Care Labs has crew members deployed in various locations, ensuring that our specialists are nearby in the event of a routine or emergency. Care Labs has quickly established itself as an ISO 9001:2008 certified organization and has amassed a reputable client base with positive feedback.

Athens, Thessaloniki, Patras, Larissa, and Heraklion are just a few of the major cities where Care Labs offers harmonic investigation and analysis services.