power-quality-3

Power Quality Working Principles in Malaysia

Our Newsletter

For weekly blog entries on our services and how we are changing the world, subscribe to our mailing list by filling out the form below.

The quality of the power supply has a direct influence on the performance and vital operation of the equipment linked to the distribution network. The machinery is assumed to operate as intended and to have a lifespan roughly equivalent to the stated value. Furthermore, it is expected that the network would be reliable enough to prevent issues like poor output or missing functionality. In actuality, the power system has a lot of issues with power quality. No matter how brief they are, these power quality interruptions might damage your device. Maintaining power quality is essential to prevent equipment failure. 

The study needed to evaluate the dependability and quality of power will be covered in this blog article. Then, several techniques and systems for evaluating the impact and controlling power quality are examined. In contrast to dependability, which is concerned with prolonged power outages, effects of power quality disruptions are not always apparent. Other times, though, a power quality interruption has an immediate impact because of a process delay or equipment failure. This is particularly true for breaks, pauses, and transients. 

In other circumstances, the effects of the power quality disturbance might not necessarily be immediately noticeable. One illustration is equipment deterioration. As a result, equipment degradation remains unchecked for a long time. Other times, power quality problems will result in further losses that are ignored because they are viewed as unavoidable. 

The Effects of Subpar Electricity

Direct financial consequences comprise:

  • Losses in manufacturing
  • Restarting a process comes with a price.
  • Equipment damage and repair costs
  • Further issues and delays
  • Concern for people’s wellbeing and safety
  • Financial penalties for breaching contracts
  • Environmental offences are subject to financial sanctions.
  • Costs for utilities rose due to the interruption.

These are a few of the indirect economic effects:

  • The costs experienced by a business as a result of a delay in revenue or profits.
  • The financial effects of a market share decline
  • How much it will cost to increase brand value

Among the social and economic repercussions are:

  • The rise in body temperature that might be harmful to people’s health, safety, or productivity.
  • A personal issue or injury
  • If the change in power quality is not noticed, there might be an electrical hazard.

Understanding the Sources of Poor Power Quality:

Voltage, frequency, and waveform of a power supply system are evaluated to establish its power quality. However, a wide range of variables affect power quality. This blog addresses the following power quality-related issues:

  1. Voltage stability
  2. Voltage difference
  3. Voltage’s vibrations
  4. Voltage flashing or swinging
  5. Power outages and voltage dips

Due to their rarity, other phenomena including swells, transients, inter-harmonics, and noise have received less attention. 

1. Voltage stability 

Long-term sustained voltage magnitudes match stable-state voltage magnitudes (minutes or hours). The major effects of prolonged high voltage (overvoltage) or low voltage include equipment failure, an increase in energy consumption, and potential system malfunction (undervoltage).  

2. Voltage difference 

Unbalanced voltage is typically associated with increased losses, especially in induction and three-phase motors.

  • This has the consequences of reverse torque and bearing wear.
  • Further heating of the rotor and stator
  • The current capacity of installation cables is deteriorating.
  • There are more losses on the neutral conductor.
  • Wires waste more energy.

3. Voltage’s vibrations 

Almost all energy consumers generate harmonic currents and introduce them into the power system. Fundamental frequencies of alternating currents with harmonic currents are multiples of 50 hertz. Computers, variable speed drives (VSD), and discharge lights are the non-linear electrical equipment that creates harmonic currents in the most widespread manner. Harmonic currents are particularly dangerous to the installation and the power distribution system. Component loading, broken components, damaged installation parts, inefficient utilization of the installation’s current carrying capability, shortened component lifespan, and ineffective functioning of protection components are only a few of the detrimental impacts of harmonics. 

4. Voltage flashing or swinging

Voltage waveform envelope modulation is known as flicker. As a result, the light intensity of incandescent lighting sources cycles. Because of this erratic change in light output, some people may experience discomfort, decreased productivity, migraines, and, in very exceptional cases, seizures. 

5. Power outages and voltage dips 

Voltage sags and interruptions have little impact on most equipment; however, lengthier disruptions typically result in output loss owing to equipment tripping. 

Sometimes it is found that the cost of a lengthy interruption is not proportional to its length but rather follows a logarithmic curve. According to experts, the following elements have a substantial impact on how much a prolonged outage will cost: 

  • For instance, it is believed that in the industrial sector, the economic impact of a disruption lasting one second, one minute, or one hour is little.
  • The time, date, and location where it takes place (weekday, weekend, daytime, nighttime)

AEMO calculates the value of customer dependability to evaluate the financial impact of outages on all customers (VCR (Value of Customer Reliability)). Even though most of these numbers reflect customers’ willingness to pay to avoid an inconvenience, it is anticipated that this desire is closely related to the actual cost. 

How Could Problems with the Quality of Power Be Minimized?

CareLabs offers a range of services to locate and evaluate power quality problems. Some of them are:

  • Analysis of Load Flow: This analysis is completed in line with the operating circumstances. System losses, voltage levels, power factors, and power flow rates are all estimated.
  • This approach uses computer algorithms to identify and anticipate future harmonic issues. The results are also used to support reduction strategies.
  • How transients and surges are created is explained in Analysis of Transients and Surges.
  • The research would monitor the voltage’s value, direction, and transient rise and decrease.
  • Analysis of Reactive Power: This study will determine the optimal reactive power at the load and distribution ends.
  • Captive Power Analysis: To fulfill demand while reducing energy surcharges and fuel usage, this research would measure and synchronize captive power.

This project would measure and synchronize captive electricity to be able to satisfy demand while reducing energy surcharges and fuel use. The ETAP – Electrical Transient Analysis Program software is used by CareLabs to analyze and assess power quality. The best program for doing calculations and simulations for each component of an electrical system, assuring the safety of the machinery. 

We offer power quality evaluations in all major cities, including Kuala Lumpur, Seberang Perai, Petaling Jaya, and Johor Bahru. The goal of CareLabs is to provide the greatest service to raise the caliber and dependability of your electrical system. To schedule a power quality assessment or to get a price, get in contact with us right now! 

Our Newsletter

For weekly blog entries on our services and how we are changing the world, subscribe to our mailing list by filling out the form below.