In the contemporary world, power is necessary for survival. Most everyday goods are powered in some way. To provide electricity that is both economical and secure, we must deploy the most efficient power technology. Several power system concerns have been found because of harmonics, which raise the RMS of the circuit’s current flow and consequently increase loss. Harmonics can impact the distribution system, including the loads. Harmonics can also cause damage to sensitive appliances and equipment in industrial and commercial structures. In rare instances, the existence of a harmonic breakdown is not readily visible and cannot be separated from the appliance’s regular ageing.
Harmonic Distortion is Definition
If harmonic issues emerge, their limited scope may undermine the reliability of the power supply. Electric current and voltage harmonics are problems in power systems. In power systems, excessive harmonic levels can result in equipment failure or damage. A non-linear load typically creates harmonics, or distortion of the current waveform, in an electrical system. Personal computers, variable speed motors, driven motors, fax machines, laser printers, Switch-mode power supplies (SMPS), batteries, and uninterruptible power supplies are examples of non-linear and harmonically generated loads in power systems (UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supplies)).
The Significance of Harmonic Analysis
Electrical systems’ efficacy and quality are diminished by harmonic interference. Using harmonic analysis to identify harmonics inside the power system will boost the system’s dependability. Frequent use of contemporary power electronics equipment results in nonlinear currents. Consequently, harmonics are produced dependent on system loads. Equipment must be compatible with energy-saving requirements and energy-efficient.
When is a Harmonics Analysis Required?
- If the measured load exceeds 25 percent of the circuit’s total load or bus system, check the harmonic limits.
- To handle harmonics-related concerns such as equipment damage and malfunction.
- The date of the plant’s expansion and the number of non-linear loads that will be added.
- Harmonic analysis is necessary when the new capacitor bank is connected to the electrical systems.
| THE TYPE OF EQUIPMENT | RESULTS IN HARMONY |
|---|---|
Rotating machinery |
Cable resistance that is increased, power loss, overheating, and pulsing torque. |
A transformer, switchgear, and power wires |
Excessive consumption, overloading the neutral, overheating, and power losses |
The electrical capacitors |
A failure with high current |
Electric force |
Inefficiency and shortcomings |
Relay protection |
Mistakes and inconvenient trips |
When a sinusoidal waveform interacts with a nonlinear load, distortion and harmonics are produced by the system. Harmonic analysis is often required to identify the existence of harmonics in a system.
Power System Harmonics Advantages Mitigation:
- Harmonic analysis reduces the power losses of cables, switch gears, and safety devices, hence decreasing operational expenses. In addition, it helps reduce power system losses.
- It minimizes the RMS current of the power system and prevents transformer oversizing, hence reducing the requirement for cable, switchgear, and busbars.
- Company performance: It increases business performance automatically by reducing losses and decreasing the RMS current value. Harmonics result in increased losses, current RMS value, and overheating of cables, transformers, motors, and capacitors. The unfavorable outcomes may cause you to discontinue the procedure and incur monetary losses.
Methods for Conducting a Power Quality Analysis:
- Acquire a single-line graph that emphasizes nonlinear loads.
- Concentrate intently on the common link (PCC).
- Calls attention to plant buses which may be affected by harmonics.
- Compile all pertinent data on non-linear loads and the utility’s previous harmonic performance.
- Create a mockup utilizing ETAP (Electrical Transient Analysis Program) software and the performance of the electrical system.
- Determine the amount of voltage and current distortion and perform harmonics research and analysis.
- Select a method for minimizing harmonic distortion if it exceeds the allowable threshold.
- After employing the mitigation method, the harmonic analysis must be done to ensure CEC compliance.
CareLabs equips its staff with innovative equipment to ensure the security of your electrical equipment and give you a reliable working environment. CareLabs offers research and analysis services for harmonics obtaining a quotation to learn more.
