1. What is harmonic distortion?
Harmonic distortion is the presence of frequencies in the output of a device that are not
present in the input signal, and are multiples of components of the input signal. Clipping is a
common cause but other nonlinearities can also introduce harmonics
What is current distortion vs voltage distortion?
Voltage distortion is any deviation from the nominal sine waveform of the AC line voltage. A
similar definition applies for current distortion; however, voltage distortion and current
distortion are not the same. Each affects loads and power systems differently, and each
requires a different solution.
2. Power system quality under non sinusoidal condition
Power analysis. For sinusoidal conditions, the reactive power can be reduced to zero by inserting
inductive or capacitive components. If the reactive power is reduced to zero, the power factor
will be unity. But, in non-sinusoidal conditions, reactive power cannot be reduced to zero due
to residual components.
3. Power quality monitoring equipment
A Power Monitoring Device measures power consumption in order to support energy-saving
activities. Electricity is not visible, but it is a familiar, convenient form of energy that is
converted into heat, light, sound, power, or other forms and can be used.
Wiring and grounding test devices
Multimeters, Oscilloscopes, Disturbance analyzers,Harmonic analyzers and spectrum
analyzers,Combination disturbance and harmonic analyzers,Flicker meters,Energy
monitors.
4. Power quality benchmarking
Power quality benchmarking is an important aspect in the overall structure of a power quality
program. The benchmarking process begins with defining the metrics to be used for
benchmarking and evaluating service quality.
How is power quality measured?
Another method to measure power quality is to use an oscilloscope or a waveform analyzer to
capture and display the shape of the voltage and current waveforms. This can help you
identify any abnormalities or distortions in the waveform, such as harmonics, interharmonics,
notches, noise, or flicker.
5. What is power quality monitoring?
A PQM System will gather, analyze, and interpret raw electricity measurement data into useful
information. A typical monitoring system measures voltage and electrical current, but ground quality
may also be measured if unbalanced loads or harmonics are detected.
Voltage Level
Many electronic devices work within a specific voltage range. Variations in the voltage level can
cause the equipment to malfunction and cause power quality problems. Low voltages, for
instance, can lead to reduced efficiency, and equipment damage, whereas high voltages can
cause overheating and even equipment failure.
Unbalanced Voltage
Unbalanced voltage is a power quality issue where the three phases of a three-phase power
system have different magnitudes, creating an asymmetrical waveform. This asymmetry can be
caused by unbalanced loads, faulty connections, or phase-to-ground faults.
Unequal voltage levels in different phases of the system can cause unbalanced current flow,
leading to overheating of equipment and reduced operating efficiency. Negative or zero-
sequence components in the voltage waveform can lead to ground fault current flow, causing
damage to equipment and creating safety hazards.
Voltage Sag
Voltage sag or dip is a temporary reduction of voltage below the normal level that lasts for a few
cycles to a few seconds. It is caused by a sudden increase in load, a voltage drop in the power
grid, or a fault in the system.
Voltage Swell
Voltage swell is a temporary increase in voltage above the normal level that lasts for a few
cycles to a few seconds. It is caused by sudden changes in load or when a fault on the system is
cleared.
Voltage Interruption
Voltage interruption is a complete loss of voltage for a short period of time. It can be caused by a
fault in the distribution system or by lightning strikes, and it can last from a few milliseconds to a
few minutes. This interruption can cause equipment to shut down or reset, causing damage or
data loss.
Flicker
A flicker is a momentary or sustained variation of voltage characterized by rapid changes in
magnitude. It is caused by sudden changes in load, such as the starting of large motors, or by the
operation of certain power system equipment like arc furnaces, welding machines, or large
drives. The variation in voltage can cause lighting to flicker, which can be noticeable and
annoying to occupants. Flicker events are measured by their frequency and depth, and they can
impact the performance and lifetime of electronic equipment.
Electrical interference
Interference occurs when noises from other sources, such as other electrical systems, power
lines, or even radio transmissions, get mixed in with the electrical signal. Electrical noise can
result in signal degradation that can interfere with the equipment’s functioning.
Lack of grounding
Grounding refers to connecting an electrical circuit to the earth. This helps ensure stability,
reduce noise and interference, and prevent shocks from electrostatic buildup. Without proper
grounding, sensitive electronic equipment can malfunction or become damaged.
Harmonics
Harmonics are higher-frequency electrical signals that contaminate the power delivered by
utilities to businesses and homes. Electronic devices with nonlinear loads produce harmonics that
can interfere with distribution equipment’s operation and cause damage to electrical equipment.
Power Factor
Power Factor (cosφ) is the relation between apparent power and active power. Inefficient
systems tend to have more apparent power than active power, leading to wastage of energy and
possibilities of equipment damages.
Transients
Transients refer to sudden and brief fluctuations in voltage or current that occur over a short
period of time. They can be caused by events such as lightning strikes, switching operations, or
faults in the power system. Transients can range from a few microseconds to several
milliseconds in duration, and they can have a significant impact on the operation and reliability
of electrical systems and equipment.
Transient voltage surge suppressors, surge protective devices, and other protective measures can
be implemented to limit the effects of transients on electrical systems and equipment.
7. Harmonic sources from commercial and industrial loads can be a significant concern for power
quality and electrical system reliability. Here are some common harmonic sources:
Commercial Loads
1. Fluorescent Lighting: Fluorescent lamps, especially those with magnetic ballasts, can generate
significant harmonics.
2. Computer and Office Equipment: Switch-mode power supplies (SMPS) used in computers, printers,
and other office equipment can produce harmonics.
3. Elevators and Escalators: Variable frequency drives (VFDs) used in elevators and escalators can
generate harmonics.
4. Air Conditioning and Refrigeration: VFDs used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems can also
produce harmonics.
Industrial Loads1. Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs): VFDs used in industrial applications, such as motor
control, can generate significant harmonics.
2. Welding Equipment: Arc welding equipment can produce harmonics due to the non-linear
characteristics of the welding process.
3. Induction Furnaces: Induction furnaces used in metal melting and heating applications can generate
harmonics.
4. Power Supplies for Industrial Equipment: SMPS used in industrial equipment, such as robotics and
medical devices, can produce harmonics.
Effects of Harmonics
1. Overheating of Equipment: Harmonics can cause overheating of equipment, leading to reduced
lifespan and increased maintenance costs.
2. Resonance and Amplification: Harmonics can cause resonance and amplification in electrical systems,
leading to increased stress on equipment and potential failures.
3. Power Quality Issues: Harmonics can cause power quality issues, such as voltage distortion, current
distortion, and flicker.
4. Energy Efficiency: Harmonics can also lead to energy efficiency issues, as they can cause additional
energy losses in electrical systems.
Mitigation Techniques
1. Passive Filters: Passive filters, such as inductors and capacitors, can be used to mitigate harmonics.
2. Active Filters: Active filters, such as power electronic devices, can be used to actively cancel out
harmonics.
3. Harmonic Filters: Harmonic filters, such as tuned filters, can be used to selectively filter out specific
harmonic frequencies.
4. Load Balancing: Load balancing techniques, such as load rotation and load shedding, can be used to
reduce harmonic distortion.
8. Use of flicker meter
1. Lighting Quality Assessment: Flicker meters help assess the quality of lighting in various environments,
such as offices, homes, and industrial settings.
2. Flicker Measurement: Flicker meters measure the flicker percentage, which indicates the degree of
flicker present in a lighting system.
3. Compliance Testing: Flicker meters are used to test lighting products for compliance with
international standards, such as IEEE 1789 and IEC 61000-3-3.
4. Troubleshooting: Flicker meters help identify and troubleshoot flicker-related issues in lighting
systems, such as faulty ballasts or drivers.
5. Research and Development: Flicker meters are used in research and development to test and
evaluate new lighting technologies and products.
Types of Flicker Meters
1. Handheld Flicker Meters: Portable, handheld devices that measure flicker percentage and other
lighting parameters.
2. Benchtop Flicker Meters: Laboratory-grade devices that provide high-accuracy flicker measurements
and other advanced features.
3. Data Logger Flicker Meters: Devices that record flicker data over time, allowing for long-term
monitoring and analysis.
Benefits of Using a Flicker Meter
1. Improved Lighting Quality: Flicker meters help ensure that lighting systems provide a comfortable and
distraction-free environment.
2. Compliance with Standards: Flicker meters enable manufacturers and testing laboratories to verify
compliance with international standards.
3. Cost Savings: Identifying and troubleshooting flicker-related issues can help reduce maintenance and
replacement costs.
4. Enhanced Product Development: Flicker meters aid in the development of high-quality lighting
products that meet customer expectations.
9. Types of Harmonic Distortion
1. Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): Measures the total amount of harmonic distortion present in a
signal.
2. Total Demand Distortion (TDD): Measures the maximum demand distortion over a 15- or 30-minute
period.
3. Individual Harmonic Distortion: Measures the distortion of each harmonic frequency.
Methods for Harmonic Distortion Evaluation
1. IEEE 519 Standard: Provides guidelines for harmonic distortion limits in power systems.
2. IEC 61000-3-2 Standard: Specifies limits for harmonic current emissions from equipment.
3. Fast Fourier Transform (FFT): A mathematical technique used to analyze harmonic distortion in
signals.
4. Harmonic Analysis Software: Specialized software, such as MATLAB or PSCAD, used to analyze and
evaluate harmonic distortion.
Parameters Evaluated
1. Harmonic Frequency: The frequency of each harmonic component.
2. Harmonic Magnitude: The amplitude of each harmonic component.
3. Harmonic Phase Angle: The phase angle of each harmonic component.
4. THD and TDD Values: The total harmonic distortion and total demand distortion values.
Effects of Harmonic Distortion
1. Overheating of Equipment: Harmonic distortion can cause overheating of equipment, leading to
reduced lifespan.
2. Resonance and Amplification: Harmonic distortion can cause resonance and amplification in power
systems, leading to equipment damage.
3. Power Quality Issues: Harmonic distortion can cause power quality issues, such as voltage distortion
and current distortion.
4. Energy Efficiency: Harmonic distortion can lead to energy efficiency issues, as it can cause additional
energy losses in power systems.
Mitigation Techniques
1. Passive Filters: Passive filters, such as inductors and capacitors, can be used to mitigate harmonic
distortion.
2. Active Filters: Active filters, such as power electronic devices, can be used to actively cancel out
harmonic distortion.
3. Harmonic Filters: Harmonic filters, such as tuned filters, can be used to selectively filter out specific
harmonic frequencies.
4. Load Balancing: Load balancing techniques, such as load rotation and load shedding, can be used to
reduce harmonic distortion.
