Harmonics- A Threat to our System !
The article discusses the prevalence and impact of harmonics in power electronics, particularly due to non-linear loads like rectifiers, inverters, and VFDs. Harmonics, defined as frequencies that are integral multiples of a fundamental frequency, can cause power losses, overheating, and nuisance tripping of circuit breakers. The article identifies major causes of harmonics, particularly from modern power-efficient devices. Various mitigation techniques are outlined, including line reactors, active and passive filters, load grouping, and specialized transformer connections. It emphasizes the need for a thorough analysis before applying these techniques to effectively manage harmonics in electrical systems.
PASSIVE HARMONIC FILTER
The author describes their experience in the foundry industry, emphasizing the importance of addressing power factor issues caused by inductive loads and harmonics. Despite initial success, a drop in power factor highlighted the need for harmonic filters. The narrative underscores the necessity of thorough equipment inspection and understanding system components for effective power management.