Understanding and Managing Power System Harmonics
Abstract
The application of nonlinear electrical loads has increased dramatically in recent years. These loads include computers and other equipment with switch-mode power supplies (SUPS), high-efficiency fluorescent lighting systems with electronic ballasts, and adjustable-speed drives with power electronic convertors. All these loads have nonlinear voltage-current characteristics, and all produce harmonic distortion on the power system. Harmonic currents in the power system can cause unusual effects in the wiring and surrounding power equipment. These effects include the overheating of wires, circuit breakers, transformers, and other equipment, the nuisance tripping of breakers, the saturation of various magnetic components in the system, and the creation of voltage distortion for all joining and connecting loads. This report offers a comprehensive overview of power system harmonics. It includes the causes, effects, and mitigation procedures for harmonic voltages and currents. Field engineers and designers of new facilities will find this report useful. Power system harmonics, Harmonic currents.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA280627
Entities
People
- Franklin H. Holcomb
- Steve J. Briggs
Organizations
- Construction Engineering Research Laboratory