What are Harmonic Studies?
Harmonic studies are performed to determine harmonic distortion levels and filtering requirements in a network and to determine if harmonic voltages and currents are at acceptable levels.
Utilities require these data to determine whether the system harmonic levels are below thresholds of IEC Harmonic limits and to see the most dominating harmonic components. To study the resonance safe margin for new network additions such as power transformers, capacitor banks and shunt reactors.
Main reasons as to the importance of Harmonic Studies?
- Avoids damage due to excessive harmonic currents in transformers and capacitor banks.
- Ensures sensitive electronic equipment will not malfunction due to excessive harmonic voltage distortion.
- Satisfies the utility’s voltage and current harmonic distortion requirements.
Harmonic studies should be considered whenever there are solid-state drivers or electric furnaces and capacitor banks in the power system.
