KUN Fernando

D/ENG/18/0184 (EE)

EE – 4243 Power Quality

In class Assignment

Question 1

• Classic non-linear loads

o Transformers
o Machines (Three phase generators)
o Fluorescent Lamps (with Magnetic Ballasts)
• Power Electronic Loads
o Line Commutated Converters
o Voltage-Source Converters
o Switched-Mode Power Supplies
• Other Nonlinear Loads
o Cycloconverters
o Static VAr compensators
o Motor power factor controllers
• Arcing Loads
• Induction Motors
• Electronic Frequency Converters
• Variable Load Dive
• Voltage Sourced Converters (VSCs)
• Power Line Communications
Question 2

Utility related

• Resonance
• Nuisance Tripping of sensitive loads
• Blown capacitor, Failure of capacitor cells and degradation of internal components.
• Overheating of transformers
• Heating effect on conductors

End user related.

• Overloaded neutral conductors in commercial building

• Motor heating
• Telephone interference
• Energy and demand metering issues
• Unwanted energy losses

Question 3

The triplen harmonics of a distorted (non-sinusoidal) periodic signal are harmonics whose frequency is an
odd integer multiple of the frequency of the third harmonic(s) of the distorted signal. Triplen harmonics
can be cosine terms and/or sine terms (in the trigonometric form of the Fourier series), or they can be
combined into cosine terms (in the amplitude-phase form of the Fourier series).

They circulate between the phase and neutral or ground. Triplens do not cancel out as positive and
negative sequence harmonics, they add up arithmetically in the common neutral wire. So as the result the
current amplitude in neutral wire could be 3 times of the amplitude of phase current at the fundamental
frequency. This cause neutral wire to become less efficient and overheat. So as the result the current
amplitude in neutral wire could be 3 times of the amplitude of phase current at the fundamental
frequency. This cause neutral wire to become less efficient and overheat.

Also, Triplen harmonics also overheat transformers (especially delta – wye types), affect solenoids (used
in hydraulic circuits), lightening ballasts, non-linear loads like computers and indirectly initiates
premature failure of anti-friction bearings. In short it creates a random failure pattern across a
manufacturing unit, which most often becomes quite puzzling.

Hence identifying and mitigating triplen harmonics is vital for ensuring the stability and optimal
performance of the electrical system.
Question 4

The ratio of the sum of the powers of all harmonic components to the power of the Fundamental
frequency is the total harmonic distortion, or THD, of a signal.

Total Current Demand Distortion is Calculated harmonic current distortion against the full load (demand)
level of the electrical system.

Also, IEEE 519 defines TDD as “the total root-sum-square harmonic current distortion, in percent of the
maximum demand load current”. TDD is meaningful when monitored at the PCC over a period of time
that reflects maximum customer demand. Per IEEE 519, this is typically 15 minutes to 30 minutes.

TDD(I)=THD at full load (I). As a result, TDD provides us with a better understanding of the magnitude
of harmonic distortion in our system. For instance, we could have a very high THD but a moderate
system load. In this situation, the system's impact is similarly minimal.