WATER AND ENERGY

INTERNATIONAL
VOLUME 63/RNI, NO. 6 ISSN: 0974-4711
September 2020 Rs. 200/-

A TED SER

CENTRAL BOARD OF IRRIGATION & POWER

IC V

93
D

IC
DE

NEW DELHI Years

 4. IS 17036
for Harmonic Control in Electric Power Systems, New-York,
Distribution System Supply Voltage Qua
NY: IEEE

5. “Harmonics
2. Central Electricity Authority (Technical Standards – Causes, Effects
for Connectivity to and Minimization” – R
the Grid) Amendment Regulations, 2013
6. Forum of Regulators, India – Power Quality Regulat
harmonic is defined as a sinusoidal component of a periodic wave o
3. Central Electricity Authority “ Power Quality At A Large Induction

Fundamental of Harmonics and quantity Furnace Industry – Issues On Current Harmonics And
AUTHORS Regulations“
BIOGRAPHICAL DETAIL: of the
having a frequency that is an integral multiple
4. IS 17036 - Distribution System Supply Voltage Quality Heeral Patel, 3rd -year student, B.T
fundamental frequency (Refer figure 1).

Study of its Impact on Electrical

Engineering, University of Petroleum
The growing use of– highly
5. “Harmonics non-linear
Causes, Effects devices
and Minimization” has contributed
– Ramon Pinyol
Studies. to an increas
in the generation of harmonic
6. Forum of Regulators, India –currents introduced
Power Quality Regulations ininto
Indiathe power systems.

Power System AUTHORS BIOGRAPHICAL DETAIL:

Heeral Patel, 3rd -year student, B.Tech in Sunidhi

Electrical Sharma, 3rd -year student,
Engineering, University of Petroleum andEnergy
Electrical Engineering, University of
Studies. Energy Studies.
w & e internatioNal (Energy section)

Dr. RAJESH K. ARORA Heeral PatelSunidhi Sunidhi Sharma

rd
Sharma, 3 -year student, B.Tech in

Delhi Transco Limited Student, B.Tech in Electrical Engineering, University of Petroleum & Energy Studies
Electrical Engineering, University of Petroleum and
Energy Studies.
Abstract
In electric power systems, waveforms of voltage and current are one of the most important functions which
are mainly focused. Voltage and current functions are the foundation concepts in the power system. Non-linear
devices like arcing devices, transformers, fluorescent lamps, power Fig.1converters, rotating machines
Harmonics Wave Form are the main
sources of harmonics by which distortion in power system is produced. Harmonic impacts may cause equipment
heating, equipment breakdown, system losses, equipment failure, system mal-operation and etc. Therefore, the
harmonics studies have become a significant There are Harmonics
concern. two types also of loads:
affect voltage,Linear and
current, non-linear.
power factor, and The relationshi
frequency. Theory related to harmonics, the conceptthe
between of harmonic quantities,
voltage and currenttypes of harmonics,
waveforms the associated
is sinusoidal in linear loads, an
harmonics problems in LV, HV, and EHV system are explained in this paper. Methods of measuring harmonics,
the current
limits of harmonics for different voltage levels, is proportional
and its reduction methods areto also
the discussed.
voltage at any time, following the ohm’
Law as shown
Keywords : Harmonics, Linear loads, Non-linear in figure
loads, Odd 2.
Harmonics, Even Harmonics, Voltage, Current,
Harmonic Analyzer, THD, TDD.
1. INTRODUCTION
The efficiency of electrical power supply is a significant
concern for both utility providers and consumers, but
this consistency can be impacted by electromagnetic
disturbances. Among these disturbances, the harmonics that
occur at all voltage levels must be highlighted. Harmonics
are the disturbances in the voltage and current which Few distort
examples of linear loads are shown in figure 3 such as – Incandescent

their sinusoidal form. These disturbances are created by
lamps, thetransformers, motors etc.
Fig. 2 : Linear load
non-linear load which is connected to the distribution side. In Fig.2 Linear load
other words, harmonics are waveforms of higher frequencies Few examples of linear loads are shown in Figure 3 such
that are superimposed on circuit frequency. According to as – Incandescent lamps, transformers, motors etc.
IEEE,
harmonicharmonic
is definedisas defined as component
a sinusoidal a sinusoidal component
of a periodic wave orof
aquantity
periodichaving
wavea or quantitythat
frequency having
is an aintegral
frequency thatofisthe
multiple an
integral multiple
fundamental of the
frequency fundamental
(Refer figure 1). frequency (Figure 1).
The growing use of highly non-linear devices has contributed to an increase
The growing use of highly non-linear devices has
in the generation of harmonic currents introduced into the power systems.
contributed to an increase in the generation of harmonic
currents introduced into the power systems.

Fig. 1 : Harmonics Wave Form

Fig.1 Harmonics Wave Form
There are two types of loads : Linear and non-linear. The
relationship
There are two between
types of the voltage
loads: Linear and current waveforms
and non-linear. The relationshipis
sinusoidal in linear
between the voltage and loads, and the current
current waveforms is proportional
is sinusoidal to
in linear loads, and

the voltage at any time, following the ohm’s Law as shown

the current is proportional to the voltage at any time, following the ohm’s 
inLaw as shown in figure 2.
Figure 2. Fig. 3 : Examples of Linear load
Fig.3 Examples of Linear load
14 WATER and ENERGY INTERNATIONAL September 2020
Non-linear load occurs when current and voltage are not proportional. These
non- linear loads create disturbances in the waveform of the current and this
 Odd Harmonics: These have frequencies like 3f,5f and so on. There is
always a positive half cycle remaining for odd harmonics and has no
negative half cycle to cancel it. That is the reason why odd harmonics are
considered.

Non-linear load occurs when current and voltage are not

proportional. These non- linear loads create disturbances
in the waveform of the current and this results in the
disturbances in voltage as shown in Figure 4. In non-linear
loads, there is a change in impedance with the change in
applied voltage.

Fig. 6 : Odd and Even Harmonics

Fig.4 Non-Linear Load Fig.6 Odd and Even Harmonics

w & e internatioNal (Energy section)

Harmonics are further divided into three types:
Harmonics are further divided into three types:
(i) Positive Sequence Harmonics: Harmonics that rotate in
mples of nonlinear loads are printers, TVs,
i. battery
Positive
the same chargers,
Sequence
seriesHarmonics: Harmonics that rotate in the same
as the fundamental, are called positive
Fig. 4 : Non-Linear Load series as the fundamental, are called positive series. Example - 7th
series.Ha
Example - 7th
iii. Zero
Z Sequ
uence armonics s: harmonic.
It is allso known n as Triplle harmon nics.
allasts, variableFig.4
frequency
Non-Linear drives,
Load and switching
Zero
iii. TVs,
Some examples of nonlinear loads are printers, harmonic. mode power
Z battery
Sequ uence Ha armonics s: Harmonics:
It is allsoHarmonics
known n as that Tripl le harmon nics.
T
These are (ii)
those Negative
whiichSequence
not at all rotate e because they rotate
are in phase with
chargers, electronic ballasts, variable frequency drives,ii. Negative
ch examples
me are shown in figure
of nonlinear loads5.are printers, TVs,These
T battery thoseaswhi
arechargers, theichfundamental
not atrd allinrotate
Sequence the opposite
Harmonics: Harmonicsseries, are called
that rotate
th e because they are in phase with
as the
and switching mode power supplies which are shown
e
each in rfundamental
other are. Exam
negative mple-
inseries. 3Example
the opposite and 9-5th
series, ha
are armonics.
harmonic.
called negative These
series.ha rmonics don't
Example d
ctronic ballasts, rd th
Figurevariable
5. frequency drives, and switchinge
each mode
other power
r are. Exam mple-
-5th harmonic. 3 and 9 haarmonics. These ha rmonics d
don't
cancel eac (iii) other
ch Zero Sequence
a
and getsHarmonics:
added dir It rectly
is also known t asNeutr
to the Triple
ral conducctor.
pplies which are shown in figure 5. cancel eacchmonics harmonics.
other res a sultgets
and These are those which not at all rotate because
T
Triple harm in anaddedincrease dirrectly
o current
of to thet in the
Neutrsyral conduc
stem. ctor.
Thiis is
they are in phase with each other are. Example- 3rd
T the harm
Triple monics
reaso on and res
that sult
9th in in an
a 3-p
harmonics. increase
phase o
of
sy current
ystem,
These harmonics don’t in the
wcancel har
when sy
each stem. Thi
rmonics are is is
thep reaso
present, on the other
that sizand
ine gets
aof3-padded
he directly
phase
th neutr sy to
ralthe cond
ystem, Neutral
w
when conductor.
ductor har
inrmonics are
ncreases as
Triple harmonics result in an increase of current in the
p compared
present,
c the sizeseThis
d tosystem.
phas of isth
conduc he neutr
thectors.
reason ral
Dif incond
fferent
that ductor
seqquence
a 3-phase in
ncreases
of
system,f harmoniccs asis
c shown in
compared d Figure
Fto phaswhen7se harmonics
anndconduc
wavefo are
ctors.present,
orms are the
Diffferent
s
shown size of
seq the
in quence
F
Figure neutral
8.off harmonic cs is
conductor increases as compared to phase conductors.
shown in Figure
F 7 annd wavefo
Different sequence orms are shown
of harmonicss is shown in Figure
F in Figure 8. 7
and waveforms are shown in Figure 8.

Fig.5 Examples of Non-Linear Loads


0 TYPES OF HARMONICS
Fig. 5 : Examples of Non-Linear Loads

Fig.5
2. the
rmonics affect Examples
TYPES OF
voltage, of Non-Linear
HARMONICS
frequency, Loads
current, wave shape, etc. in the
wer system. Harmonics
There are affect the voltage,
two types frequency,
of harmonics: current,
even wave and odd
harmonics 
shape, etc. in the power system. There are two types of
OF HARMONICS
monics. (Shown in figure 6)
harmonics: even harmonics and odd harmonics. (Shown in Fig.7 Different
D t Sequenc
ce of Har
rmonics 
Figure 6) 
en Harmonics: These have frequencies like 2f,4f etc. The waveform does Fig. 7 : Different Sequence of Harmonics
affect the
get much
Evenvoltage,
and can frequency,
Harmonics: These
distorted current,
have frequencies
be protected. The wave
like 2f,4f etc.
reason behind this isshape,
The
Fig.7 D etc. tinSequenc
that Different the ce of Harrmonics 
waveform does not get much distorted and can be protected.
m. ThereTheare
reasontwo
behindtypes
this is thatof harmonics:
even harmonics have aneven
equal harmonics and odd
number of half periods, both positive and negative which
(Shown in figure
cancel 6) It is because even harmonics are exactly
each other.
180 degrees out of phase every time.
Odd Harmonics: These have frequencies like 3f,5f and so
onics: These
on. Therehave
is alwaysfrequencies like
a positive half cycle 2f,4fforetc.
remaining odd The waveform does
harmonics and has no negative half cycle to cancel it. That
h distorted
is the and canoddbe
reason why protected.
harmonics The reason behind this is that
are considered.

Fig. 8 : Waveforms for Harmonics of Different Order

Fig.8 WavefWATER
formsand
for
r ENERGY
Harmon nics of Different
INTERNATIONAL O
Order
September 2020 15
 From Table 1, it can be concluded that the sequencing of 1200 apart from each other. We can see that 3rd harmonics
the harmonics is the multiplication of the fundamental starts from 0 to 600 to 1200 to 1800. This triple harmonic
frequency
From with
table 1, it theconcluded
can be order that
of odd and even
the sequencing frequencies.
of the harmonics is is in phase and is not 1200 apart from each other. Triple
Formultiplication
the the fundamental frequency
of the fundamental i.e. 50Hz,
frequency theorder
with the sequence is
of odd and odd harmonics are the most damaging to an electrical
positive. The second multiple of the fundamental frequencyis
even frequencies. For the fundamental frequency i.e. 50Hz, the sequence system because these harmonics on the A-phase, B-phase
i.e. 100Hz,
positive. the sequence
The second multiple of is
thenegative.
fundamentalThe third multiple
frequency i.e. 100Hz, of
the and C-phase are in sequence with each other. They do not
the fundamental frequency i.e. 150Hz, the sequence is zero.
sequence is negative. The third multiple of the fundamental frequency i.e.
cancel each other. Instead, they add up arithmetically in the
150Hz, the sequence is zero. The same sequence continues as we move
The same sequence continues as we move forward to the common neutral wire which is subjected to currents from all
forward to the next multiple of the fundamental frequency.
next multiple of the fundamental frequency. three phases. (Figure 10)
Table 1 Sequencing of Harmonics
Table 1 : Sequencing of Harmonics
w & e internatioNal (Energy section)

3. SIGNIFICANCE OF THIRD
3.0 SIGNIFICANCE OF THIRD HARMONICS
HARMONICS
The frequencies we usually come across are multiples of the fundamental
The frequencies we usually come across are multiples of
frequency that is 50 Hz e.g. the second harmonic is two times 50 Hertz, or
the fundamental frequency that is 50 Hz e.g. the second
we can say 100 Hz, the third harmonic is 150 Hertz and so on. In our three
harmonic
phase power is two times
systems, 50 Hertz,
the “even” or we
harmonics can say
(second, 100sixth,
fourth, Hz, the
etc.)

third so
cancel, harmonic is 150
we only need Hertz
to deal and
with the so harmonics.
“odd” on. In our three phase
power
Even systems,
harmonics the “even”
are symmetrical harmonics
waveforms, (second,
i.e. where fourth,
the positive and
sixth, etc.) cancel, so we only need to deal with
negative half cycles are the same shape and magnitude, cancel outthe “odd”
each
harmonics.
other.

Even harmonics are symmetrical waveforms, i.e. where the

Unlike the positive and negative sequence harmonic currents that 
positive and negative half cycles are the same shape and
cancel each other out, third order or triple harmonics do not cancel
Fig. Fig.10
10 : Wave
WaveForm
Formfor
for Third Harmonics
Third Harmonics
magnitude,
out. cancel
(Refer figure 9) out each other.
For fundamental
For fundamental frequency,
frequency,
Unlike the positive and negative sequence harmonic currents R-phase , V = l V l cos wt
that cancel each other out, third order or triple harmonics do R-phase , V
an
an = l V l cos wt 0
Y-phase , Vbn = l V l cos (wt-120 )
not cancel out. (Figure 9) Y-phase
B-phase , ,Vcn
V=bn l=V ll cos
V l (wt+120
cos (wt-120
0
)
o
)
rd
B-phase , Vcn = l V l cos (wt+120o)
and for 3 harmonics,
Van3 = l V l cos3wt
and for 3rd harmonics,
Vbn3 = l V l cos (3wt-3600) = l V l cos3wt

Van3 = l V l cos3wt
Vcn3 = l V l cos (3wt+3600) = l V l cos3wt

Vbn3 = l V l cos (3wt-360o) = l V l cos3wt

Vcn3 = l V l cos (3wt+3600) = l V l cos3wt
This means,
Van3 = Vbn3 = Vcn3
So, they will not cancel each other.
The zero-phase sequence means that the magnitudes of
three- phases have zero phase displacement between them.

4. MEASUREMENT OF HARMONICS &

RESULTS PRESENTATION
In order to do the assessment of the cause of harmonics and
to which extent the problem of power quality is there, there
is need to measure the harmonics in the network.
A harmonics analyzer (shown in Figure 11) is considered
to be the most powerful instrument for conducting power
Fig. 9Wave
Fig.9 : WaveForm
Form for
forDifferent
DifferentHarmonics
Harmonics quality analysis in detail and to do the assessment of the
R-phase starts from 0 to 180 to 360 . Y-phase starts from 0voltage and current wave along with their shapes on the
o o o
R-phase starts0 from 0 to 1800 to 3600. Y-phase starts from 120 respective
and B- frequency spectrums. A harmonics analyzer is
120 and B-phase starts from 2400. This means RYB are
phase starts from 240 . This means RYB are 120 apart from each other. to
0 0 used Wegive the suspect source a thorough analysis.
can see that 3rd harmonics starts from 0 to 600 to 1200 to 1800. This
16 WATER and ENERGY INTERNATIONAL September 2020
triple harmonic is in phase and is not 1200 apart from each other. Triple odd
harmonics are the most damaging to an electrical system because these
These all are harmonic indicator. Data
shown in figurestorage
14. is also one of
rce a thorough analysis.
of Digital Analyzer. Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) which is a
ance algorithm which has been used in this. Depending on
measurement, 40th or 50th order harmonics of amplitude and
culated.

alues of power factor, individual harmonic amplitude, crest

Fig.14 Power System Harmonic Analyzer
hese all are harmonic indicator.
Fig. 11 : Harmonics Analyzer Data storage is also one of

w & e internatioNal (Energy section)

Fig.
Different types11 Harmonics
of harmonic
4.analyzer Analyzer
are-
Spectrum Analyzer- Spectrum analyzer shown in figure 15 is av
of Digital1. Analyzer.
Digital AnalyzerFast
- The Fourier Transform
digital Analyzer as shown (FFT)
Fig. which is aHarmonic Analyzer
14 : Power System
both the
in Figure 12 is used to calculate
types of harmonic analyzer are- laboratory
values of powerand
4. portable
Fig.14 Power
Spectrum type.
Analyzer There
System
- Spectrum is availability
Harmonic
analyzer of
shownAnalyzer
in accu
nce algorithm which harmonic
factor, individual has been used
amplitude, in this.Figure
crest factor, Depending on
15 is available in both laboratory and portable
frequency
THD. These all are harmonic of wide
indicator. Data storage variety.
type. There is availability of accuracy and frequency of
onethofor th 4.of
Spectrum Analyzer- Spectrum analyzer
easurement,
Analyzer- isTheFig.
40
also digital12 50 Digital
theAnalyzer
functions as Analyzer
order harmonics
shown
Digital inFast
Analyzer. of wide
figure amplitude
12 is used to
variety. and shown in figure 15 is ava
Fourier Transform (FFT) which is a high-performance
both
in this.laboratory
Depending on and portable type. There is availability of accura
ulated. algorithm which has been used
the class of measurement, 40th or 50th order harmonics
frequency of wide variety.
of amplitude and phase are calculated.

- On an oscilloscope shown in figure 13, current and voltage

ch indicates how distortion has affected the signal. For the
on of harmonics, the waveform is observed and if the

Fig. 12 : Digital Analyzer
diverted from sinusoidal then it shows the presence of
2. Oscilloscope - On an oscilloscope shown in Figure
Fig. 15 : Spectrum Analyzer

Fig. 12 Fig.15 Spectrum Analyzer

andDigital Analyzer 5. Smart Energy Meters - Now a days energy meters are
13, current voltage is viewed which indicates
armonic components quantification
how distortion has affected is notactive
the signal. For the clear precisely done by
usually preferred as they are more efficient to measure
power including harmonics.

indication of harmonics,5.the waveformEnergy
Smart is observedMeters-Now a days energy meters are usually pr
Sampled data is gathered in thissinusoidal
and if the waveform is diverted from and then send Fig.15 toSpectrum
computer Analyzer
then it shows the presence of harmonics. Harmonic
they are more efficient to measure active power including harmonic
components quantification is not precisely done by this
.On an oscilloscope
method. Sampledshown
5. Smart
in infigure
data is gathered
Energy
13,
this and then
Meters-Now a days energy meters are usually prefe
sendcurrent and voltage
to computer for processing. they are more efficient to measure active power including harmonics.
h indicates how distortion has affected the signal. For the
n of harmonics, the waveform is observed and if the
diverted from sinusoidal then it shows the presence of
Fig. 16 : Smart Energy Meter
Fig.16 Smart Energy Meter
rmonic components quantification is not precisely done
The harmonic result by
can be measured by two methods:
The harmonic(a) result can be measured by two methods:
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)-According to IEEE
ampled data is gathered in this and then send to computer
519, The ratio of the root mean square of the harmonic
Fig. 13 : Oscilloscope a) Total Harmoniccontent,Distortion (THD)-According
considering harmonic componentsto upIEEE
to the519, The ratio
3. Power System Harmonic Analyzer - To measureof power 50th order and specifically excluding inter harmonics,
the root mean square of the harmonic content, considering
Fig. 13
system harmonics Oscilloscope
special type of instruments are used expressed as a percent of the fundamental. In other
harmonic
i.e. power and disturbance analyzer has a feature of components up computation
words, it is the to the 50th of order and specifically
the distortion due to excluding
analysis capability.Example is shown in Figure 14. harmonics which are present in a signal. To calculate
inter harmonics, expressed as a percent of the fundamental. In other
em Harmonic Analyzer- To measure
words, power ofsystem
it is the computation the INTERNATIONAL
WATER and ENERGY distortion due to harmonics
September which
2020 17

pecial type of instruments areare present

used in ai.e.
signal. To calculate harmonic distortion in current and
power and
voltage it is the most common technique. THD = 0, for an ideal
 of the root mean square of the harmonic content, considering
reduces the life span.
harmonic components up to the 50th order and specifically excluding
inter harmonics, expressed as a percent of the fundamental. In other

b) Errors in meters. (Shown in figure 17)

words, it is the computation of the distortion due to harmonics which
are present in a signal. To calculate harmonic distortion in current and
voltage it is the most common technique.
harmonic distortion in current andTHD = 0, for an ideal
voltage it is the most (c) Penalties on monthly utility bills due to lower system
system. c) Penalties on monthly
common technique. THD = 0, for an ideal system.
utility bills due to lower system power factor.
power factor.
(d) Excessive distortion in voltage results in the malfunction
d) Excessive distortion in voltage results in the malfunction of equipm
of equipment.
where,
where,
nV = rms voltage at the harmonic
Vn= rms voltage at the harmonic
1V = Line to neutral rms voltage
V1= Line to neutral rms voltage
(b) Total Demand Distortion (TDD) - According to IEEE
b) Total Demand Distortion (TDD)-According to IEEE 519, the ratio of
519, the ratio of the root mean square of the harmonic
the root mean square of the harmonic content, considering harmonic
content, considering harmonic components up to the
50th order oand specifically excluding inter harmonics,
w & e internatioNal (Energy section)

c
componen nts up to the 50tth order anda spec
cifically exxcluding inter
i
expressed as a percent of the maximum demand
h
harmonics s, expresssed as a peercent of the maxim mum demand curre ent.
current.
n other
In In words,
wother it
words,
i the itcom
is is the computation
mputation monicofcurre
n of harm harmonic
ent distorrtion
againstcurrent
e full distortion
the load demandagainst
of thethe
ele full load
ectrical sys demand
stem. This of the ue is
s techniqu
electrical
also used for system.
f the cal This
lculation technique
o harmon
of is also
ic distortion. used for the
Fig. 17 : Error in Energy Meters
calculation of harmonic distortion.
Fig.17
Equipment Error in
like computers Energy
and etc. requiresMeters
AC sources that
have less harmonic distortion factor of voltage. Harmonic
distortion of voltage levels that exceed standard limits
where, may lead to the malfunctioning of the equipment which
whe ere,
In = Harmonic current also results in serious consequences sometimes. The
Equipment like computers and etc. requires AC sources that have
most serious negative effects of harmonics on electronic

In= Harmoni Imaxic= curren
Maximum t demand load current devices are malfunctioning medical devices as it could put
Imaxx=5. IMPACTS OF HARMONICS
Maxim mum dem and load current a person’s life in danger. Therefore, many medical devices
are provided with linear power and are also protected by
When harmonic distortion enters into the system, the ability devices with proper power quality.
of a power system to work at optimal rates is compromised.
5.0 IMPACTS
It causesOF
O inefficiencies
HARMO ONICS in the running of the equipment due Harmonics in the power system affect the operation of
to increased power consumption needs. The increase consumer loads like television (TV), fluorescent and mercury
in the ower
When harmonic distortion n enters into the system, the t abilityy of a po
overall current needed results in higher installation and arc lightings, computers, and converter equipment and etc.
system to work at optima al rates is
s comprom mised. It causes inefficiencie es Harmonics
in cause changes in picture size and brightness
utility costs, heating, and reduced profitability.
the run nning of the t equipmment due to increa ased powe er consum mption needs.of the television. They also result in the overheating of
The inc 5.1 inImpact
crease the overa oncurrent
all LV System
needed results
r in higher installation and fluorescent and mercury lighting. There are many cases
utility costs,
c The effect
heating, of all the non-linear appliances which are used in where high harmonic distortion in power systems caused the
and reduced p
profitabilit
ty.

house hold
5.1 IMPACT ON
a huge impact on residential feeder and this malfunction of the data processing systems in the computers.
have TEM
N LV SYST
is an unresolved problem in today’s utility situation. Motors used for water pumping in household get affected by
The efffect of all the non-linear appliances wh hich are us sed in hou
the harmonics. When harmonic current passes through the
use hold have
h
In earlier days the appliances loads were basically resistive. windings, it gets overheated and thermal insulation losses
a huge e The
impactair on
oconditioning
residenntial feed
anderheating
and th his
areis the
an combinations
unresolve ed problem
of m occurs
in
due to heating which results in degradation of life of
today's s resistive and motor load. But due to the energy conservation motor. Also, the heat losses reduce system efficiency, cause
utility sittuation.
concepts, these appliances are being replaced by CFL/LED’s the overheating of other apparatus, and increase the cost of
In earrlier days the app pliances loads
l were basica ally resisttive. The air
and variable speed conditioning. These are based on power air conditioning and power bills of end-user.
conditiooning and d heating are the combinatio
electronics and are energyc efficient. ons of res
They alsosistive and
consumed motor lo
less oad.
power. Latest appliances like fans, dryers, washers, heat In a typical house, multiple appliances are used and each
pump furnaces, etc. have the adjustable speed property and type of these appliances generates harmonic currents and
appliances like TV, monitors, laptops, etc. use the switch inserts a comparatively large quantity of harmonics into the
mode power supply. power grid relative to their power demand. They also affect
the quality of power of feeders.
Hardware damage, overheating and communication error
are caused by higher frequency harmonic currents. Other When large quantities of such appliances operate in power
damages are also caused by this such as: distribution systems, a collective effect on the quality of the
feeder power has become a major concern for utilities.
(a) In the connected equipment, there is an increase in the
internal energy losses (heat) which causes failure of the 5.2 Impact on HV System
equipment and reduces the life span. Harmonics have a huge impact on the High Voltage system,
(b) Errors in meters. (Shown in Figure 17) including equipment which are used in the HV system such

18 WATER and ENERGY INTERNATIONAL September 2020

 e span of the equipment. Harmonics
observed due to also resultThis
harmonics. in happens
telephone
due to additional iron and

tral overloading, power losses

qualitywhich occur at harmonic frequencies. Losses due to harmonics lo
is poor, overloading of power
machines efficiency and affect the torque which is developed. The
h neutralas transformers,
to ground circuit voltage,
breakers and so and unbalancing
on. Unwanted trips whichof current
occur at harmonicin the Losses due to
frequencies.
in MCB’s and CB’s occur due toharmonic
the fluctuationscurrents
which are in the stator
harmonics lowerinduces
the machinescurrent
efficiencyflow in the rotor. S
and affect
caused by the harmonics. Equipment malfunctions occur the torque which is developed. The flow of harmonic
results and
as a result of excessive voltage distortion in an
the heating and
increased pulsating
currents in the statoror reduced
induces torque
current flow in the of the rotor. He
rotor.
internal energy loss in the other equipment which are So, this results in the heating and pulsating or reduced
the rotor reduces the efficiency
attached. This results in component failure and shortened life
as well as the life of the machinery w
torque of the rotor. Heating of the rotor reduces the
re caused bythethe
span of harmonics
equipment. Harmonics alsoare
resultfurther
in telephone explained
efficiency asbelow-
well as the life which
of the machinery
pulsating results in mechanical oscillation causewhereas
shaft fatigue and
interference, neutral overloading, power quality is poor, pulsating results in mechanical oscillation which cause
overloading of power transformer, of high
mechanical parts. Damaged
neutral to ground shaft fatiguerotor dueof to
and ageing harmonics
mechanical is shown in figure
parts. Damaged
ce Tripping
voltage, andof Circuit
unbalancing Breaker/MCB-The
of current in the transformer. value
rotor of the
due to harmonics peak
is shown in Figure 20.
Problems which are caused by the harmonics are further
nt may result
explained in an early tripping of the circuit breaker/MCB at a
below-
4. Switchgear and Relay: Currents which are produced by ha

w & e internatioNal (Energy section)

1. Inconvenience Tripping of Circuit Breaker/MCB - The
may also result inpeak
value of the cases
harmonicwhere maythe
increases
current circuit
resultheating
in breaker/MCB
an early and does not
losses in switchgear. This shortens the life
tripping of the circuit breaker/MCB at a low current. It
uld. (Refermay figure 18)
also result equipment
in cases where due to the heat generated by harmonics.
the circuit breaker/MCB When harmonic d
does not trip when it should. (Figure 18)
is present in the system digital relays that rely on sampled data b
Fig. 20 : Damaged Rotor Caused due to Harmonics
prone to error.
Fig.20 4. Switchgear and
Damaged Relay :Caused
Rotor Currents which
due are produced by
to Harmonics
harmonics increases heating and losses in switchgear.
5. Power This shortens
cable: Heating the life of as
of cables the equipment
shown due into the heat
figure 21 is cau
generated by harmonics. When harmonic distortion is
harmonic currents. These
present incurrents produce
the system digital I2Ron sampled
relays that rely losses which re
data becomes prone to error.
insulation failure. 5. Power cable : Heating of cables as shown in Figure 21
is caused by harmonic currents. These currents produce
I2R losses which results in insulation failure.
Fig. 18 : Malfunctioning of Circuit Breaker
2. Overheating of the Transformer - The main loss in the
Fig.18 Malfunctioning
transformer is the eddy current of
loss inCircuit
the windings. Breaker
This
occurs when the harmonic generating load is attached
nic current and withthe corresponding
the transformer. frequency
The square are directly
of the products of the proportional
harmonic current and the corresponding frequency are
e increased eddy current loss. This increased eddy current losses cause
directly proportional with the increased eddy current
loss. This increased
ating of the transformer and theeddy current material
insulation losses causeof the
the transformer is
of theThus,
egraded. Transformer
heating of the - The
transformer and main
the insulationloss in the transformer is the
material
ofresults in theis also
the transformer failure of the
degraded. Thus,transformer.
results in the Damage after
failure ofisthe transformer. Damage
19.after overheating
ss
atinginofthe windings.
transformer shown This occurs
in figure
transformer is shown in Figure 19.
when of the harmonic generating
Fig. 21 : Insulation Failure of Power Cable

d with the transformer. The square ofThere

theare products
many more equipmentof thewhich get damaged by
the harmonics. Also, there is reduction in the performance
of energy generation, transmission and usage systems.
Fig.21 Insulation
Premature Failure
ageing of insulation ofcomponents
on grid Powerdue Cable
to
harmonics is a big concern.

5.3 equipment
There are many more Impact on EHV System
which get damaged by the harmonic
There are impacts of harmonics on Extra High Voltage
there is reduction inSystem.
the performance of energy generation, transmiss
In EHV system, high harmonics causes higher
losses because of skin effect. Skin effect is more noticeable
usage systems. Premature ageing of insulation on grid components
Fig. 19 : Overheating of Transformer at high frequencies because it causes the additional losses
Fig.19 Overheatingharmonics of Transformer and heating of the conductor. Many equipment gets
3. Motor and Generators : Increase in the is a big
heating of concern.
damaged and their life expectancy is also reduced because
the rotating machines is observed due to harmonics.
or and Generators: Increase in the heating themachines
penetration of
is harmonics in the system.
This happens due to additional iron and of the losses
copper rotating
5.3 IMPACT ON EHV SYSTEM
ed due to harmonics. This happens due to additional iron and copper
WATER and ENERGY INTERNATIONAL September 2020 19
which occur at harmonic frequencies. Losses due to harmonics lower the
There are impacts of harmonics on Extra High Voltage System. In EHV
nes efficiency and affect the torque which is developed. The flow of
em.

effect (Refer figure 22) is the tendency of an AC to be distributed in a

ductor in such a way that the current density is greater near the conductor
Skin effect
rface and decreases (Figure
in the 22) is thewith
conductor tendency
greater AC to be 6. IMPACT OF HARMONICS ON POWER
of andistance.
distributed in a conductor in such a way that the current FACTOR & CURRENT
density is greater near the conductor’s surface and decreases
We know that the period for pure sine waveform is well
in the conductor with greater distance.
Also, Trrue PF is the t producdefined
ct of anddispl the power factor
acement pf andfor dis
any device ispff.also well
stortion
defined. So, when there is distortion in waveforms of
True PF P = Displacement voltage
t PF and * Dis current,
stortion the powerPF factor which is defined with
the pure sine waveforms at fundamental frequency are not
able to clearly describe the phase relationship between the
And under norma al conditio ons;
voltage and the current. We can say that the power factor of
distorted waveforms and sine waveforms are different.
kVA = kW/PF
Also, True PF is the product of displacement pf and
At 50H Hz frequen ncy, thedistortion
c
current pf.which is flo owing in the t system is the rms
w & e internatioNal (Energy section)

True PF = Displacement PF * Distortion PF

currentt.
And under normal conditions;
For a sy ystem witthout harm monickVAi.e. = kW/PFfor pure sine s case-
Fig. 22 : Skin Effect
At 50Hz frequency, the current which is flowing in the
Additional network Fig.22
losses Skin
occurPF Effect
due to the increase values
true = PFdisp =cos ij system is the rms current.
of current when harmonic penetrate in the network. Across
For a system without harmonic i.e. for pure sine case-
onal network thelosses occur duethetoharmonic
circuit impedances, the
When increase
voltage
t
there dropvalues
are increases of current
non-linea r loads when
because of the harmonic currents. PF true =inPFthe syste
disp =cos φ
em, harmo onics are produced and
onic penetrate in the network. Across the theycircuit
poollute impedances,
the system. the T harmonic
Thus, the rms r current increas ses.
The harmonic affects the corona on transmission line (shown When there are non-linear loads in the system, harmonics
ge drop increases because
in Figure 23). Theofemerging
the harmonic currents.
and extinction levels of corona are produced and they pollute the system. Thus, the rms
So, form mula for new n RMScurrent
c
current-
increases.
depend on peak-to-peak voltages and this voltage is affected
armonic affects
by the corona
harmonics. on transmission
Overvoltage can lead toline the (shown
formation in So, formula
of figure 23). for The new RMS current-
corona and this will eventually result in the degradation of
ging and extinction levels of corona depend on peak-to-peak voltages and
insulation and its breakdown.
oltage is affected by harmonics. Overvoltage can lead to theThe KVA demands
formation of increases with the increase in RMS
current and therefore, KW output does not change and
a and this will eventually result in the Thedegradation
KVVA demand of increas
ds insulation
ses with
remains and
same. th
heits increas se in RMS current and a thereffore,
down. KW outtput does not chang ge and
From rem
the formula-mains sam me.
VA = kW/PF
From th he formula a-
The decrease in the power factor is due to the presence of
harmonics in the system which is responsible for distortion
VA = kW/PFk power factor. If distortion power factor is poor then there will
be a serious impact on the equipment which are connected
The de ecrease in the powe toer
thefactor
supply. is s due
Also, to power
when t
the presen
factornce of higher
is low, harrmonics
current inn the
system which is responsi flows
bleinfor the disystem.
stortion This high
p current
power factresults
tor. Ifindist
thetortion
heat loss po
ower
and heating of the system which eventually degrades the
factor is poor the en thereinsulation
w be a
will andseerious
also reduces imp pact on of
the life th
he equipment which
equipment. h are
Fig. 23 : Corona Effect inconnec
Transmission
ted Line
to the e supply.Let’s A assume
Also, when that
n powerthe voltagefa
actoris 230V
is low,andhigher
load is 9KW.
current fllows
Fig.23 Corona Effect
Harmonic causes failures of components
in Transmission
in line filters used
Line
Let’s assume that the voltage is 230V and load is 9KW.
Using, P = VIcos φ
in the system.
s This
T high current
c reesults in the t heat loss and heating h off the
with power line carrier systems in EHV network and the We Using, P = VIcos ij
can find current values for two cases,
monic causesoperating
failures characteristics
of components system
of protective which
in relay
line gets evventually
distorted
filters used Wedegrades
dwith
can find power thevaluesinsula ation and also reduces the liffe of
1- when there line
current for two cases,
Case is no Harmonics i.e. zero distortion
due to harmonics since it changes the
equipm shape
ment. of voltage andCase 1- when there is no Harmonics i.e. zero distortion
er systems in EHVwaveforms.
current networkWhen andharmonic
the operating
distortion is characteristics
present in Table 2ofgives the values of current when there is no
protective
Table 2 gives the values of current when there is no penetration of
the system digital relays that rely on sampled data becomes penetration
harmonics of harmonics in the system.
in the system.
y gets distorted
pronedue to harmonics
to error. It is because the since it changes
protective functions the of theshape Tableof voltage
Table22:When Whenload and
load isissame
sameandandthere
thereisisno
noharmonics
harmonics
relays are usually developed on the basis of fundamental
ent waveforms. When harmonic distortion is present in the system digital
voltages and currents, and these harmonics waveforms are
ys that rely oneithersampled
filtered out and
data sometimes
becomes ignoredprone
and not to taken into It is because the
error.
consideration in relay protection settings. This results in the
ective functions of the
measurement relays
errors are system.
in the power usually developed on the basis of
amental voltages and currents, and these harmonics waveforms are either
Case 2- When harmonics are present
red 20
out and and
WATER sometimes ignored andSeptember
ENERGY INTERNATIONAL not taken
2020 into consideration in relay
Table 3 gives the values of current when there is penetration of harmonics in
ection settings. This results in the measurement errors the
in system.
the power system.
 Case 2- When harmonics are present

Case 2- When harmonics are present Table

Table 5 : Limits
5 Limits of current
of current distortion
distortion and TDD and TDD for
for systems systems
rated 120V
Table 3 gives the values of current when there is penetration of harmonics in
Table 3 gives the values of current when there is penetration
the system.
rated 120V to 69KV
to 69KV (IEEE
(IEEE Std Std 519 –2014)
519 –2014)

of harmonics in the
Table 3 When load system.
is same but harmonics are also present

Table 3 : When load is same but harmonics

From the above tables, we can observe that there is increase in the current
values after harmonics enter in the system. For a fixed amount of power, if
are also present
the PF is less than the given PF due to harmonics, additional current flows to
compensate for the current and voltage. This additional current flow causes IIscsc==Maximum
Maximum short circuit current at point of common
short circuit current at point of common coupling.
From the above tables, we can observe that there is increase
more power losses in the conductors which are located in the walls of the coupling.

w & e internatioNal (Energy section)

in the current values after harmonics enter in the system. For
house. IL= Maximum demand load current at point of common coupling
a fixed amount of power, if the PF is less than the given PF Iunder
L = Maximum demand load current at point of common
normal load operating condition.
due to harmonics, additional current flows to compensate for coupling under normal load operating condition.
Limits which are given in Table 5, are referred for the systems rated 120V
the current and voltage. This additional current flow causes Limits which are given in Table 5, are referred for the
to 69KV at PCC. To decrease the effect of harmonics on the system, total
more power losses in the conductors which are located in systems rated 120V to 69KV at PCC. To decrease the effect
demand distortion should be less.. Limiting values in table 5 are for the
the walls of the house. of harmonics onwhich
harmonic currents the system,
are havingtotal demand indistortion
frequencies multiple ofshould
power
be less. Limiting values in Table 5 are for the harmonic
7. HARMONIC LIMIT RECOMMENDED frequency.
currents which are having frequencies in multiple of power
7.0 HARMONIC LIMIT RECOMMENDED VALUES
VALUES frequency.
It isItaisjoint
a joint responsibility
responsibility of the operators
of the system system operators
or owners or
andowners
the end Table 6 Limits of current distortion and TDD for systems rated
Table 6 : Limits of current distortion and TDD for systems
and the end users to manage harmonics in the power system.
users to manage harmonics in the power system. The limits of harmonics
above 69KV”ௗ161KV
rated above 69KV≤ 161KV (IEEE Std 519
(IEEE Std–2014)
519 –2014)
The limits of harmonics are recommended for both voltage
are recommended for both voltage and current. To keep the actual voltage
and current. To keep the actual voltage distortion below the
distortion below the objectionable
objectionable level both level
the both the operators
operators and the
and the endendusers
users
should
should work work cooperatively
cooperatively and voltage
and generally generally voltage
distortion up todistortion
some level
up to some
is acceptable .For level is acceptable.
different voltage levelsFor different
there voltage
are different limitslevels
of odd
there are different limits of odd and even harmonics.
and even harmonics.
7.1 Voltage Distortion Limits
7.1 Voltage Distortion Limits
Recommended voltage distortion limits are described in
Table 3.
Recommended voltage distortion limits are described in Table 3.
I = Maximum short circuit current at point of common
sc= Maximum short circuit current at point of common coupling.
Isc
Table 4 : Limits for Voltage Distortion coupling.
Table 4 Limits for Voltage Distortion (IEEE Std 519 –2014)
(IEEE Std 519 –2014) IL= Maximum demand load current at point of common coupling
IL = Maximum demand load current at point of common
under normal load operating condition.
coupling under normal load operating condition.
Limits which are given in Table 6 are referred for the systems rated
Limits which are given in Table 6 are referred for the
69KV”ௗ161KV at PCC. To decrease the effect of harmonics on the system,
systems rated 69KV≤ 161KV at PCC. To decrease the effect
of harmonics
total on theshould
demand distortion system, totalLimiting
be less. demand distortion
values in table 6should
are for

be less. Limiting values in Table 6 are for the harmonic

the harmonic currents which are having frequencies in multiple of power

currents which are having frequencies in multiple of power

frequency.
From Table 4, we can see that limits of total harmonic frequency.
From table 4, we can see that limits of total harmonic distortion
distortion decreases as Bus voltage increases. According to
decreases as Bus voltagehigh
increases. According Table7 7Limits
Table : Limits of current
of current distortion
distortion and for
and TDD TDD for systems
systems rated
IEEE Standard-519, voltage system toshould
IEEE Standard-519,
not exceed
rated above 161
above 161 (IEEE Std 519 –2014) (IEEE Std 519 –2014)
2.5%
high of total
voltage harmonic
system should notdistortion andofindividual
exceed 2.5% harmonic
total harmonic distortion
distortion
and individualcan be uptodistortion
harmonic 1.5% only. Higher
can be the total
upto 1.5% only.harmonic
Higher the
distortion higher the system losses.
total harmonic distortion higher the system losses.

7.2 Current Distortion Limits

7.2 Current Distortion Limits
Recommended current distortion limits for differfent
voltage levels
Recommended are distortion
current describedlimits
in Table 5, Table
for differfent 6, Table
voltage 7
levels are
respectively.
described in Table 5, Table 6, Table 7 respectively.

Isc= Maximum short circuit current at point of common coupling.

WATER and ENERGY INTERNATIONAL September 2020 21
IL= Maximum demand load current at point of common coupling
under normal load operating condition.
 Isc= Maximum short circuit current at point of common coupling.
Isc = Maximum short circuit current at point of common Regulatory Commission (CERC) at central level and the
coupling.
IL= Maximum demand load current at point of common coupling State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERC) at state
ILunder
= Maximum
normal load demand
operating load current at point of common level as per the provisions of the Electricity Act, 2003.State
condition.
coupling under normal load operating condition. Regulatory Commissions has given specification related to
Limits which are given in Table 7 are applicable for the systems rated regulations in the respective states of their jurisdiction and
Limits which are given in Table 7 are applicable for the these states are Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Madhya
aboveௗ161KV
systems at PCC.
rated To decrease at
above 161KV thePCC.
effect Toof harmonics
decreaseonthe the effect
system,
Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Delhi and Karnataka.
oftotal
harmonics on the system,
demand distortion should betotal
less.demand
From thedistortion
table it canshould
also be
beobserved
less. From
that, astheIsctable it can also
/ILis increasing, valuebeof observed
TDD is also that, as Isc/ In Tamil Nadu, after implementation of these regulations,
increasing.
ILis increasing, value of TDD is also increasing. consumer is accountable to pay compensation at 15% of
the respective tariff in case when they exceed harmonics
Table 8 : Supply Voltage Harmonic Limits injection limits which are specified by CEA. But this
Table 8 SUPPLY VOLTAGE (IS 17036:
HARMONIC 2018)LIMITS (IS 17036: 2018) compensation is not imposed with respect to the intensity
of harmonics which are injected into the grid. Penalty of
w & e internatioNal (Energy section)

around 15% of respective tariff is applied irrespective of the

amount of harmonics which are injected by consumer in the
distribution grid. In Gujarat and Maharashtra, consumers
are held responsible for taking corrective measures related
Table 8 and Table 9 are based on Indian standards. In above to harmonic injection but no such penalty is specified so
tables limits are given which are specified according to far in regulations. In Andhra Pradesh, consumer should
HV with
Table respect
tableto9odd
8 Standard
and areharmonics
based and even
on Indian harmonics.
Indian for LV, MV and standards.
HV withInrespect
above tables limits pay compensation in case when there is default in voltage
to odd
harmonics andare
are given which even according to Indian Standard for LV, MV and regulation. Only Tamil Nadu has started imposing penalties
harmonics.
specified
Table and follow regulation properly. All the states should follow
Table99: Values
Values of of Individual
IndividualHarmonic
HarmonicVoltages
Voltagesofofthe
theSupply
Supply
Voltage in
Voltage in Percent
Percent of of the
the Fundamental
Fundamental Voltage
Voltage (IS
(IS 17036:
17036: 2018)
2018) and implement the regulations strictly like Tamil Nadu has
done.

9. REDUCTION/CONTROL OF
HARMONICS
Unfortunately, non-linear loads will always produce
harmonics when connected to an AC voltage supply. This
means it is impossible to eliminate them completely, but
they can be prevented from propagating throughout an
installation by using harmonic filters. There are both passive
8. HARMONICS
9.0 REGULATIONS
HARMONICS REGULATIONS IN INDIA IN and active filters.
INDIA
We know that the electrical and electronics equipment which are used in 1. PASSIVE FILTERING : A passive filter basically
We know
household that thehigher
generates electrical
levels and electronics
of harmonics equipment
and these which
are needed to be has an inductor and a capacitor tuned for a specific
are usedforinmeasuring
accounted household generates
active higher
power. When we levels
include of harmonics
harmonics in the frequency. When connected in parallel with a non-
and energy
active these are neededit to
calculation, be accounted
improves the billing for measuring
accuracy and alsoactive
the grid
linear load, a passive filter draws in harmonic currents
power. When we isinclude of that specific frequency and prevents them from
management as there increaseharmonics in the
in the number active energy
of non-linear loads in
calculation, it improves the billing accuracy and also the affecting other pieces of equipment. Passive filters are
household appliances.
grid management as there is increase in the number of non- suitable for high-power applications, but they have
According to IEEE-519, the Total Harmonic distortion (THD) limit ranges
linear loads in household appliances. one drawback: an individual filter is required for each
from 1.5% to 8.0% with respect to change in voltage and Total Demand harmonic frequency.
According to IEEE-519, the Total Harmonic distortion
Distortion (TDD) ranges from 5.0 to 20.0 with respect to change in load 2. ACTIVE FILTERING : Unlike a passive filter, an
(THD) limit ranges from 1.5% to 8.0% with respect to
current (Indian Standard also follows the same limit range for THD and active filter monitors the harmonic currents and injects
change in voltage and Total Demand Distortion (TDD)
TDD). The consumers who have installed energy meter in their houses can a current of equal but opposite magnitude to cancel
ranges from 5.0 to 20.0 with respect to change in load current
have a record of readings of THD and TDD. If any consumer exceeds these them out.
(Indian Standard also follows the same limit range for THD
andorTDD).
THD The
TDD limit thenconsumers
they have towho have
pay the installed energy meter
penalty. Instead of using an inductor and capacitor tuned for a
in their houses specific frequency, an active filter uses power electronics
Some standards arecan have for
specified a record of readings
the consumers of to
in order THD
help and
them
TDD. the
maintain If any consumer
standards related exceeds these grid.
to the electricity THDAllorthese
TDD limit
regulations and can operate over a wide range of frequencies.
then they have to pay the penalty. However, this technology is more sensitive than a
passive filter and is limited in terms of the electric
Some standards are specified for the consumers in order to
power than can be handled.
help them maintain the standards related to the electricity
grid. All these regulations are specified by the Central 3. HYBRID FILTERS : As implied by its name, a hybrid
Electricity Authority (CEA) and the Central Electricity filter combines both technologies to offer the benefits
of active and passive filtering in a single device.

22 WATER and ENERGY INTERNATIONAL September 2020

With varying degrees of efficiency and effectiveness there
are several solutions for the reduction of harmonics:
(i) The simplest approach for this is using separate neutral
conductors. For each phase conductor in the three-
phase branch circuit, separate neutral conductor should
be used instead of the installation of multi-wire branch
circuit sharing a neutral conductor. Thus, this branch
circuit ability and capacity increases of handling
harmonic loads. By this, only harmonic current on the
branch circuit neutral is eliminated.
(ii) To protect the building wiring, over sizing of the neutral
wire can work. As the power wiring, neutral wiring
should be specified of the same capacity. A neutral wire
capacity can be exceeded by 200% than a phase wire
capacity the case where there is a need for the support
a load of many computers. In the office cubicles, there
is a need for special attention.
(iii) By using K rated transformer in the power distribution
components, the harmonics cannot be reduced but
surely this transformer can handle the heat which is
generated by the harmonic current. When used in the
K -factor value this transformer is highly efficient. The
range of K factor is between 1-50 and the standard
value for a transformer is 1.
10. CONCLUSION
• Harmonics are created by Non-linear loads - As
modern power electronic devices evolve, the adverse
effects of harmonics are seen such as tripping of the
circuit breaker, heating of transformer, damage of the
appliances, losses in transmission and distribution
lines, etc.
• There are two types of harmonics odd and even.
Harmonics are further categorized as positive, negative,
and zero sequences.
• Mitigation Techniques need to be considered in our
current power system scenario and needs to be checked
and implemented. It should be also ensured that the
source side of electrical distribution should not be
polluted by harmonic loads & needs an improvement
of waveform & power factor by Harmonic mitigation
techniques.
• Two methods are there for the calculation Total
Harmonic Distortion (THD) and Total Demand
Distortion (TDD). Different analyzers oscilloscopes
& Smart Meters are used for the measurement of the
harmonics.
• There are different methods used for the reduction of
harmonics for example over sizing the neutral wire and
using K rated transformer.
• Harmonics is the non-useful component of load
current. It results in distortion of line voltage and so affect
other users on the same bus. It results in overloading of
equipment or else we have to oversize the components this
may result in following:
1. Equipment Failure and mal-operation.
2. Overheating/failure (transformers, motors, cables/
neutral)
3. Nuisance Tripping / operation (fuse, breakers, PC-ups)
w & e internatioNal (Energy section)
4. Insulation failures.
5. PF Capacitor resonance
• Economic Considerations
1. Harmonics results in extra expenditure in terms of
additional energy cost.
2. Extra investment due to over-sizing of transformers,
generators, neutrals, cables etc.
3. Losses/ Inefficiencies/ Penalties
Final Summary
Sequence Rotation Harmonic Effect
+ Forward Excessive heating effect
- Reverse Motor Torque Problems
0 None Adds Voltages and currents in
Neutral Wire causing heating
REFERENCES
1. IEEE Std 519 – 2014, IEEE Recommended Practice
and Requirements for Harmonic Control in Electric
Power Systems, New York, NY: IEEE
2. Central Electricity Authority (Technical Standards for
Connectivity to the Grid) Amendment Regulations,
2013
3. Central Electricity Authority “ Power Quality At A
Large Induction Furnace Industry – Issues On Current
Harmonics And Regulations“
4. IS 17036 - Distribution System Supply Voltage
Quality
5. “Harmonics – Causes, Effects and Minimization” –
Ramon Pinyol
6. Forum of Regulators, India – Power Quality Regulations
in India
WATER and ENERGY INTERNATIONAL September 2020 23