HARMONICS

WHAT IS HARMONICS IN POWER SYSTEM

current and voltage are distorted and deviate from
sinusoidal waveforms
harmonic currents are caused by non-linear loads
connected to the distribution system
◦ non-linear load: when the current drawn does not have the
same waveform as the supply voltage
Single phase current waveform (ideal – distorted)

Three phase current waveform (ideal – distorted)

WHAT IS HARMONICS IN POWER SYSTEM
harmonics could also be cause by linear loads
(incandescent lights, motors, heaters, etc.)
the consumer pays for unused energy due to distortion
voltage
SOURCES OF HARMONICS IN A POWER SYSTEM
• Switch-mode power supplies
• DC converters
• AC or DC motor drives
• Static VAR compensators
• Rectifier
 WHAT IS HARMONICS IN POWER SYSTEM
Harmonics are any frequency that exists in the system
except the fundamental frequency

Interharmonics: If the
harmonics is a non-
integer multiple of the
fundamental frequency
Subharmonics: If the
harmonics has a
frequency lower than
the fundamental
EFFECTS OF HARMONICS
if not properly designed or rated, electrical equipment
will often malfunction when harmonics are present in an
electrical system
harmonics increases the losses in the system therefore
efficiency drops
the electrical equipment subjected to harmonics will have
lower life