Real Coded Genetic Algorithm Compared to the Classical Method of Fast Fourier Transform in Harmonics Analysis

Harmonics in voltages and currents comes from the daily equipments used in homes, industrial facility and offices. Any devices with non-linear characteristics may be injecting back harmful harmonic currents and voltages into the electrical system. Power quality has become a factor in our life and harmonics may affect the whole electrical environment and it can further degrade the power quality. In order to design harmonic filters to maintain power quality, the evaluation of harmonic distortion should provide an accurate measure of power system harmonics and exact characteristics of the voltage and current waveforms. This paper presents an enhanced measurement scheme for identification and tracking of harmonics in power system. The proposed technique is not limited to stationary waveforms, but can also estimate harmonics in waveforms with time-varying amplitudes. The paper compares the results obtained from fast Fourier transform with results obtained by real coded genetic algorithm (RCGA), which is a technique for optimization inspired by genetics and natural evolution. The algorithm was tested using simulated data. The effects of sampling rate studied. Results are reported and discussed