Distributed Rectifier Loads in Electric Power Systems

The level of rectifier and fluorescent loads in electric power systems is often significant in localized areas. Typically, the nonlinear loads are distributed over many distribution and subtransmission busses. In this paper, the harmonic signal levels resulting from distributed rectifier loads are examined using a recently reported harmonic power flow study algorithm. Because the algorithm does not rely on superposition or sinusoidal bus voltage assumptions, it may be applied in cases of high harmonic content such as near- resonant conditions. A case history is presented and examination of alternative methods of harmonic attenuation is presented. Also, for six pulse, line commutated rectifiers, the effect of dc circuit load variation and dc circuit inductance on harmonic signal levels is examined.