Benefits of an Automated On-Line Harmonic Measurement System

Any industrial plant that has a considerable amount of rectification may experience harmonic-related problems (e.g., solid-state control circuit malfunctioning, communication noise, etc.). The application of power-factor correction capacitor banks to such a system will generally increase the likelihood of such problems occurring. To properly identify the cause of such problems and, in some cases, recommend solutions, an on-line analysis of the system may be necessary. This usually involves a harmonic analysis of the current or voltage waveforms observed in the electrical system. A description of an automated on-line harmonic measurement system used by the authors will be presented along with the advantages of using such a system. In addition, two specific examples showing the application of an automated on-line harmonic measurement system will also be presented.