Experimental Measurements and Computer Simulations of FL and CFL for Harmonic Studies

Due to poor efficiencies of Incandescent Lamps (ILs), Fluorescent Lamps (FLs) and Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) are increasingly used in residential and commercial applications. This proliferation of FLs and CFLs increases the harmonics level in distribution systems that could affect power systems and end users. In order to quantify the harmonics produced by FLs and CFLs precisely, accurate modelling of these loads are required. Matlab Simulink is used to model and simulate the full models of FLs and CFLs to give close results to the experimental measurements. Moreover, a Constant Load Power (CLP) model is also modelled and its results are compared with the full models of FLs and CFLs. This CLP model is much faster to simulate and easier to model than the full model. Such models help engineers and researchers to evaluate the harmonics exist within households and commercial buildings.