Analysis of line notching caused by static converters

Modern technology has made possible the rectification of AC power to DC power using static rectifier as well as static inverter for AC drives. Although more efficient and versatile than past methods these newer technologies may have detrimental effects on the quality of AC power, especially when they comprise a significant portion of power systems. Rectification generates harmonics and causes line notching that can cause problems such as misfiring of the static power switches, insulation failure due to over heating caused by harmonics, communication interference, etc. The common addition of power factor compensating devices and passive filters to control these adverse effects generally increases the likelihood of parallel resonance occurring. The aim of this paper is to present the causes and effects of line notching, formulation (review) and modelling the line notching phenomenon, a laboratory experiment verifying the model and recommendations as how these adverse effects can be minimised.