Distribution feeder modification to service both sensitive loads and large drives

An intermittent load consisting of large adjustable speed drives had to be added to an existing 24 kV feeder for office buildings equipped with computers of various types. A standard option of constructing a new substation or a new transmission feeder was not possible due to environmental concerns. Consequently, the existing feeder had to be modified through innovative application of a specially designed harmonic filter and a distribution series capacitor so that harmonic problems, voltage flicker problems, and commutation notch problems could be avoided. The technical aspects of the problems and solutions are presented. In addition, the cooperation required between the utility and the customer is discussed