Power Quality & Harmonic Measurements

Power quality refers to the ability of electrical equipment to consume the energy that is supplied to it. The efficiency of electrical equipment is impacted by several different power quality issues, including electrical harmonics, poor power factor, voltage instability, and imbalance. These power quality issues can result in a number of consequences, including increased energy usage and costs, higher maintenance costs, and equipment instability, and failure.

Why is power quality maintenance important?

Power quality is an important component of any business or facility for a number of reasons, including:

  • Good power quality saves money and energy
  • Improve the overall performance of equipment
  • Avoid catastrophic failures
  • Reduce power disturbances

The presence of harmonics in electrical systems is an indication that the current and voltage are distorted and deviate from sinusoidal waveforms. Harmonic currents are the result of non-linear loads that are connected to the distribution system.

How can harmonics affect power systems?

  • An increased need for power consumption during equipment operation leading to greater inefficiencies
  • Increased installation and utility costs
  • Overheating of components
  • Equipment malfunction
  • Inaccurate measurements on sensors
  • Interference with telecommunication
  • Tripping of circuit breakers
  • Overall decreased profitability

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