Power electronic devices that have rapid and frequent load variations have become abundant today due to their many process control related and energy saving benefits. However, they also bring a few major drawbacks to electrical distribution systems such as harmonics (measured as Total Harmonic Distortion, or THD) which may disrupt normal operation of other devices and increase operating costs.

Symptoms of problematic harmonic levels include overheating of transformers, motors and cables, thermal tripping of protective devices, logic faults of digital devices and drives. Harmonics can cause vibrations and noise in electrical machines (motors, transformers, reactors). The life span of many devices can be reduced by elevated operating temperature.

An active harmonic filter (AHF) provides an effective means to mitigate harmonics and improve equipment operating life and system capacity. It can be part of a power factor correction and harmonic filtering system.

Contact Schneider Electric for help with reducing your Harmonics.

Learn how power quality improvement solutions from Schneider Electric can help improve your operations, minimize costs, and maximize reliability.