Harmonic analysis of industrial power systems

When large harmonic producing loads are added to an industrial plant power system it is good engineering practice to analyze their impact on the power system by performing harmonic modeling analysis of the system at the design stage. Such a study can identify any potentially harmful resonances or other harmonic levels that are predicted to be in excess of IEEE 519 recommended limits and suggest corrective measures (if necessary). This paper discusses the impact of the harmonic limits of IEEE Standard 519-1992 on the industrial power consumer and addresses the differences between the 1992 and 1981 versions of the Standard. Harmonics produced by variable frequency drives are discussed. The data required to conduct a harmonic study, the types of analyses that can be performed, and some of the mitigating measures that can be taken to alleviate a potential harmonic problem are detailed. A case study is presented based on a typical paper mill where a large variable frequency drive was added to the power system.