Power quality concerns/solutions on a 2500 HP pipeline booster station adjustable frequency drive

This paper details power quality issues that arose on a utility power system related to a 2500 HP medium voltage, adjustable frequency drive (AFD) on a refined petroleum products pipeline booster station. Most recently manufactured medium voltage drives employ the use of higher pulse number rectifiers to achieve harmonic reduction and this AFD was no exception. An overview of the computer based modeling analysis that was undertaken to help solve the power quality concerns is presented. Harmonic measurements taken before and after additional mitigation was implemented are provided. The contributing factors in why these issues arose are identified. Criteria to help recognize when harmonic modeling should be carried out at the design stage are established.