An experimental study of the damaging effects of harmonics in power networks on the capacitor dielectrics

The damage in power capacitor dielectrics by harmonics in power networks is investigated. Five typical distorted waves generated by an HV (high-voltage) harmonic testing installation were recorded in tests of four model types of capacitors. Results show that all waves containing harmonics of different order have damaging effects on the capacitor dielectric. The third harmonic which makes the voltage shape sharp at its top has the most serious effect on the partial discharge and voltage-time characteristics of capacitor dielectrics.<>