The Importance of Harmonic Mitigation for Your Business

Modern business owners might not realise it, but a hidden culprit often lurks, siphoning profits, and causing operational disruptions – harmonic distortion. While it may not be a household term, the cost of ignoring this electrical phenomenon is far from insignificant. Consider this: harmonic distortion costs businesses billions annually in increased energy consumption, equipment failures, and downtime. Yet, there is a solution that savvy enterprises are harnessing to mitigate these issues and supercharge their operations – Harmonic Filtration.

What is Harmonic Distortion?

When we think of AC voltages and currents, we normally visualise perfect sine waves with a frequency of 50 Hz. Unfortunately, given the rapid increase in IT and process control equipment, this is now rarely the case.

Harmonics are frequencies that are superimposed upon the 50 Hz signal that are an integer multiple of 50 Hz; i.e. the 3rd harmonic is 150 Hz, the 5th harmonic is 250 Hz and so on.

These harmonic currents are produced by the load and flow back to the supply, passing through the impedance of the cables, transformer etc. as they do so. As these harmonic currents flow through the system, they produce harmonic voltage drops which in turn distort the supply voltage.

Negative impacts of Harmonic Distortion

Harmonics can cause a multitude of different issues, the most common of which are detailed below:

• Increased kWh consumption
• Damage to power factor correction due to harmonic absorption of capacitors or even harmonic magnification due to harmonic resonance
• Nuisance tripping of circuit breakers
• Overheating of ac motors and even mechanical damage due to pulsating torques on motor shafts
• Interference induced into comms / IT cables if not correctly segregated from power cables carrying distorted current, resulting in noise on telephony systems and possible data issues
• Premature failure of light fittings
• Premature failure of dc power supplies

How can you mitigate Harmonic Distortion?

Harmonic Distortion can be mitigated by installing an ‘Harmonic Filter’ to target any frequencies outside of 50Hz and remove them from the electrical supply. Installed in parallel to the incoming electrical supply, the harmonic filter absorbs any harmful frequencies and ensures the supply frequency remains optimised.

How do you know if your Harmonic Distortion levels are costing you money?

Harmonic surveys and analysis are powerful tools that help businesses uncover and address harmonic distortions within their electrical systems. Harmonic distortions, characterised by non-sinusoidal waveforms, can wreak havoc by destabilising voltage, overheating equipment, and causing a litany of issues. Harmonic surveys involve comprehensive analysis of the incoming electrical supply to identify these distortions and pinpoint their sources, impacts and offer a suitable solution.

How to Conduct a Harmonic Survey and Analysis

To unlock the benefits of harmonic surveys and analysis, businesses should follow these steps:

• Select a Qualified Surveyor

  Choosing an experienced surveyor is crucial. They will perform measurements, collect data, and provide expert analysis.

• Data Collection

  The surveyor will employ specialised equipment to measure voltage and current waveforms, harmonics, and other relevant data.

• Data Analysis

  Skilled analysis of the collected data unveils the causes and effects of harmonic distortions.

• Recommendations

  Based on the findings, the surveyor will offer recommendations to mitigate issues and optimise the electrical system’s performance.

Benefits of Harmonic Mitigation

The advantages of investing in harmonic mitigation are manifold:

• Energy Cost Reduction

  By identifying inefficiencies, businesses can optimise energy consumption, leading to significant cost savings.

• Improved Power Quality

  Enhanced power quality reduces equipment wear and tear, minimising the risk of expensive breakdowns.

• Extended Equipment Lifespan

  Reducing the strain caused by harmonic distortions can prolong the life of electrical equipment, deferring costly replacements.

  For example, a manufacturing facility saved over 15% on its energy bills and avoided frequent equipment breakdowns by conducting a comprehensive harmonic survey and implementing the recommendations.

Conclusion

Business operations are constantly changing, but overlooking the impact of harmonic distortions on electrical systems can be costly and detrimental. Harmonic Mitigation offers a beacon of hope, allowing businesses to optimise energy usage, and enhance power quality.

Don’t let harmonic distortions hold your business back. Contact us today to learn more about harmonic surveys and analysis and take the first step towards improving your operational efficiency.

We’re offering a free consultation to help you unlock the full potential of your electrical system. Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your business’s energy outlook and secure a brighter, more cost-effective future.