Harmonics in power distribution systems, causes, effects, and solutions

Power harmonics is not a new phenomenon to engineering facilities and industrial plants. The unwelcome distortions of sinusoidal waveforms have been presented since the inception of AC networks. Voltage and current distortion could cause serious damage to the power distribution equipment, so, evaluating power harmonics and its effect on power systems became more important with the increasing use of nonlinear loads.;The purpose of this thesis is to analyze the power system's main concerns, three-phase transformer and medium-voltage AC Electric Motor, using SKM power tool software1. Harmonics studies using this software determine the effects of harmonic current-producing devices on voltage and current distortion levels in the electrical system, as well as potential resonance issues associated with the application of shunt capacitor banks. After producing this simulation, evaluation of the solution needs studying in order to determine the recommended best practice.;This research paper presents the source of the power harmonics in power distribution, the effect on sensitive power system equipment (i.e., three-phase 480 V transformers and AC Electric Motors), and the solution to compensate for and reduce harmonics.;This study's analysis is based on the recommendations in IEEE Standard 519-1992, Recommended Practices and Requirements for Harmonic Control in Electric Power Systems; and IEEE Standard 141, IEEE Recommended Practice for Electric Power Distribution for Industrial Plants [1]. Obtaining this analysis would be valuable in evaluating the solution of harmonics distortion, and in the delivery of clean power to the various electrical equipment in the power distribution network.