Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Fundamentals of Harmonics in Electrical Systems

• Understand what harmonics are and how they are generated in electrical systems.
• Learn about harmonic orders (fundamental, odd, even, interharmonics, and subharmonics).
• Differentiate between voltage harmonics and current harmonics.
• Recognize the impact of non-linear loads on harmonic generation.

2. Sources of Harmonics in Electrical Equipment

• Identify common harmonic-producing equipment, including:
• Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
• Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)
• LED lighting and electronic ballasts
• Rectifiers, inverters, and switching power supplies
• Arc furnaces, welding equipment, and industrial machinery
• Understand why non-linear loads distort sinusoidal waveforms.

3. Effects of Harmonics on Electrical Equipment

• Analyze the impact of harmonics on:
• Transformers (overheating, derating, increased losses).
• Motors and generators (vibration, torque pulsations, insulation stress).
• Capacitors (resonance, overheating, reduced lifespan).
• Power cables (neutral overheating, increased I²R losses).
• Protective relays and metering devices (false tripping, inaccurate measurements).

4. Harmonic Measurement and Analysis

• Learn how to measure harmonics using:
• Power quality analyzers
• Digital oscilloscopes
• Spectrum analyzers
• Clamp meters with harmonic analysis functions
• Understand Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) calculations.
• Interpret IEEE 519 and IEC 61000-3-2 power quality standards.

5. Harmonic Mitigation Techniques

• Implement passive and active harmonic filters.
• Apply phase shifting and isolation transformers.
• Optimize power factor correction capacitors to prevent harmonic resonance.
• Use multi-pulse rectifier circuits and tuned harmonic traps.
• Improve system design through load balancing and optimal transformer sizing.

6. Compliance with Power Quality Standards

• Ensure adherence to IEEE 519 harmonic limits for industrial and commercial loads.
• Understand IEC and NEC standards on harmonic mitigation.
• Implement utility and regulatory compliance requirements.

7. Case Studies and Practical Applications

• Analyze real-world harmonic issues and their solutions.
• Conduct hands-on harmonic measurements and THD calculations.
• Develop a harmonic mitigation plan for a facility.

Target Audience

• Electrical engineers and power system designers
• Industrial and commercial facility managers
• Maintenance and reliability engineers
• Power quality and energy management professionals
• Utility engineers and compliance officers