EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) testing for an Active Harmonic Filter AHF is critical and non-negotiable. An AHF(APF) is a power electronics device (like a high-frequency inverter) that injects canceling currents into a noisy electrical system. If poorly designed, it can become a significant source of electromagnetic interference (EMI) itself, disrupting other equipment. Conversely, it mu...
The Problem: Variable Speed Drives Generate Harmonics What is a Variable Speed Drive (VSD/VFD)?A Variable Speed Drive (VSD), also commonly called a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) or Adjustable Speed Drive (ASD), is an electronic device that controls the speed and torque of an AC electric motor by varying the motor's input frequency and voltage. How Do They Cause Harmonics?The internal design of a ...
Introduction As global energy demand continues to rise, distributed photovoltaic (PV) generation has emerged as a key solution for achieving sustainable and decentralized power. In Latin America, Colombia has been steadily expanding its renewable energy capacity, with the city of Medellín—a vibrant urban hub surrounded by the Andes Mountains—leading the way in solar adoption. Th...
IN any system containing nonlinear loads that use phase-angle control or abrupt switching, particularly those that draw a non-sinusoidal current. The specific range of "2nd to 51st" is a classic signature of certain technologies.Here are the most common places where you would find such a wide harmonic spectrum: 1. The Classic Example: Thyristor-Controlled Reactor (TCR) in SVC Plants This is the mo...
The pursuit of perfect power quality is undergoing a fundamental shift, driven by a new semiconductor material: Silicon Carbide (SiC) . Comparing a traditional Active Harmonic Filter (AHF) with a SiC-based model reveals more than incremental upgrades; it showcases a leap in performance, efficiency, and capability. For decades, traditional AHFs have relied on silicon-based IGBTs. These components w...
The Role of Energy Storage Systems in Off-Grid Power Systems As the need for reliable and sustainable electricity increases worldwide, off-grid power systems are becoming vital. They are important for remote areas, islands, industrial sites, and places with limited access to the grid. Off-grid systems let communities and businesses work without support from national grids. This reduces the ne...
The Principle of High-Voltage Passive Filtering In high-voltage power systems, the widespread application of non-linear loads such as electric arc furnaces, frequency converters, and rectifiers generates a large amount of harmonic currents. These harmonics not only cause power grid voltage distortion and increase line losses but also may interfere with the operation of precision equipment and dama...