Harmonics Analysis Studies

FAQ

What is harmonics analysis and why is it important?

Harmonics analysis is an engineering study that measures and assesses the levels of harmonic distortion present in your electrical system. Harmonic distortion occurs when non-linear loads — such as variable frequency drives, UPS systems, switching power supplies, and electronic equipment — draw current in a non-sinusoidal pattern, introducing harmonic currents into the system. Left unaddressed, harmonics can cause overheating, equipment damage, reduced system efficiency, and interference with sensitive instrumentation and controls.

Harmonic distortion is generated by non-linear loads that draw current in pulses rather than in a smooth sinusoidal wave. Common sources include variable frequency drives (VFDs), uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), electronic ballasts, rectifiers, arc furnaces, and large concentrations of computer and IT equipment. As facilities increasingly adopt energy-efficient technologies and electronic controls, harmonic distortion has become a more prevalent concern in both industrial and commercial electrical systems.

Harmonic currents cause a range of damaging effects including overheating of transformers, cables, and motors beyond their rated capacity, nuisance tripping of circuit breakers and protective devices, reduced efficiency and increased energy consumption, interference with sensitive electronic equipment and instrumentation, premature failure of capacitor banks, and voltage distortion that affects the performance of connected equipment throughout the facility.

Bopat Electric’s harmonics analysis service includes field measurement of harmonic current and voltage levels at key points in your electrical system using specialized power quality analyzers, analysis of the recorded data to identify harmonic sources and assess compliance with applicable standards, and a detailed engineering report with findings and recommendations for mitigation. Where harmonic levels exceed acceptable limits, Bopat Electric provides targeted recommendations for harmonic mitigation measures.

Bopat Electric assesses harmonic distortion levels in accordance with IEEE 519 — the leading international standard for harmonic control in electrical power systems. IEEE 519 establishes limits for both current harmonic distortion at the point of common coupling and voltage harmonic distortion on the system. Compliance with IEEE 519 is increasingly required by utilities and is the recognized benchmark for acceptable harmonic performance in commercial and industrial facilities.

Based on the findings of the harmonics analysis, Bopat Electric’s engineers recommend appropriate mitigation measures tailored to your system and the sources of distortion identified. Solutions may include passive harmonic filters, active harmonic filters, isolation transformers, line reactors, phase-shifting transformers, or modifications to the configuration of non-linear loads. Bopat Electric can also manage the supply and installation of recommended mitigation equipment as part of a broader project scope.

Bopat Electric provides harmonics analysis study services throughout Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC, and through the BCES Global network of subsidiary companies, across the rest of North America.

Contact Bopat Electric at our Columbia office at 410-995-1715 or our Frederick office at 301-694-3726, or reach us through the request form at bopatelectric.com. Our engineering team will assess your facility’s power quality concerns and provide a scoped proposal for a harmonics analysis study and any recommended mitigation measures.