The Effects of Harmonics on Capacitors
include additional heating - and in severe cases overloading, increased
dielectric or voltage stress, and unwanted losses. Also, the combination of harmonics
and capacitors in a system could lead to a more severe power quality condition called
harmonic resonance, which has the potential for extensive damage. Consequently,
these negative effects will shorten capacitor life.
Capacitors are typically installed in the electrical power system – from commercial and industrial to distribution and transmission systems – as power factor correction devices. However, even though it is a basic component of a harmonic filter (aside from the reactor), it is not free from the damaging effects of harmonics. In a power system characterized by high harmonic distortion levels, capacitor banks are vulnerable to failures.
Capacitors are typically installed in the electrical power system – from commercial and industrial to distribution and transmission systems – as power factor correction devices. However, even though it is a basic component of a harmonic filter (aside from the reactor), it is not free from the damaging effects of harmonics. In a power system characterized by high harmonic distortion levels, capacitor banks are vulnerable to failures.
IEEE Limits
IEEE 18-2002
states that a capacitor
is designed to operate at a maximum of 135% of its reactive power (kVAR)
ratings. In addition, it must withstand a continuous RMS overvoltage of 110%,
peak overvoltage of 120%, and an overcurrent of 180% of nameplate rating. Although
the standard did not specify the limits for individual harmonics, the above percentages
can be used as basis to determine the maximum allowable harmonic levels.
Harmonic Effects
The
reactance of a capacitor bank is inversely proportional to the frequency, as
can be noted in the formula,
Xc = 1/(2πfC)
where:
Xc =
Capacitive reactance
C =
Capacitance
f =
Frequency
As a
result, the capacitor bank acts like a sink, attracting unfiltered harmonic
currents. This effect increases the thermal and dielectric stresses to the
capacitor units (i.e. overload).
To
illustrate, consider a harmonic-rich electrical system with 5th
harmonic voltage of around 20% the fundamental. A 4160 V, 300 kVAR capacitor
bank has a reactance of 57.7 Ω at the fundamental frequency (e.g. 60 Hz) and
shall draw a capacitive current of 41.6 A according to Ohm's Law. On the other
hand, the capacitor reactance is only 11.54 Ω at the 5th harmonic (5
x 60 = 300 Hz). Subsequently, this same capacitor bank energized with 5th
order harmonic voltage will also draw 41.6 A.
Fundamental
Current:
I1
= 4.16 kV/(√3)(57.7 Ω)
I1
= 41.62 A
5th
Harmonic Current:
I5
= (20%)(4.16 kV)/( √3)(11.54 Ω)
I5
= 41.62 A
Total RMS
current:
Irms = √(I12
+ IH2) = √(41.622 + 41.622)
Irms = 58.86
A or 141.4% of Fundamental Current (I1) – could blow capacitor fuses
Increase in Capacitor Current Due to Harmonics |
In such
cases, nuisance blowing is expected since most capacitor fuses are sized based
on the 135% kVAR limit. Otherwise, capacitor unit shall suffer overloading and
heating. This shows why nuisance capacitor fuse blowing and/or breaker tripping
indicate very high harmonic distortion levels in the area.
Moreover, frequent
switching of nonlinear magnetic components such as reactors and transformers
can generate harmonic currents that will increase capacitor loading.
Harmonic Resonance
A serious concern
arising from the use of capacitors in an electrical power system is the
possibility of system resonance. This effect imposes voltages and currents that
are higher than would be the case without resonance.
Harmonic resonance in a power system
may be classified as parallel or series resonance, and both types are present
in a harmonic-rich environment. Parallel resonance causes current
multiplication, whereas series resonance produces voltage magnification. Substantial
damage to capacitor banks would result if the amplitude of the offending
frequency is large enough during resonant conditions. Also, there is a high probability
that other electrical devices on the system would also be damaged.
For such reason, harmonic analysis
must be performed before installation of a power factor improvement capacitor
bank to ensure that resonance frequencies do not correspond with prominent
harmonics contained in the currents and voltages.
References:
IEEE 519-1992. Recommended Practice
and Requirements for Harmonic Control in Electrical Power Systems
Sankaran, C. (1999). Effects of
Harmonics on Power Systems 1
9 comments:
The information is really good. Request you to share in detail about Series and Parallel resonance conditions in case of harmonics.
Ravi,
Sure... I'll try to find some time to do that...
Thanks...
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Nice post, things explained in details. Thank You.
Sure all the illustration is clear and according to IEEE 18-2002
Sure all the illustration is clear and according to IEEE 18-2002
This information will be helpful for my thesis
Thanks for the information,
Question?
Explain briefly effect of harmonic on capacitor bank size 1000kVar..
Thank you.
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