Bulletin No.

0140PD9502
March, 1997
Product Data Bulletin Lavergne, TN, USA

The Origin, Effect, and Suppression of

Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks

INTRODUCTION Traditionally, electrical loads have been characterized as inductive, capacitive

and/or resistive. Excluding switching transients, none of these can be classed as
particularly disruptive, either to utility networks, other consumers, or the network
to which they are connected.
During the 1980s, electronic power conversion became commonplace in industrial,
commercial, and institutional networks. These new loads, known as power con-
verters, impact all electrical networks, usually in a negative manner. Power
converters tend to be disruptive to the utility network and sometimes to other con-
sumers. When power electronic loads are present, attempts to correct power factor
in the traditional manner frequently results in premature capacitor failure and oth-
er disruptive events in the network.
This document is intended to raise your level of awareness about power electronic
loads, promote thorough investigation of a network before connecting power elec-
tronic loads, and encourage careful scrutiny of technical documents supporting a
specific manufacturer’s product.

Due to the exponential growth of power electronics, many utilities are adopting a
standard described in IEEE 519, A Guide to Harmonic Control in Electrical Sys-
tems, which states:
“This guide has incorporated the evolving understanding of the effect of static
power converters and other nonlinear loads on electric power systems. This
recommended practise recognizes the responsibility that users have not to de-
grade the voltage of the utility serving other users by requiring nonlinear cur-
rent from the utility. It also recognizes the responsibility of the utilities to
provide users with close to sine wave of voltage.”
The origins of harmonics are well known. Though the effects are different in each
network, they are predictable. Cost effective and reliable solutions exist to “cure”
harmonic-related problems; however, problems caused by power electronics de-
pend on the nature of the device and their effect is network dependent. Severe
problems cannot be solved by generic solutions.

HARMONICS AND Utilities generate an almost perfect sinusoidal voltage, as shown in Figure 1.
HARMONIC
GENERATORS Voltage (60 Hz)

0 π 2π

Figure 1 Sinusoidal Voltage Waveform

© 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved 1
Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks Bulletin No. 0140PD9502
Harmonics and Harmonic Generators March, 1997

VOLTAGE

RESISTANCE CURRENT

INDUCTANCE CURRENT

—Resistive Current in Phase with Voltage.

—Inductive Current Lags Voltage in Time.
CAPACITIVE CURRENT —Capacitive Current Leads Voltage in Time.

1 CYCLE
16.66 MILLISECONDS
360 ELECTRICAL DEGREES

Figure 2 Sinusoidal Current Waveforms

Inductive, capacitive, and/or resistive loads draw current that is precisely propor-
tional to the voltage and is also an almost perfect sinusoid (Figure 2). This is be-
cause these loads do not depend on the voltage to determine their impedance.
Their response, at a given frequency, is completely linear. In fact, at any single fre-
quency their response to a sinusoidal voltage will be linear.
Power electronic loads do not respond in this way. When presented with a sinuso-
idal voltage, the current is not proportional to the voltage and is not sinusoidal.
These loads are characterized as nonlinear, and include AC and DC variable speed
drives, power rectifiers and inverters, arc furnaces and discharge lighting (metal
halide, fluorescent, etc.).
The nonsinusoidal current consumed is due to the device impedance changing
over a complete voltage cycle.
A common power electronic rectifier, used in drives and other equipment, is a six-
pulse design. This rectifier, or converter, is a full wave device that rectifies or con-
verts AC to DC. Six semiconductors are arranged in a three-phase bridge with a
specific firing order, as shown in Figure 3.

SOURCE
REACTANCE
1 3 5 FIRING ORDER:
XL
A 1,2,3,4,5,6

+
B
M
-
C

4 6 2

Figure 3 Six Pulse Full Wave Rectifier

2 © 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved

Bulletin No. 0140PD9502 Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks
March, 1997 Harmonics and Harmonic Generators

The current waveform is not sinusoidal (Figure 4) and can be seen with an oscillo-
scope or power logic circuit monitor. This time domain representation provides
very little useful information in terms of determining network impact.

800

CURRENT IN AMPERES
400

-400

-800
0 .02 .04 .06
TIME IN SECONDS

Figure 4 Six-Pulse Full Wave Rectifier Non-Sinusoidal Current Waveform

The most useful information is contained in the frequency spectrum of the non-
sinusoidal wave (Figure 5).

100
CURRENT IN PERCENT OF FUND

80

60

40

20

0
0 300 600 900 1200
FREQUENCY IN HZ

Figure 5 Six-Pulse Full Wave Rectifier Typical Current Spectrum

The waveform shown in Figure 4 can be mathematically represented as the sum of

a number of sinusoidal waveforms at different magnitudes and phase angles at in-
teger multiples of the fundamental frequency of 60 Hz.

© 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved 3

Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks Bulletin No. 0140PD9502
The Effect of Harmonics in Networks March, 1997

The following mathematical process is known as the Fourier Transform, developed

by Jean Baptiste Fourier (1768-1830):

∞
f(t) = Ao + ∑ An cos ( nωo τ + θn )
n=1
or

f(t) = Ao + A 1 cos ( ωτ + θ 1 ) + A 2 cos ( 2ωτ + θ 2 ) + A 3 cos ( 3ωτ + θ 3 ) + …

where Ao = dc offset
An = magnitude of nth harmonic
ω = fundamental frequency
θn = phase angle

Note that the fundamental frequency magnitude can be expressed as 100% and the
other frequencies (harmonic frequencies) as a percentage of that fundamental.
Harmonic frequencies are whole number multiples of the fundamental. The har-
monics produced by the most common nonlinear loads are the 5th, 7th, 11th, and
13th (300, 420, 660, and 780 Hz, respectively).
Frequencies higher than the fundamental are a mathematical representation of a
nonsinusoidal waveform, and do not actually exist. Despite the nonexistence of
these higher frequencies, electrical networks respond as if they do exist. Therefore,
analysis and solutions can be based on the results of a Fourier Transform. A further
measurement tool is referred to as Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
Current Distortion:
∞

I2 + I3 + I4 + I5 + …
∑ Ih
h•2
% THD = ------------------------------------------------------ × 100% = -----------------
- × 100%
I1 I1

Voltage Distortion:

V2 + V3 + V4 + V5 + …
∑ Vh
h•2
% THD = --------------------------------------------------------------- × 100% = -------------------- × 100%
V1 V1

THD is the geometric addition of the harmonic values, either current or voltage di-
vided by the fundamental value. IEEE 519 discusses limits on voltage and current
distortion at the point of coupling to the utility network in terms of acceptable or
unacceptable values.

THE EFFECT OF Nonlinear currents flowing through a network impedance to nonlinear devices
HARMONICS IN distort the voltage waveform. The degree to which distortion occurs depends on
NETWORKS the level of network impedance. It is the voltage drop across the network imped-
ance at the various frequencies that causes the voltage distortion.
The origin or source of the distortion is the nonlinear devices in the network.
If a sinusoidal voltage is applied to a nonlinear device, the current will not be pro-
portional to the voltage. Normally, doubling the voltage causes a corresponding

4 © 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved

Bulletin No. 0140PD9502 Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks
March, 1997 The Effect of Harmonics in Networks

change in the current and the current wave shape remains the same. Consider a lin-
ear resistor as shown in Figure 6. A sinusoidal and proportional current results
from impressing a sinusoidal voltage. With the nonlinear resistor, the same voltage
causes a nonsinusoidal current to flow.

V LINEAR V NONLINEAR
RESISTOR RESISTOR

VOLTAGE i VOLTAGE i

CURRENT
CURRENT

Figure 6 Current Distortion Caused by Nonlinear Resistance

If the frequency of the voltage is changed, the frequency of the current changes ac-
cordingly but is still identical to the voltage. The impedance of the resistor also
changes but is constant at either frequency.
When the same voltage is applied to the nonlinear resistor, the current becomes
distorted. Electrical network distortion, then, is caused by the nonlinear character-
istics of the devices connected to that network.
Typically, the impedance of network loads is greater than the source impedance.
Most networks are designed in this manner to ensure reasonable voltage regula-
tion at the load. The power source shown in Figure 7 is sinusoidal and of relatively
low impedance. Accordingly, the voltage at node A is not distorted. The network
has an impedance and is linear. (Networks are typically inductive and thus linear
at any normally encountered frequency.) As the nonlinear current required by the
load flows through the network impedance, the voltage is distorted at node B due
to a voltage drop across the impedance at each frequency present.

NETWORK
NODE A IMPEDANCE NODE B
Z
NONLINEAR
SOURCE OR DISTORTED LOAD
SINUSOIDAL CURRENT
VOLTAGE

Figure 7 Voltage Distortion is Dependent on System Impedance

The voltage distortion is absolutely dependent on the network impedance. From

an analysis point of view, harmonic currents are considered to flow from the non-
linear load(s) to the source impedance and they behave as if this were true.
Frequently, in an attempt to limit available fault current, transformers installed in
network substations are designed to have a relatively high impedance. Although

© 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved 5

Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks Bulletin No. 0140PD9502
The Effect of Harmonics in Networks March, 1997

fault current is indeed limited, if nonlinear loads exist, voltage distortion is in-
creased due to nonlinear current flowing through the higher impedance.
Distorted harmonic voltage, at any frequency, caused by the flow of harmonic cur-
rent through an impedance can be represented by the following equation:
Vh = Ih x Zh
Vh - hth Harmonic Voltage
Ih - hth Harmonic Current
Zh - Network Impedance for hth Harmonic Current

The preceding equation shows that the harmonic voltage is the product of the har-
monic current and the impedance at the specific frequency.
The relationships between system impedance, reactance, and frequency work well
for low-voltage networks. On high-voltage systems, the relationships are more
complex, as shown below.
Zs = {Rs2 + Xs2}
Xs = 2πfFund Ls
Xsh = 2πfFund hLs = hXs
Zs - System Impedance
Xsh - System Reactance at Harmonic h
Xs - System Reactance
fFund - Fundamental Frequency in Hertz
h - Harmonic Number
Ls - System Inductance

These equations show that at a higher frequency, the same amount of current cre-
ates a larger voltage drop than at a lower frequency.
The tolerance of a network to harmonic distortion depends on the susceptibility of
the loads. The least susceptible load is resistive. In this case, the harmonic and fun-
damental energy is almost fully used and converted to heat. This is not a problem,
because it is generally the function of a resistive device. Rotating machines, partic-
ularly squirrel cage induction motors, that are in a harmonic path will see abnor-
mal heating, due to iron and copper losses at the higher frequencies. Noise is also
increased. In extreme cases, the harmonic flux distribution in the air gap can cause
a refusal to start smoothly and can initiate very high slip of the rotating mechanical
component behind the rotating magnetic field.
Transformers suffer copper and stray flux losses due to harmonic current. Har-
monic voltages may cause severe iron losses. The overall affect is overheating and
a resultant operational loss of motor life. There are several standards (IEEE and
ANSI) that determine operational loss of motor life.
ANSI/IEEE C57.110, Recommended Practice for Establishing Transformer Capability
When Supplying Non-Sinusoidal Load Current (1996), indicates that the maximum
current distortion seen by a transformer should not exceed 5% at rated current. The
root mean square (RMS) overvoltage (the geometric sum of fundamental and har-
monic voltages) should not exceed 5% at rated load and 10% at no load.
Conductors carrying harmonic current are subject to abnormal heating due to skin
effect and proximity effect. These vary as a function of frequency and spacing, as
shown in Figure 8. IEEE 519-1992 provides a cable derating chart for a specific har-
monic spectrum.

6 © 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved

Bulletin No. 0140PD9502 Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks
March, 1997 The Effect of Harmonics in Networks

100 100
PERCENTAGE
CABLE
NO. 8 DERATED
99 99 CAPACITY
NO. 1

98 98 1/0 AWG
CURVES BASED ON
2/0 AWG
FOLLOWING HARMONIC
CURRENT DISTRIBUTION 3/0 AWG
97 97
h I h (pu) 4/0 AWG
250 kcmil
5 0.175
7 0.110 350 kcmil
96 11 0.045 96
13 0.029
17 0.015 500 kcmil
19 0.010
23 0.009 750 kcmil
95 95
25 0.008
1000 kcmil

94 94
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

PERCENTAGE HARMONIC LOAD

Figure 8 Cable Derating vs. Harmonics with Six-Pulse Harmonic Current Distribution

Power electronic equipment—the devices that generate harmonics—can also suf-

fer from the presence of harmonics. The most common harmonic voltage effect oc-
curs due to distortion of the zero crossing of the voltage wave. Most computers and
programmable controllers may not tolerate more than 5% voltage distortion, with
the largest single harmonic not exceeding 3% of the fundamental. Induction disc
meters, used commonly for revenue purposes, can display positive or negative er-
rors when exposed to severe distortion. The irony is that the network being me-
tered is most often the harmonic source. Telephone and other communication
circuits may be subject to harmonic-related magnetic and electric fields. This is fre-
quently the source of communication error and interference.
Standard tables exist to account for the relative levels of interference that may be
caused by various harmonic frequencies and their magnitudes. These tables are
known as telephone influence factor (TIF) values.
Thermal overload relays, circuit breaker shunt trips, and power fuses are all affect-
ed by harmonics. The elements of these protective devices are resistive and operate
when a certain current creates a specific temperature over a period of time. The
normal fundamental current plus the harmonic current, geometrically added, can
often trip the temperature-sensitive element.
Measuring instruments not specifically designated as true RMS devices exhibit sig-
nificant inaccuracy in the presence of harmonics.
Possibly the most dramatic problems occur when power factor correction capaci-
tors are installed in a network with harmonic generators.
Harmonic currents flow from the nonlinear harmonic sources toward the lowest
impedance, usually the utility source. The impedance of the utility source is usu-
ally lower than the parallel paths offered by various network loads. Typically the
utility source impedance is 1/20 of the parallel load impedances. However, the
split of the harmonic currents depends on the various impedance ratios.

© 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved 7

Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks Bulletin No. 0140PD9502
The Effect of Harmonics in Networks March, 1997

Capacitor Impedance Change with Frequency:

Vc
I c = ------
Zc
If Z c = 0 or a small value
Then Ic = ∞ or a high value
1
And Zc = ---------------
j2πfC
Constant
Or Z c = ------------------------
f

Zc = Impedance of Capacitor
j = Operator
f = Frequency
C = Capacitance in Microfarads

A power factor correction capacitor has a very low impedance, particularly as fre-
quency increases. Consequently, a capacitor becomes an effective trap or filter
when exposed to frequencies above the fundamental. This is usually to the detri-
ment of the capacitor (see Figure 9), which may be exposed to harmonic currents.
Capacitors are required, by regulatory bodies, to tolerate certain levels of overcur-
rent on a continuous basis. Below 690 volts, the current capability is defined as
135% of nominal current. The overcurrent may be derived from two sources. Ap-
proximately 20% of the 35% may be due to voltage. The balance of 15% may be due
to harmonics. However, in the absence of one or the other, neither can exceed the
allotted proportion.

ih ih ih ih

ih

XC
OTHER LOADS

Figure 9 Normal Flow of Harmonic Currents

The heating affect of harmonic currents in capacitors is very damaging and will
shorten operating life dramatically.
The impedance of modern capacitors is very low compared to those manufactured
previously. This is a function of the design and the materials used. Although lower
impedance may, at times, seem to be undesirable, the modern capacitor is very ef-
ficient and cost effective, but the network characteristics must be considered when
evaluating the application.

Parallel Resonance Connecting a capacitor into networks with harmonic generators causes several af-
fects. Parallel resonance occurs when the system inductive reactance and capaci-
tive reactances are equal at some frequency. This most often occurs with a capacitor
connected at the main switchgear. If the combination of capacitor banks and the
system inductance results in a parallel resonance near (not necessarily “at”) one of

8 © 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved

Bulletin No. 0140PD9502 Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks
March, 1997 The Effect of Harmonics in Networks

the harmonic frequencies generated by nonlinear loads, that harmonic current ex-
cites the circuit. This causes a highly amplified current to oscillate between the en-
ergy storage in the inductance and the energy storage in the capacitance. The
resulting high currents cause severe voltage distortion. For example, if telephone
circuits are in close proximity to the power circuits, telephone interference results.

SOURCE
UTILITY IMPEDANCE
SOURCE HARMONIC
SOURCE

HARMONIC
SOURCE

EQUIVALENT CIRCUIT

Figure 10 Parallel Resonance of Capacitors with the Utility Source Impedance

Figure 10 shows the parallel combination of the capacitor bank and the source re-
actance, which appear as a large impedance. Thus, the distorted currents flowing
through this high impedance cause severely distorted voltage. The distorted or
harmonic voltages result in high harmonic currents in the capacitor and the source
reactance. If this resonance is very close to one of the frequencies generated by the
harmonic loads, the currents quickly cause a circuit overcurrent device to operate.
It is not unusual to find currents that are not high enough to trip breakers or oper-
ate fuses but that are high enough to rapidly damage the capacitor. This is called
partial resonance.
As the network load level increases, the magnification occurring at resonance de-
creases, due to lower impedance paths for the current to flow. Network circuits are
most susceptible to harmonic distortion when lightly loaded. For this reason, fixed
capacitor installations should be carefully investigated. If a fixed kVAR is lower
than 20% of the substation transformer kVA rating, light load resonance is unlikely.
Despite this fact, normal operating resonance must be investigated.
The potential for parallel resonance is easily determined, and is a function of the
short circuit kVA available at the point of connecting the capacitor and the kVAR
rating of the capacitor. The natural resonant frequency equation shows the results
for two kVAR values. The second is close enough to the 11th harmonic (660 Hz) to
produce damaging harmonic current values, despite the fact that it cannot be
classed as sharp resonance.

kVA × 100
f r (approx.) = ----------------------------- × f
kVAR × Zss 1

1500 × 100
f r (approx.) = --------------------------- × 60 = 956.68 Hz
100 × 5.9
1500 × 100
f r (approx.) = --------------------------- × 60 = 676.48 Hz
200 × 5.9
f r = Natural Resonant Frequency
f 1 = Fundamental Frequency
Zss = Percent Short-Circuit Impedance

Switched capacitor banks avoid light load resonance. Always investigate the po-
tential for resonance at each stage value and at the total bank rating.

© 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved 9

Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks Bulletin No. 0140PD9502
The Suppression of Harmonics March, 1997

Series Resonance Series resonance may occur with fixed capacitors at load centers or with capacitors
that are switched with motors (Figure 11). In both cases, the capacitor will “see”
harmonic currents from any nonlinear loads that may be present. In addition, the
relatively high network impedance (as opposed to the source impedance in paral-
lel resonance) causes significant voltage distortion. As in parallel resonance, the ca-
pacitor(s) may resonate partially. The network or line impedance is in series with
the capacitor looking from the harmonic source. Thus, it can present a low imped-
ance to one of the harmonic currents.

LINE
HARMONIC IMPEDANCE
SOURCE
UTILITY
SOURCE
CAPACITOR

HARMONIC CAPACITOR
SOURCE
SOURCE
IMPEDANCE

ONE LINE DIAGRAM EQUIVALENT CIRCUIT

Figure 11 Series Resonance (Capacitor on Feeders)

The potential for series resonance with motor switched capacitors is quite high.
The random or sequenced operation of a number of motor/capacitor combinations
produces a variable capacitor. Any number of kVAR combinations may produce
the value(s) required to produce resonance at a number of different frequencies.
It is often thought that these problems may be circumvented by installing the re-
quired capacitors at the line side of the substation transformer supplying the low
voltage network that contains nonlinear loads. Remember that the capacitor will
still be in the path of nonlinear currents, producing somewhat distorted voltage.
Therefore, the possibility of series resonance between the capacitors and the trans-
former leakage inductance may still be present.
As with parallel resonance, series resonance magnifies harmonics, shortens capac-
itor life, affects other equipment, and promotes voltage distortion at the point of
coupling to the utility network.
Most networks can tolerate high levels of harmonics. The devices in a network
range from tolerant (as with a resistive device) to very intolerant (as with capaci-
tors). In all cases, the effects of harmonics are negative. The likelihood of degrading
power quality on a utility network is always high. This will be the subject of in-
creased attention as nonlinear loads continue to increase in quantity, and power
factor correction is required to mitigate the inevitable increases in utility demand
charges.

THE SUPPRESSION Properly designed filters can correct power factor in harmonic rich environments
OF HARMONICS while also performing the primary function of filtering harmonics. In designing fil-
ters to avoid network degradation due to high levels of harmonics, some power
factor correction takes place as a secondary benefit. In either case, it is imperative
to know the harmonic “footprint” at the point of connection.
Power factor correction decisions must be based on technical logic and the charac-
teristics of the corrective equipment being considered. Very rarely can the desired
results be achieved with generic devices. The problem is so highly network related

10 © 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved

Bulletin No. 0140PD9502
March, 1997
Power Factor Correction in a
Harmonic Rich Environment
Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks
The Suppression of Harmonics
that the effect of a nonlinear load on two different networks, even of the same volt-
age, is quite different. The solution is also network related and therefore is usually
different in each case.
Consider power factor correction in a harmonic rich environment. Certain values
of the 5th, 7th, 11th, and 13th harmonic are present. If a capacitor is installed, the
difficulties previously described occur, as shown in Figure 12. Logic dictates that
the device must be inductive at the 5th harmonic (300 Hz) and above, ensuring that
resonance and harmonic magnification do not occur. In addition, capacitance at 60
Hz must be included to provide power factor correction.
INDUCTIVE CURRENT
REACTOR
60 Hz 300 Hz 420 Hz
CAPACITOR
RESONANT POINT OF
THE REACTOR CAPACITOR
CAPACITIVE CURRENT
Figure 12 Inductive/Capacitive Current and Resonance
An inductance is linear through the frequencies that are present, and can be seen
by its current response as frequency rises. Capacitors are also linear and respond
to frequency (see Figure 12).
The combination of these two characteristics (ensuring the proper inductance and
capacitance) produces a current response that changes from a capacitive character-
istic to an inductive characteristic at a carefully selected frequency. This crossover
point must be below the first dominant frequency (excluding the 3rd harmonic)
and above 60 Hz. The crossover point is the resonant point of the combined induc-
tive/capacitive device.
A device with this characteristic is simply an iron core inductor in series with a ca-
pacitor. It is often called a detuned or reactor capacitor.
When applying a detuned capacitor, the impedance at the point of connection
must be fixed. Since network impedance is constantly changing, this equipment
must be connected at the transformer secondary (distribution) switchgear. The
presence of the transformer ensures fixed impedance.
In addition, the resultant new network resonant point must be determined. This is
always below the resonant point of the detuned capacitor being installed. The de-
tuned capacitor may have a resonant point from 3.8 to approximately 4.5 times the
fundamental 60 Hz (228 to 270 Hz). Thus, the network may become resonant at or
near the 3rd harmonic (180 Hz). This frequency occurs with single phase nonlinear
loads. Many welders and small DC and variable frequency drives are of this de-
sign.
Figure 13 provides an example of an inductive/capacitive device tuned at 4.7 or
282 Hz, and shows network resonance at 230 Hz. If the inductive/capacitive de-
vice is tuned to 221 Hz, the network is resonant at 180 Hz. If this frequency is
present, resonance is excited with the attendant very negative results.
© 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved 11
Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks Bulletin No. 0140PD9502
The Suppression of Harmonics March, 1997

FILTER 1 > 480 BUS (SCAN 1)

0.35
Freeborn Industries, Canada
Industrial 4.7 L-C Series Filter
0.30

Min: 0.00178739
0.25 Max: 0.300729

0.20

OHMS
0.15

0.10

0.05

0.00
0 300 600 900 1200 1500
FREQUENCY (Hz)

Figure 13 Industrial Network Impedance with 500 kVAR 5th Harmonic Filter
Connected. Note Safe Value Resonance at 230 Hz.

Detuned Capacitors Installing detuned capacitors at the load in a similar fashion to motor switched ca-
pacitors or at remote load centers may be desirable; however, you must exercise
great care.
• Determine conclusively that the impedance variations at the point of connec-
tion do not allow local resonance to be excited by an existing harmonic.
• Several installations within the network means that the detuned capacitors are
operating in parallel. If they are being switched with motors, the network reso-
nance point as well as impedance variations are being shifted as the detuned
units are being switched. The potential for local resonance is increased.
• Deterioration of the capacitor in the detuned units raises the unit resonance
point with respect to frequency. With an inductor and capacitor in series, the ca-
pacitor is the most likely to fail. Given the likelihood of higher stresses, as noted
previously, the capacitor is more likely to fail in small equipment as compared
to a central unit at the main distribution point.
• Large equipment is usually designed to communicate problems of this nature.
This is not as easily accomplished in smaller units located at or near specific
loads.
• Purchasing small detuned equipment from different manufacturers can present
difficulties. The normal tolerance on iron core reactors is ± 3%. The allowable
tolerance on capacitors is - 0/+ 15%.
• If a large drive is supplied by a 1:1 or a step-down transformer, it may be ap-
propriate to install a detuned unit on the load side of the transformer. The im-
pedance is fixed at this point.

Filters When filtering is required to be the higher priority, all of the issues described for
detuned systems apply. The characteristics of the network and the harmonic foot-
print are even more important in this case. Filters may be designed to lower any
frequency but generally are rated from 4.7 to 4.9 times the fundamental (282 to
294 Hz).
It is common for filters to be designed to resonate close to more than one harmonic
frequency, filtering those frequencies accordingly.

12 © 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved

Bulletin No. 0140PD9502 Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks
March, 1997 The Suppression of Harmonics

In all cases, capacitors should be rated for design life at 115% of nominal voltage.
They should also tolerate 180% of nominal current continuously over the design
life. This will ensure stability of the resonant point.
Filtering equipment should be equipped with very reliable and sensitive tempera-
ture detectors located at the potential hot spots of critical components. Tempera-
ture detectors may be connected to relays and alarms that audibly or visually
indicate a specific temperature has been achieved over a period of time. Higher
temperature and/or extended time should trip the unit off line.
The extra cost of this protection is minimal compared to the basic cost of the equip-
ment or the damage than can result with an off-tune filter.

C C C C1

L L R L R

R C2
R

(a) (b) (c) (d)

(a) SINGLE-TUNED FILTER

(b) FIRST ORDER HIGH-PASS FILTER
(c) SECOND ORDER HIGH-PASS FILTER
(d) THIRD ORDER HIGH-PASS FILTER

Figure 14 Shunt Filter Configurations

Various filter designs are shown in Figure 14. Although each has its own applica-
tion, all provide a low impedance to a specific frequency or frequencies.
An existing capacitor bank should never be converted to a filter by adding a reactor
because:
• The long-term stability of the capacitor is impossible to confirm.
• It is probably not sufficiently “tough” to tolerate the higher voltage and current
stresses imposed in filter duty.
• It is likely that a specially designed reactor is required. In this case, it may cost
less to purchase a previously designed piece of equipment.

Series Reactors Using series reactors can sometimes solve harmonic problems. Without question,
harmonics may be “blocked” by the use of a series-connected high impedance, but
the level of blocking is usually low and network dependent. For this reason, using
series reactors is not recommended as a generic solution, but may be effective for
some applications.

© 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved 13

 Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks Bulletin No. 0140PD9502
The Suppression of Harmonics March, 1997

Network Characteristics Using network simulation software, a network can be modeled and harmonic data,
linear load data, impedances, and capacitor or filter characteristics added.

V(busA-N), I(busA) vst MIXES > BUSA (SCAN1)

4000 0.08
MAX: 383.559 480 volt frequency scan loadside (LV) of the
MIN: -383.559 Distribution Transformer
44 kV 3000 AVG: 244.197
ABS: 383.559
2000 RMS: 271.233 0.06
MIN: 0.00570374
CF : 1.41413
MAX: 0.079518
3,000 kVA FF : 1.11071
Vrms / Arms

1000

Z (Ohms)
Z = 6.2%
0 0.04

-1000

-2000 0.02

-3000
LINEAR LOADS
2,000 kVA -4000 0.00
0.0 10.0 20.0 30.0 40.0 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200
TIME (mS) Frequency (Hz)

Figure 15 Linear Loads

Figure 15 shows a simple 480 V network with only linear loads. The voltage and
current are identified as V (Bus A - N) 1 (Bus A), and measured at the transformer
secondary frequency. The impedance (plotted as frequency and ohms) is nearly
linear with the frequency.

V(busA-N), I(busA) vst MIXES > BUSA (SCAN1)

4000 0.08
MAX: 4616.51 480 volt frequency scan loadside (LV) of the
MIN: -4616.51 Distribution Transformer
44 kV 3000 AVG: 2800.61
ABS: 4616.51
2000 RMS: 3087.74 0.06
MIN: 0.00570374
CF : 1.49511 MAX: 0.079518
3,000 kVA FF : 1.10253
Vrms / Arms

Z = 6.2% 1000
Z (Ohms)

0 0.04

-1000

-2000 0.02

-3000
LINEAR LOADS NONLINEAR
2,000 kVA LOADS 2,000 kVA -4000 0.00
30.0 40.0 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200
0.0 10.0 20.0
TIME (mS) Frequency (Hz)

Figure 16 Linear & Nonlinear Loads

Figure 16 shows the same network with a nonlinear load added. The current wave-
form identified as V (Bus A - N) I (Bus A) is somewhat distorted; the voltage is only
slightly distorted. This slight distortion is because this particular model used only
the transformer impedance rather than a larger network impedance. (The higher
impedance would cause more voltage distortion.)

14 © 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved

 Bulletin No. 0140PD9502 Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks
March, 1997 The Suppression of Harmonics

V(busA-N), I(busA) vst MIKE2>L01A-BUSA(ALL)

4000 1140
MAX: 3793.35 FREQ: 60
44 kV MIN: -3793.35 1080 CAPACITOR CURRENT PHASE A FUND: 1192.12
3000 AVG: 2273.64 1020
960 THD: 33.8297
ABS: 3793.35 RWSh: 403.289
900
2000 RMS: 2533.25 840 RWS: 1258.49
3,000 kVA CF : 1.49743 ASUM: 1814.92
780

CURRENT (A)
FF : 1.11418 TIF: 193.094
Z = 6.2% 720

Vrms / Arms
1000 IT: 243006
660
600
0 540
480
-1000 420
360
300
-2000 240
180
LINEAR LOADS NONLINEAR CAPACITOR -3000 120
60
2,000 kVA LOADS 500 kVA 1,000 kVAR 0
-4000 0 120 240 360 480 600 720
0.0 10.0 20.0 30.0 40.0 Frequency (Hz)
TIME (mS)

Figure 17 Linear, Nonlinear & Low Voltage Capacitive Loads

Because the network is still inductive, the impedance plot remains unchanged (Figure
17). A capacitor has been added for power factor correction. The current waveform,
identified as V (Bus A - N) I (Bus A) is very distorted, as is the voltage wave. The bar
graph shows the fundamental current, the 5th harmonic at 270 A or 23% of the funda-
mental, the 7th at 300 A or 25% and the 11th at 60 A or 5%.

CAPACITOR CURRENT PHASE A

3000
MAX: 2256.72
44 kV MIN: -2256.72
AVG: 1120.75
2000 ABS: 2256.72
RMS: 1258.49
CF : 1.79321
3,000 kVA 1000 FF : 1.12289
Z = 6.2%
Current (A)

-1000

-2000

LINEAR LOADS NONLINEAR CAPACITOR

-3000
2,000 kVA LOADS 500 kVA 1,000 kVAR 0 10 20 30 40
TIME (mS)

DERIVED>2SCA-VSERA(ALL) MIKE2S>BUSA(SCAN1)
60 0.14
MAX: 41.1104 MIN: 0.00584799
MIN: -41.1104 MAX: 0.128661
AVG: 24.5942 0.12
40 ABS: 41.1104 480 volt frequency scan loadside (LV)
RMS: 27.477
Impedance (Ohms)

of the Distribution Transformer

CF: 1.49617 0.10
CURRENT (A)

20 TF: 1.11722

0.08
0
0.06
-20
0.04

-40 0.02

-60 0.00
0 10 20 30 40 60 120 180 240 300 360 420 480 540 600 660 720 780 840 900 960 1020
TIME (mS) Frequency (Hz)

Figure 18 Linear, Nonlinear & Low Voltage Capacitive Loads

In Figure 18, the capacitor current (identified at the top of the plot) is seriously distort-
ed. The operational life expectancy of a capacitor operating with this waveform may
not exceed 30 days. The current plot of the transformer primary, identified as 2SCA, is
also severe. Impedance, identified as 480 V frequency scan, shows a potential for reso-
nance at 380 Hz (peak of the plot), but the shape of the curve ensures damaging current
will be present at any frequency, from 420 Hz to over 1,000 Hz.

© 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved 15

Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks Bulletin No. 0140PD9502
The Suppression of Harmonics March, 1997

44 kV V(busA-N), I(busA) vst

4000
MAX: 4661.41
MIN: -4661.41
3000 AVG: 2843.14
ABS: 4661.41
3,000 kVA 2000 RMS: 3132.81
Z = 6.2% CF : 1.48793
FF : 1.10188

Vrms / Arms
CAPACITOR 1000

1,000 kVAR 0

-1000

-2000

-3000
LINEAR LOADS NONLINEAR
-4000
2,000 kVA LOADS 500 kVA 0.0 10.0 20.0 30.0 40.0
TIME (mS)

DERIVED>2SCA-VSERA(ALL)
60
MAX: 45.8958 MIKE3S>BUSA(SCAN1)
MIN: -45.8958 .150
AVG: 25.9787 MIN: 0.00188947
40 ABS: 45.8958 MAX: 0.144114
RMS: 28.3757 .125
CF: 1.61743
CURRENT (A)

Z (Ohms)
20 TF: 1.09227
480 volt frequency scan loadside (LV)
.100
of the Distribution Transformer

0 .075

-20 .050

.025
-40
0.00
-60 60 120 180 240 300 360 420 480 540 600 660 720 780 840 900 960 1020
0 10 20 30 40 Frequency (Hz)
TIME (mS)

Figure 19 Linear, Nonlinear & High Voltage Capacitive Loads

With the capacitor moved to the primary of the transformer (Figure 19), the 480 V
current and voltage waveforms, identified as V (Bus A - N) I (Bus A), are essentially
as they were with only the linear and nonlinear loads connected. This is a very de-
sirable improvement. However, the current at the transformer primary (plot iden-
tified at the top as 2SCA) is distorted enough to create more than 5% voltage
distortion (THD).
The impedance plot (identified as 480 V frequency scan load side) taken at the
transformer secondary shows the potential resonance between 500 Hz and 555 Hz
with the capacitor and transformer inductance tuned to filter at 545 Hz. Any loss
of kVAR in the capacitor would shift this tuning point to the 11th harmonic
(660 Hz). There is an abundance of energy to excite resonance at that frequency.
kVAR loss may be due to normal degradation of the capacitor or the operation of
perhaps a few of its many unit fuses. The utility may also change the characteristics
of the network and possibly cause resonance at 420 Hz or 660 Hz.

16 © 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved

Bulletin No. 0140PD9502 Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks
March, 1997 The Suppression of Harmonics

V(busA-N), I(busA) vst

44 kV 4000
MAX: 3497.47
MIN: -3497.47
3000 AVG: 2230.14
ABS: 3497.47
2000 RMS: 2465.72
3,000 kVA CF : 1.41844
Z = 6.2% FF : 1.10564

Vrms / Arms
1000

-1000

-2000

-3000

LINEAR LOADS NONLINEAR 1,000 kVAR -4000

4.4 FILTER 0.0 10.0 20.0 30.0 40.0
2,000 kVA LOADS 500 kVA TIME (mS)

MIKE4>L01A-BUSA(ALL)
60
FREQ: 60
Filter Reactor Current Phase A FUND: 1265.75
THD: 9.44474
40 RMSh: 119.546
RMS: 1271.38
ASUM: 1428.68
CURRENT (A)

20 TIF: 36.4013
IT: 46279.8

-20

-40

-60
0 120 240 360 480 600 720
Frequency (Hz)

Figure 20 Linear, Nonlinear & Low Voltage Filter Loads

A solution to this problem is a filter tuned to resonate at 4.4 Hz or 264 Hz (Figure 20).
This is a detuned capacitor.
The 480 V current and voltage waveforms are better now than with only the linear
loads connected. The power factor is also improved with the injection of 1,000 kVAR.
The current bar graph, indicated as filter reactor current, shows a reasonable level of
filtering. In fact, 51% of the 300 Hz and 75% of the 420 Hz current have been filtered.
The 660 Hz has been equally reduced.

© 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved 17

Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks Bulletin No. 0140PD9502
The Suppression of Harmonics March, 1997

CAPACITOR CURRENT PHASE A

44 kV 2000

3,000 kVA 1000

Z = 6.2%

Current (A)
MAX: 1946.04
0 MIN: -1946.04
AVG: 1140.06
ABS: 1946.04
RMS: 1271.38
-1000 CF : 1.53065
FF : 1.11519

LINEAR LOADS NONLINEAR 1,000 kVAR -2000

2,000 kVA LOADS 500 kVA 4.4 FILTER 0 10 20 30 40
TIME (mS)

DERIVED>2SCA-VSERA(ALL)
40 MIKE4S>BUSA(SCAN1)
MAX: 37.8577
MIN: -37.8577 0.12
MIN: 0.000801456
AVG: 24.1781 MAX: 0.118105
ABS: 37.8577
RMS: 26.7468
0.10
20
CF: 1.41541

Z (Ohms)
CURRENT (A)

TF: 1.10624 480 volt frequency scan loadside (LV)

0.08
of the Distribution Transformer

0 0.06

0.04

-20
0.02

0.00
60 120 180 240 300 360 420 480 540 600 660 720 780 840 900 960 1020
-40
0 10 20 30 40 Frequency (Hz)
TIME (mS)

Figure 21 Linear, Nonlinear & Low Voltage Filter Loads

The capacitor current, identified as capacitor current phase A (Figure 21), is heavily
distorted because it is “loaded” with 5th, 7th and 11th harmonic current. This cur-
rent waveform is measured at the capacitor terminals, on the load side of the reac-
tor, which is in series. It clearly illustrates the need for a robust capacitor.
The transformer primary current waveform, identified as 2SCA, is not badly dis-
torted.
And finally, the 480 V network impedance plot shows resonance at 250 Hz and the
network tuned at 210 Hz, both safe values. They are well above 180 Hz and well
below 300 Hz. These are both frequencies that could exist.

18 © 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved

Bulletin No. 0140PD9502 Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks
March, 1997 Summary

SUMMARY Because harmonic solutions are network dependent, future changes in the network
must be considered. A reduction in nonlinear loads reduces the duty required of a
detuned capacitor or a filter. An increase in nonlinear loads overloads the equip-
ment. Suppliers should provide solutions for potential network changes based on
current equipment and usage.
Assuming main distribution connection, there are two possibilities. One is to pro-
vide for a significant “overload” capability while maintaining reliability (120 to
130% is a reasonable factor). The other possibility is to make future expansion of
the equipment easy and cost effective. The same considerations apply if a filter or
detuned capacitor is connected to the load side of a transformer dedicated to a sin-
gle nonlinear load.

Electrical equipment should be serviced only by qualified electrical maintenance personnel. No responsibility is
assumed by Square D for any consequences arising out of the use of this material.

© 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved 19

Harmonics in Industrial Electrical Networks Bulletin No. 0140PD9502
March, 1997

Merlin Gerin Square D Telemecanique

0140PD9502 October, 1997 Printed in USA 03/97

© 1997 Square D All Rights Reserved

20