Introduction

Harmonic voltages and currents in an electric power system are a result of non-linear
electric loads. Harmonic frequencies in the power grid are a frequent cause of power
quality problems. Harmonics in power systems result in increased heating in the
equipment and conductors, misfiring in variable speed drives, and torque pulsations in
motors. Reduction of harmonics is considered desirable.

A linear element in a power system is a component in which the current is

proportional to the voltage. In general, this means that the current wave shape will be
the same as the voltage (See Figure 1). Typical examples of linear loads include
motors, heaters and incandescent lamps. The current drawn by non-linear loads is not
sinusoidal but it is periodic, meaning that the current wave looks the same from cycle
to cycle. Periodic waveforms can be described mathematically as a series of
sinusoidal waveforms that have been summed together (See Figure 3). The sinusoidal
components are integer multiples of the fundamental where the fundamental, in the
United States, is 60 Hz. The only way to measure a voltage or current that contains
harmonics is to use a true-RMS reading meter. If an averaging meter is used, which is
the most common type, the error can be significant.

OBJECTIVES
1. What are harmonics?
Harmonics are extra frequencies. Harmonics are currents or voltage with frequencies
that are integer multiples of the fundamental power frequency. The initial, major sine
wave component has a frequency, f, equal to the frequency of the complex wave. This
fundamental frequency.

2. What are common harmonics sources?

Harmonics are produced by nonlinear loads or devices that draw non-sinusoidal
currents. Some harmonic sources are not related to power electronics and have been in
existence for many years such as transformer, machines, fluorescent lamps (with
Magnetic Ballasts), and Arc Furnaces. Next harmonics sources are power electronics
loads such as line commutated converters, voltage-source converters, and switchedmode power supplies.
3. What are consequences of harmonics?
Harmonics are caused by non-linear loads, that is loads that draw a non-sinusoidal
current from a sinusoidal voltage source. Overheating of standard electrical supply
transformers will shortens the life of transformer. There may be interference with
communication and auto tone control equipment. Metering may not register properly.
Harmonic currents circulating in the power system increase copper losses and the
heating of equipment, such as transformers and generators. Generators can have
additional problems with excessive harmonic voltage distortion, causing multiple zero

crossings of the current waveform. This can cause interference and operation
instability. Breaker and fuse operations may occur for no apparent reason.
4. How to reduce or eliminate harmonics effect?
Harmonics can be minimized and to some extent prevented by designing electrical
equipment and systems to prevent harmonics from causing equipment or system
damage. Analyzing harmonic symptoms to determine their causes and devise
solutions. Identifying and reducing or eliminating the medium that is transmitting
harmonics. Using power conditioning equipment to mitigate harmonics and other
power quality problems went they occur.
5. What is your opinion on the harmonics?
Harmonics currents can have a significant impact on electrical distribution systems
and the facilities they feed. It is important to consider the impact of harmonics when
contemplating additions or changes to a system. In addition, identifying the size and
location of non-linear loads should be an important part of any maintenance,
troubleshooting and repair program.

Conclusion
Harmonic currents can have a significant impact on electrical distribution systems and
the facilities that they feed. It is important to consider their impact when
contemplating additions or changes to a system. In addition, identifying the size and
location of non-linear loads should be an important part of any maintenance,
troubleshooting and repair program. Moreover, there are also several solutions that
can be taken to reduce the harmonic in electrical appliances or equipment.

References
1. "Power System Harmonics" (PDF). Rockwell Automation. Allen-Bradley.
http://www.powerstudies.com/files/Harm_Intro.pdf
2. HARMONICS. 2013 ZENER ELECTRIC P/L| VARIABLE SPEED
DRIVE & INVENTIVE TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS AUSTRALIA
http://www.zener.com.au/harmonics.php
3. harmonic. Whatis.com. Margaret Rouse
http://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/harmonic
4. Harmonics, Overtones, and the Fundamental. sengpielaudio.com. Eberhard
Sengpiel.
http://www.sengpielaudio.com/calculator-harmonics.htm