A series tuned harmonic filter is a combination of inductor and capacitor

designed to trap a certain harmonic. These filters are applied in parallel with the power
system and is often called shunt passive filters. For most harmonic filters in power
systems, filters are tuned to 4.2 or 4.7 for trapping 5th order harmonics. For capturing
7th order, harmonics filters can be tuned to 6.7. These filters are often called ‘detuned’
filters since they are not tuned to the exact harmonic order. Exact tuning of filter to 5th
or 7th is usually not done due to additional cost and engineering required to size those
filters. Exact tuning if desired can be done using the calculator below. Device
tolerance and component degradation could result in shifting of
tuning point over time and has to be considered during the design
process.
Harmonic filter design involves initially selecting the size of reactive
compensation (kVar) desired. This could be based on the need for power factor
correction or based on the size of capacitors available commercially. Note that if
capacitor kVar is made minimum then the size of harmonic filter reactor increases. So
there has to be compromise made between inductor and capacitor selection in shunt
passive filter design.
See: Power Factor Calculator
The harmonic filter calculator below can be used to calculate the filter
parameters needed to tune to a particular frequency.
HARMONIC FILTER CALCULATOR
3 Phase Reactive Power Requirement of Harmonic Source [kVar]*
Minimum capacitive compensation desired.
System Voltage [V]*
Phase-Phase Voltage
System Frequency*
50 Hz
60 Hz
400 Hz
Harmonic Order to Tune
4.20
Click on the dot and use arrow key for fine adjustment
Q of Reactor
50
Q typically between 30-100
RESULTS- FILTER PARAMETERSNOTE: LOW VOLTAGE CAPACITORS ARE USUALLY CONNECTED IN
DELTA
Size of Capacitor [uF] if connected in Wye

Size of Capacitor [uF] if connected in Delta

Size of Reactor [mH]

Effective Filter Size Required [kVar]

OTHER RESULTS
Resistance of reactor [Ohm]

Voltage across delta connected capacitor [V]

Phase-Phase Voltage. Harmonics will cause additional voltage rise across

capacitor
Voltage across wye connected capacitor [V]

Phase-Neutral Voltage. Harmonics will cause additional voltage rise across

capacitor
Harmonic Filter Calculation
The following are the basic steps involved in design of single tuned or detuned power
system harmonic filter calculation. These passive power filters are used in control of
harmonics in industrial and commercial power systems.

Step1: Determine the capacitor size Qc (Mvar) needed to meet the reactive power
requirement of harmonic source.
Step2: Determine capacitor’s reactance.

Step3: If hn is the harmonic order that is desired to be trapped, calculate the value of
inductive reactance needed using the equation below.

Value of harmonic filter reactor can be calculated using

Step4: Find the characteristic reactance Xn and the resistance of reactor.

If Q is the filter’s desired quality factor (typically between 30-100), then the resistance
can be calculated as:

Step5: Effective filter size (Mvar) can be calculated using

Step6: Voltage appearing across capacitor is
What Is Harmonic Filter (Detuned) Reactor? Why Is
Used In Compensation Systems?
Posted on February 3, 2021 by Aktif | 3098 Views

Cihan Şenel
Technical Sales Engineer
Aktif Mühendislik
Despite being used extensively in the compensation systems of this type of reactor, which is defined
by various names such as detuned reactor, passive harmonic filter, unsteady filter, low pass band
filter, there is information pollution and misconceptions about what works. This article has been
revised to remove this fallacy and information pollution.

I. INTRODUCTION
Harmonics are unwanted electrical components that are most often spoken about in power quality
parameters and cause problems when they exist over the limits set by the standards in the electrical
system. n systems where harmonics are present, harmonic filter reactors are connected in series to
the capacitors. The main purpose is to prevent the harmonic current flowing on the capacitor and to
prevent the resonance of the system.

II. What is Harmonic Filter (Detuned) Reactor?

The harmonic filter (Detuned) reactor is a fixed impedance load in the structure of the coil calculated
according to certain calculations.

III. Why Harmonic Filter (Detuned) Reactor is used ?

The harmonic filter (Detuned) is to limit the flow of harmonic current from non-linear loads on the
reactor to the fixed impedance loads (eg capacitor).

Formula 1 – Calculation of Capacitor Impedance

If we look to the impedance equation of the capacitor, it is seen that the capacitor impedance
decreases with the increase of the frequency. In this case, the current will flow at low impedance so
that the total current on the capacitor will be equal to the sum of the nominal coupling current and the
harmonic current. An unwanted state will occur on the capacitor due to the harmonic current.
Total Current = Nominal coupling current + Harmonic coupling current

To reduce the harmonic coupling current we need to increase the line impedance to which the
capacitor is connected. As can be seen in Formula 2, the high impedance bobbin at high frequencies
is possible by connecting the capacitor in series..

Formula 2 – Calculation of Coil Impedance Formula 3

– Calculation of Total Equivalent Impedance

At this point the total impedance will be equal to the sum of the capacitor and coil impedance and the
harmonic current flowing on this arm will be reduced to the lowest level.

Harmonic Filter (Detuned) Reactors can be manufactured as single-phase or three-phase, choosing

the tuning frequency according to the dominant harmonic current order in the system according to the
bus bar voltage and capacitor impedance / power.

Harmonic filter (detuned) reactors do not destroy harmonic components in the system. It only prevents
the harmonic current from increasing in amplitude. It is a well-known misinformation to say that it
destroys harmonics in the system.

IV. What are the advantages of using Harmonic Filter

(Detuned) Reactor?
 Prevents harmonic current and voltage amplitude from increasing in systems with non-linear loads.

 Limits the harmonic current flowing on the capacitor. This prevents heat and high current stresses
and allows the capacitors to have a longer operating life.

 Prevents to overcurrent and heating problems on transformers, bus bars, cables, switchgear,
protection equipment, etc…

V. RESULT
Given the fact that almost every use of nonlinear loads increases day by day, it is important to use
harmonic filter (detuned) reactors in compensation systems.
In article” Power Factor Correction Capacitors Sizing Calculations – Part Fifteen” we
indicated that The Main Components of PFC Panel are as follows:

1- The Main Components of PFC Panel

A Panel for power factor correction (PFC Panel) is constituted

essentially from the following main components:

1. A protective device;
2. A switching device (contactor);
3. One or more capacitors suitably connected;
4. Resistors for capacitor discharge.
5. A PF controller is used In case of an automatic PF
compensation system to command switching in/off of the
capacitors.

And we explained how to select the first two items (protective devices and contactors) in
the past article. Today we will explain the following:

1. How to select a capacitor for PFC Panel and Capacitors’ rules,

2. Capacitor compensation with a detuned reactor,
3. How to Select a Detuned Reactor.

Third: How To Select A Capacitor For PFC Panel

The capacitor supplies the reactive power necessary to
increase the power factor up to the desired value. The
characteristics of a capacitor, reported on its nameplate, are:

1- Rated voltage Un;

 According to IEC 60831-1 standard, the rated voltage

(UN) of a capacitor is defined as the continuously admissible
operating voltage. Capacitors can be selected with their rated
voltage corresponding to the network voltage.
 In order to accept system voltage fluctuations,
capacitors are designed to sustain over-voltages equal to 1.1
times UN, 8h per 24h. This design margin allows operation on
networks including voltage fluctuations and common
disturbances.

Note:

 The life expectancy will be reduced if capacitors are

used at the maximum level of the working conditions.

2- The rated current (IN):

 The rated current (IN) of a capacitor is the current

flowing through the capacitor when the rated voltage (UN) is
applied at its terminals, supposing a purely sinusoidal voltage
and the exact value of reactive power (KVAR) generated.
Capacitor units shall be suitable for continuous operation at
an r.m.s. current of (1.3 x IN).

3- Rated frequency f;
4- Reactive power Qc, expressed in KVAR.

Based on operating conditions, Capacitors must be selected

according to:

1. Ambient Temperature (°C),

2. Expected over-current, related to voltage disturbances,
including maximum sustained over voltage,
3. Maximum number of switching operations/year,
4. Requested life expectancy.
5. Presence of Non-Linear loads: where detuned reactors
or filters will be used to mitigate the harmonics effects.

From the data on the nameplate it is possible to obtain the

characteristic parameters of the capacitor as follows:

1- For Single-phase circuit

Rated Icn = Qc/Vn

Current
Reactance Xc = 1 / w . C
Capacitance C = 1 / (w . Xc ) = Qc / 2 . π . f . Vn2

2- For three-phase circuit

In a three-phase circuit, the capacitors can be star or delta

connected; the following table shows the values of power and
rated current according to the connection modality.

Rated Current in Power

current the
(line) capacitor
banks
Icn = w . Ic = Icn Qc = 3 . Icn.
C . Un / Un = w . C .
√3 Un2
 Icn = 3 . Ic = w . Qc = 3 . Icn.
w . C . Un C .Un Un = 3 . w .
C . Un2

Capacitors’ Selection Rules

Rule#1: Size of capacitor bank

Capacitors are rated in KVAR. Common sizes are 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,
6, 7, 8, 10/12/15/20 and 25 KVAR at 415 or 440V alternating
current, 3 phase, 50 Hz. Usually more than one capacitor is
required to give the desired degree of power factor
correction. Groups of capacitors are factory assembled in
various configurations. Standard capacitor ratings are
designed for 50 or 60Hz operation. The following equation
defines the relation:

C= Qc x 109/ (2πfE2)
Where:
C: capacitance in Farads μF
Qc: reactive power in KVAR
π =3.1416
f: rated frequency in Hz
E: rated voltage in V

Rule#2: Size of capacitor bank for delta connected 3ph

capacitor

For delta connected 3ph capacitor, the capacitance value of a

capacitor can be calculated using following equation Assuming
that capacitance of the three delta connected capacitors are
C as shown in the figure.

C = Qc × 109 / (4πfE2)

Where:
C: capacitance in Farads μF
Qc : reactive power in KVAR
π =3.1416
f: rated frequency in Hz
E: rated voltage in V

Example#1:

15 kvar, 3 phases, 415V, 50Hz capacitor, calculate its

capacitance?

Solution:
C = Qc × 109 / (4πfE2)
C = 15 × 109 / (4 x 3.142 × 50 × (415 × 415)) = 138.62μF

Rule#3: calculation of capacitor KVAR from

measured capacitance

For three phase capacitor, KVAR calculation from the

measured capacitance value of a capacitor can be done by
using the following equation:

QM = 2/3 × (Ca + Cb + Cc) × E2 × (2πf)/ 109

Where:

QM: capacitor KVAR

Ca, Cb & Cc: capacitances measured between phases in μF
E: rated voltage in V
π =3.1416
f: rated frequency in Hz

Example#2:

Consider you have measured a capacitor rated for 440volts,

50Hz where in measured capacitance value is as follows:
197μf (between R & Y phase) - Ca
196μf (between B & Y phase) - Cb
200μf (between R & B phase) – Cc
Calculate the capacitor KVAR?

Solution:

QM = 2/3 × (Ca + Cb + Cc) × E2 × (2πf)/ 109

QM = 2/3 ×(197+196+200)×(4402 )×2×3.14×50 / 109 = 24.04
KVAR

Note:
The tolerance of capacitance of a capacitor is -5% t0 +10% of
capacitor as specified in the IEC Standards.

Rule#4: Calculation Of Rated Current For Capacitor With

Rated Supply Voltage And Frequency

The following equation will be used:

IN = KVAR x 103 / (√3 x UN)

Where:

IN: Rated current in A

UN: rated voltage in V

Example#3:

For 50 KVAR, 3 phase, 400V, 50Hz capacitor. Calculate the

rated current?

Solution:

IN = KVAR x 103 / (√3 x UN)

IN = (50 × 1000) / (1.732 × 400)
IN = 72.16 A

Rule#5: changing the operating voltage

It is necessary to note that the reactive power at the service

voltage is different from the rated power given on the
nameplate and referred to the rated voltage; as a general, if
the operating voltage is less than the rated voltage, a
reduction in the nameplate KVAR will be realized as follows:

Q supplied = Qc (Ue / Un)2

Where:

Qc is the reactive power at the rated voltage Un;

Q supplied is the effective power at the service voltage Ue.

Example#4:

A capacitor with 100 KVAR rated reactive power at 500 V,

calculate the capacitor KVAR when the applied voltage is 400
V?

Solution:

Q supplied = Qc (Ue / Un)2

2
Q supplied = 100 (400/500) = 64 KVAR

Rule#6: changing the operating voltage and frequency

The KVAR of capacitor will not be same if the measured

voltage and frequency applied to the capacitor changes, and
to calculate capacitor power in KVAR from the measured
values at site and name plate data, the following equation
will be used:

QM = ( fM / fN ) × ( UM / UN )2 × QN

Where:

QM = Available power in kvar

fM = Measured frequency in Hz
fN = Rated Frequency in Hz
UM = Measured voltage in V
UN = Rated Voltage in V
QN = Rated power in kvar

Example#5:

Name plate details: 15kvar, 3 phases, 440V, 50Hz capacitor.

Measured voltage 425V and measured frequency - 48.5Hz,
calculate the change in capacitor KVAR?

Solution:
QM = (fM / fN ) × ( UM / UN )2 × QN
QM = (48.5/50) × (425 / 440)2 × 15 = 13.57kvar.

Also, the current of capacitor will not be same if voltage

applied to the capacitor and frequency changes, and to
calculate the capacitor current from the measured values at
site and name plate data, the following equation will be used:

IM = IR (UM x fM) / (UR x FR)

Where:

IM = Capacitor Current
IR = Rated Current
UM = Measured Voltage
fM = Measured frequency
UR = Rated Voltage
FR = Rated Frequency

Note:
Please ensure that the measurement at site is done using true
RMS clamp meter.

Example#6:

Consider a capacitor of 15 KVAR, 440V, 50 Hz, 3 Phase

Capacitor Rated Current from name plate 19.68A and
Measured Values are: Voltage 425V, Frequency 49.5 Hz,
calculate the capacitor current?

Solution:

IM = IR (UM x fM) / (UR x FR) = 19.68 x(425 x 48.5) / (440 x

50) = 18.43A

Rule#7: Calculating Capacitor KVAR for three-phase

capacitor with filter reactors

The following equation will be used:

Qc = C.3.V2.2. π.fn / (1-p)

Where:
Qc: capacitor KVAR
C: capacitance in μF
V: rated voltage in V
π = 3.1412
fn: rated frequency
P: blocking factor

n: tuning number, n = fr/fn

p (as a %): blocking factor; this is the ratio between the

reactor inductance XL compared to the capacitor inductance
XC. It will be calculated from the following equation:

p = XL/XC = 1/n2 = (fn/fr)2

Where:

fn: fundamental frequency

fr: Harmonic frequency

Example#7:

For 3 phase capacitor with detuned reactor , the capacitance

equal 3 x 332 μF at 400 V /50 Hz with blocking factor p = 7%.
Calculate the capacitor KVAR.

Solution:

Qc = C.3.V2.2. π.fn / (1-p)

Qc = 0.000332 x 3 x 400² x 2 x 3.1416 x 50 / (1-0.07) = 53.8
KVAR

We can also use the following equation for Calculating

effective Capacitor KVAR for three-phase capacitor with filter
reactors:

Where:
Qs: the effective Capacitor KVAR using detuned reactor
Us: service voltage
Un: nameplate voltage of the capacitor
Qn: nameplate KVAR of the capacitor
P: blocking factor

In this case, using a reactor creates a voltage surge on the

terminals of the associated capacitor and the capacitor power
supply voltage Uc will be calculated as follows:

Uc = Us / (1-p)

Note:
We should choose a capacitor with nominal voltage Un higher
than Uc.

Example#8:

A capacitor with nominal power of 25 KVAR at 480 V,

calculate the effective Capacitor KVAR if a detuned reactor
will be used at 400 V. noting that p =14%.

Solution:

1- Determine the capacitor power supply voltage:

Uc = Us / (1-p)= 400 / (1-0.14) = 465 V

2- Calculate the effective Capacitor KVAR at 400 V:

Capacitor Compensation With A Detuned Reactor

Functions of Detuned Reactor

On mains supplies with a high level of harmonic pollution, it is recommended to
use capacitor banks with detuned reactors which have the following functions:

1. Increasing the capacitor impedance in relation to the harmonic currents,

2. Shifting the parallel resonance frequency of the source and the capacitor
to below the main frequencies of the harmonic currents that are causing
interference.

The below outline diagram represents an electrical installation with capacitor

bank, reactor impedance and a load that generates harmonics, the detuned
reactors function will change according to the frequency as follows:

1. The detuned reactor and capacitor assembly is capacitive for frequencies

below fr, so allows reactive energy compensation.
2. The detuned reactor and capacitor assembly is inductive, so prevents
amplification of the harmonics.
Note:
The serial frequency (fr) chosen must be below the first harmonic order present
in the circuit.

The most commonly used reactor tuning frequencies are:

Tuning number (n)

Tuning frequency (Hz) * Blocking factor (P %)
215 5.4 4.3
189 7 3.78
135 14 2.7

*With network frequency 50 Hz,

Where:

n: tuning number, n = fr/fn

p (as a %): blocking factor; this is the ratio between the reactor inductance XL
compared to the capacitor inductance XC. It will be calculated from the
following equation:

p = XL/XC = 1/n2 = (fn/fr)2

Where:

fn: fundamental frequency

fr: Harmonic frequency

When/How to Use Detuned Reactor

To use a detuned reactor, you need to make a correct

assessment of the risks of capacitor bank resonance in your
installation, we recommend the following procedure:

1. Take measurements over a significant period (minimum

one week) of the voltages, currents, power factor, level of
harmonics (individual and global THD-U/THD-I).
2. Size the capacitor bank appropriately for its reactive
energy compensation requirements, based on these
measurements and your electricity bills.
3. For each step power rating (physical or electrical) to be
provided in the capacitor bank, calculate the resonance
harmonic orders: where S is the short-circuit power at the
capacitor bank connection point, and Q is the power rating for
the step concerned.
4. If one of the calculated harmonic orders corresponds to
one of the harmonics in the installation (with accuracy of ±10
%), it may be necessary to use detuned reactors in order to
shift the resonance to a harmless frequency range.

How to Select a Detuned Reactor

First: For 3 Phase Capacitors

The reactor value (inductance per phase) L is calculated from

the following equation:
Where:

L: The reactor value (inductance per phase) in Henry H

Us: service voltage
P: blocking factor
Qs: the effective Capacitor KVAR using detuned reactor
Un: nameplate voltage of the capacitor
Qn: nameplate KVAR of the capacitor
ω=2πf

And the current IL in the reactor will be calculated from the

following equation:

IL = Qs / √3 Us

Example#9:

Use the same data from Example#8; calculate the reactor

inductance value (per phase) and the reactor current.

Solution:

1- the reactor inductance value (per phase)

2- the reactor current

IL = Qs / √3 Us = 20000 / √3 x 400 = 28.9 A

 Second: For 3 Single Phase Capacitors

The reactor value (inductance per phase) L is calculated from

the following equation:

Where:

L: The reactor value (inductance per phase) in Henry H

Us: service voltage
P: blocking factor
Qs: the effective Capacitor KVAR using detuned reactor
Un: nameplate voltage of the capacitor
Qn: nameplate KVAR of the capacitor
ω=2πf

And the current IL in the reactor will be calculated from the

following equation:

IL = Qs / 3 Us

Example#10:

A capacitor with nominal power of 25 KVAR at 480 V,

calculate the effective Capacitor KVAR if a detuned reactor
will be used at 400 V. noting that p =14%.

Solution:

1- The reactor inductance value (per phase)

 2- The reactor current

IL = Qs / √3 Us = 20000 / 3 x 400 = 16.6 A

In the next article, we will explain how to choose Resistors, PF Controllers and Cables
for Power Factor Correction Capacitors Calculators. Please, keep following.

Today, we will explain the power factor compensation in case of harmonics distortion.
 Linear and Non-Linear Loads

Electrical loads can be categorized to Linear and non-linear loads as follows:

1- Linear loads

 Linear loads occur when the impedance is constant; which implies the current is
proportional to the voltage. a straight-line graph as shown in the figure-1 below.
 Simple loads, composed of one of the elements (Resistors only or inductors only or
capacitors only) do not produce harmonics.

Fig.1: Linear loads

2- Non-linear loads

 Non-linear loads occur when the impedance is not constant; then the current is not
proportional to the voltage. as shown in the figure-2 below.
 Combinations of the components normally create non-linear loads and harmonics.
 Fig.2: Non-linear loads

 The non-linear loads (electronic systems) dramatically increase harmonic noise on the
line side of the power distribution plant which impacts the whole electrical distribution system.
Typical examples of non-linear loads (harmonic sources) are:

Computers

Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)

Solid-state rectifiers

Electronic process control equipment, PLC’s,

etc
1- Electronic Switching Power Converters
Electronic lighting ballasts, including light
dimmer

Neon SCR controlled equipment

Reduced voltage motor controllers

DC drives

Discharge lighting, e.g. Fluorescent, Sodium

and Mercury vapor

2- Arcing Devices Arc furnaces

Welding equipment

Electrical traction system

Transformers operating near saturation level

Magnetic ballasts (Saturated Iron core)

3- Ferromagnetic Devices
Induction heating equipment

Chokes

4- Appliances TV sets, air conditioners, washing machines,

 microwave ovens & vacuum cleaners

Fax machines, photocopiers, printers

 Non-linear loads inject non-sinusoidal currents into the network. These currents are
formed by a 50 Hz or 60 Hz fundamental component, (as well as a DC component in some cases),
plus a series of overlaid currents with frequencies which are multiples of the fundamental
frequency which known as harmonics.

Effects Of Harmonics On The Electrical Power System

Harmonics have detrimental effect on the electrical power system in a

facility. Examples of Harmonic Distortion Problems are shown in below
table-1:uipment Consequences

Equipment Consequence

Current Harmonic Distortion Problems

Capacitors Blown fuses, reduced capacitor life

Motors Reduced motor life, inability to fully

load motor

Fuses/breakers False/spurious operation, damaged

components

Transformers Increased copper losses, reduced

capacity

Voltage Harmonic Distortion Problems

Transformers Increased noise, possible insulation

failure

Motors Mechanical fatigue

Electronic loads Mis-operation

Table-1: Negative Consequences of Harmonics on Equipment

If any of these conditions exist in your facility, an analysis of your system
must be done.

For more information about harmonics, please review our

article” Electrical Load Classification and Types – Part Three ”

Harmonics Effects On Power Factor Capacitors

 With non-linear loads it is extremely difficult to correct for poor

power factor without increasing existing harmonic distortion.
 The harmonics lead to a higher capacitor current, because the
higher frequencies are attracted to the capacitor. The impedance of the
capacitor decreases as the frequency increases. If the frequency of such a
resonating circuit is close enough to a harmonic frequency, the resulting
circuit amplifies the oscillation and leads to over-currents and over-
voltages.
 Capacitors themselves do not generate harmonics, but under
certain conditions they can amplify existing harmonics. Necessary
precautions must be undertaken when selecting the capacitors.
 To minimize the occurrence of harmonic resonance, the resonant
harmonic of the system including the capacitor should be estimated.
 The resonant frequency can be calculated from the following
formula:


f = fp √(Psc/Pc)

where:

f = resonant frequency,

fp = power frequency,

Psc = short circuit power of the transformer (kVA),

Pc = power of the capacitor (kVAR).

If the frequency obtained is too close to that of a harmonic, the value of

the capacitor rating should be modified. Most common harmonic
frequencies, 3rd, 5th, 7th, etc...

Example#1:

for the following transformer:

S = 630 KVA

Usc = 6%

P = 500 KW

Qc = 275 kVAr

Calculate the resonant frequency.

Solution:

The short-circuit power is: Ssc = S x 100 / Usc = 630 x 100 / 6 = 10500 KVA

The resonance frequency will therefore be:

f = fp √(Psc/Pc) = 50 x √(10500/275) = 308.96 Hz

The system will resonate at order n = f/ fp = 6.18

Notes:

 In three-phase, low-voltage systems, harmonic values of 5, 7, 11,

13, 17, 19 etc. should be avoided as they correspond to the characteristic
harmonics of non-linear loads. This includes all of the odd harmonics
except for the multiples of 3. Examples of such devices are variable-speed
and variable-frequency ac drives, dc drives, three-phase power-controlled
furnaces and many other types of industrial equipment.
 In single-phase, low-voltage systems, generally exhibit the
following harmonics: 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 etc. Note that this includes all of
the odd harmonics. Examples of such devices are those usually powered by
‘switch mode power supplies’, which include personal computers,
fluorescent lighting, and a myriad of other equipment found in the modern
office. It also includes equipment found in hospitals, TV and radio
stations, and control rooms of large processing plants. The harmonics from
these devices are generally richest at the third harmonic and continually
decrease as the harmonic number increases.

Harmonic Limits in Electric Power Systems (IEEE 519-2014)

Harmonic limitations have been established by IEEE 519 2014 for the
following reasons:

1. To limit the damage to power factor correction capacitors and

harmonic filter systems caused by excessive harmonics.
2. To prevent series or parallel resonance in the electrical system.
3. To keep the level of harmonics at the PCC (Point of Common
Coupling) from being excessive and distorting the system voltage and
damaging other equipment on the system.

The PCC is defined as the electrical connecting point or interface between

the utility distribution system and the customer's electrical distribution
system.

The harmonic voltage limitations set forth by IEEE 519-2014 for Bus
voltage V at PCC ≤ 1.0 kV are:

 Maximum Individual Frequency Voltage Harmonic: 5%

 Total Harmonic Distortion of the Voltage: 8%

For other voltage ratings, please see below table-2:

Individual Total harmonic

Bus voltage V at PCC
harmonic (%) distortion THD (%)

V ≤ 1.0 kV 5.0 8.0

1 kV < V ≤ 69 kV 3.0 5.0

69 kV < V ≤ 161 kV 1.5 2.5

161 kV < V 1.0 1.5a

 Table 2: Voltage distortion limits

Notes to Table-2:

 a
A High-voltage systems can have up to 2.0% THD where the cause
is an HVDC terminal whose effects will have attenuated at points in the
network where future users may be connected.
 All values should be in percent of the rated power frequency
voltage at the PCC. Table-2 applies to voltage harmonics whose
frequencies are integer multiples of the power frequency.

Options to Reduce Harmonics for PFCC

Harmonic levels that exceed the recommended values set forth by IEEE
519-2014 should be addressed through harmonic filtering. Failure to
address these harmonic issues may lead to problems on the electrical
distribution system, such as those detailed above. For PFCC, the resonant
harmonics can be avoided in several ways:

1. Change the applied KVAR to avoid unwanted harmonics,

2. Add harmonic filters,
3. Add blocking inductors (detuned reactors),
4. Change the method of KVAR compensation (harmonic filter, active
filter, etc.).

1- Change the applied KVAR to avoid unwanted harmonics

 Although this is the least expensive way to avoid resonant

harmonics, it is not always successful because typically some portion of
the applied KVAR is switched on and off as load conditions require.
 The calculation of system harmonics should be repeated for each
 level of compensation. Adjusting the size of the capacitor(s) may be
necessary to avoid the harmonic values.

2- Add Harmonic Filters

 In order to filter harmonics at a specific site, tuned harmonic filters can be applied.
 A capacitor is connected in series with an inductor such that the resonant frequency of
the filter equals the harmonic to be eliminated.
 Tuned filters should never be applied without a detailed analysis of the system. The
currents expected to flow in the filter are difficult to predict and are a complex function of the
system and load characteristics.

There are 3 types of filters:

1. Passive filter,
2. Active filter,
3. Hybrid filter.

1- Passive filter
 Passive filter

 This is an LC circuit tuned to a harmonic frequency to be filtered. This filter, mounted

on a bypass circuit, absorbs the harmonics and prevents them from flowing in the power supply.
However, for a significant reduction of the THD on several harmonic orders, several branch filter
circuits will be necessary.
 Passive filters, which are defined on a case by case basis, according to a particular
harmonic to be filtered, are cost-effective and easy to be connected and put into function.

2- Active filter
 This is an electronic power system designed to compensate either the harmonic voltage
or the harmonic currents generated by the load. This filter re-injects, in phase-opposition, the
harmonics present on the load's power supply so that the current in the line becomes sinusoidal.
 The active filter has many advantages as follows:

1. Filtering simultaneously dozens of harmonics and does not involve design costs for
dimensioning.
2. They continue to guarantee efficient harmonic compensation even when changes are
made to the installation.
3. Auto-configuration to harmonic loads whatever their order of magnitude
4. Elimination of overload risks
5. Compatibility with electrical generator sets
6. Connection to any point of the electrical network
7. Several conditioners can be used in the same installation to increase depollution
efficiency (for example when a new machine is installed)
8. Active filters may provide also power factor correction.

3- Hybrid filter

 This involves a combination of the two Passive & Active filters described above for a
broad power range.
 Hybrid filter

2.1 Choosing The Optimum Filter

Table-3 below shows the criteria that can be taken into account to select
the most suitable technology depending on the application.
 Passive
Active filter Hybrid filter
filter

Applications with total Industrial Tertiary Industrial

power of non-linear loads
(variable speed drive, greater
lower than 200 greater than
UPS, rectifier…) than 200
kVA 200 kVA
kVA

Power factor correction √ No √

Necessity of reducing the

harmonic distortion in
√ √ √
voltage for sensitive
loads

Necessity of reducing the

harmonic distortion in
current to avoid cable √ √ √

overload

Necessity of being in
accordance with strict
No √ √
limits of harmonic
rejected

Table-3: Choosing the optimum filter

2.2 Where to install your filter?

To choose the most suitable location to connect a filter in an installation,

you must take into account:

1. The type of disturbance present on the installation, which defines

the type of filter to be installed.
2. The configuration of the installation:
3. Existence of capacitor banks
4. Existence of major loads causing disturbance
5. Power and location of the lighting and computer lines.

There are 3 points in an installation where you can connect filtering

equipment in order to eliminate disturbances:
 1- On the low-voltage general switchboard (LVGS)

 When the disturbances have been eliminated or attenuated

directly at the level of the loads or at the level of the secondary
switchboards, the remaining residual disturbances can be eliminated by
connecting filtering equipment on the general switchboard.
 In this way, it is possible to ensure that the electrical signal is in a
satisfactory state at the point of connection with the energy supplier.

2- On the secondary switchboard

 When there are various low-power loads connected to the

secondary distribution switchboard.
 Elimination of the disturbances prevents discharging of the lines
connected to the general switchboard.

3- On the terminals of the load generating harmonics

 This is the best solution for eliminating the disturbance directly at

the point where it is generated, thus preventing propagation to all the
lines in the electrical installation.

3- Add blocking inductors (detuned reactors)

 The most common solution, as illustrated in the Std. IEC 61642,

consists in connecting in series an inductive reactance with the capacitor
(detuning reactance); the inductor shall be sized so that a resonance
frequency which is below the lowest frequency of the harmonic voltage in the
network is achieved.
 Detuned Reactors

 Inductors added to the lines feeding the capacitor can be sized to

block higher than 4th harmonic currents. This method protects the capacitor
from the harmonics but does not eliminate the harmonics from the system. A
system study is required to determine correct ratings for the capacitor and
inductors.

3.1 Choice Of Detuned Reactor Tuning Frequency

The detuned reactor, 400 V, 50 Hz range offers a wide selection of tuning

frequencies: 135, 190 or 215 Hz. Tuning frequency of the reactor capacitor
must be chosen according to:

1. The harmonic frequencies present on the installation (tuning

frequency must always be lower than the harmonic spectrum)
2. The remote control frequencies, if any, used by electrical utilities,
3. Presence of zero-sequence harmonics (3, 9, …),
4. Need for reduction of the harmonic distortion level,
5. Optimization of the capacitor and reactor components,
6. Frequency of ripple control system if any.

Tuning frequency of the reactor capacitor can be selected from the below
table-4:

harmonic
generators remote control frequency (Ft)
(Gh)

165 < Ft≤ 250 < Ft≤

none Ft > 350 Hz
250 Hz 350 Hz

three-phase: tuning tuning tuning tuning

frequency frequency frequency frequency
variable
speed drives, 135 Hz 135 Hz 190 Hz 215 Hz
rectifiers,
190 Hz
UPS, starters
215 Hz *

single-phase tuning tuning tuning tuning

(Gh 1Ph > 10 frequency frequency frequency frequency
% Sn):
135 Hz 135 Hz 135 Hz 135 Hz
discharge
lamps, lamps
with
electronic
ballast,

fluorescent
lamps, UPS,

variable
speed drives,
welding
machines

Table-4: DR, 400 V, 50 Hz tuning frequency selection

* Recommended tuning frequency, allowing a greater reduction in 5th

order harmonic pollution than the other tuning frequencies.

Gh 1Ph: power of single-phase harmonic generators in kVA.

Relation between tuning frequency, tuning order and relative

impedance:

The most common values of relative impedance are 5.7, 7 and 14%. (14% is
used with high level of 3rd harmonic voltages).

The tuning frequency can be expressed by the relative impedance of the

reactor (in %), or by the tuning order, or directly in Hz.

Tuning Tuning Tuning

Relative impedance order frequency frequency
(%)
@50Hz (Hz) @60Hz (Hz)

4.2
5.7 210 250

7
3.8 190 230

14
2.7 135 160

Power Factor Compensation In Case Of Harmonics

Generally, and from the past articles, we can say that we have 3 general
methods of PF compensation according to the level of network harmonic
pollution as follows:

1. Standard compensation,
2. Overrated compensation,
3. Detuned compensation.

The selection between the above methods can be made based on the
following two criteria:

1. From the Gh/Gn ratio,

2. From the THD(I) current total harmonic distortion measured.
 1- From the Gh/Gn ratio

Considering the following parameters:

 Sn : transformer apparent power

 Gh : apparent power of loads generating harmonics (variable
speed motors, static converters, power electronics, etc.)
 Qc : compensation equipment power
 U : network voltage

So, the following table can be applied:

Gh/Gn value Compensation equipment type

< 15% standard type

15 : 25% Overrated type

> 25% detuned type *

> 60% detuned type + harmonics filtering **

* Please check that the de-tuned capacitor bank does not interfere with
telecommunication frequency used by the utilities

** requires a harmonic filtering study.

Example#2:

Select the best compensation method For The following parameters:

U = 400 V

Sn = 800 kVA
In the following cases:

Case#1: P = 450 kW and Gh = 50 kVA

Case#2: P = 300 kW and Gh = 150 kVA

Case#3: P = 100 kW and Gh = 400 kVA

Solution:

For case#1:

Gh/ Sn = 6.2 %

Use Standard type equipment

For case#2:

Gh/ Sn = 18.75 %

Use Overrated type equipment

For case#3:

Gh/ Sn = 50 %

Use Detuned type equipment

2- From the THD(I) current total harmonic distortion measured

Considering the following parameters:

Sn = transformer apparent power

S = load in kVA at the transformer secondary at the time of measurement

So, the following table can be applied:

THD(I) x S/ Sn < 5 % Use Standard type equipment

 5 % < THD(I) x S/ Sn < 10 % Use Overrated type equipment

10 % < THD(I) x S/ Sn < 20 % Use Detuned type equipment

Notes:

 Harmonics must be measured at the transformer secondary, at full

load and without capacitors.
 Apparent power must be taken into account at the time of
measurement.

In the next article, we will explain the (3) Famous Power Factor Correction Capacitors
Calculators. Please, keep following.

Today, we will continue explaining the technical part for Power Factor Correction
Capacitors Sizing Calculations. We will explain the following topics:

 What causes low power factor?

 Bad impacts of low power factor,
 Benefits of Power Factor correction.
 1- What causes Low Power Factor?

There are many causes for getting a low power factor for
some equipments as follows:
1. Equipment Design,
2. Operating Conditions.

1.A Equipment Design

A low power factor can be a result of the design of the equipment for
example:
1. Welder’s construction which needs very high reactive power to work.
2. Traditional motors designs have a lower power factor than the energy
efficient electric motors that are available today.
3. Traditional electromagnetic ballasts have a lower power factor than
the electronic ballasts

1.B Operating Conditions

The following operating conditions will affect the value of PF:

1. Loading,
2. Line voltage.

1.B.1 Loading
The power factor of an electrical motor reaches its maximum
value under full load. The power factor decreases rapidly
when the load decreases. Fig.1 below illustrates the effect of
the loading on a motor’s power factor and Table-1 gives
values of PF for different motor loading factors.
 Fig.1: effect of the loading on a motor’s power factor

Motor Load Factor Power Factor

Unloaded 17%
1
/4 Loaded 55%
½ Loaded 73%
¾ Loaded 80%
Fully Loaded 84%
Overloaded (25%) 86%
Table-1: values of PF for different motor loading factors.

1.B.2 Line voltage

Increasing the line voltage on motors and transformers above

the rated voltage will increase the consumption of reactive
energy. The result will be reduction of power factor. For
example, an increase of 10% on the rated voltage can result in
20% reduction of the power factor.
 2- Bad Impacts of Low Power Factor

There are many bad impacts of low power factor as follows:

1. Loss in efficiency of the equipment,
2. Loss in distribution capacity,
3. Larger Investment for future Expansion,
4. Increase the running costs of the installation.

2.1 Loss in efficiency of the equipment

When an installation operates with a low power factor, the amount of useful
power available inside the installation at the distribution transformers is
considerably reduced due to the amount of reactive energy that the
transformers have to carry. In this case, we say that there is a loss in the
efficiency of the transformer.
Fig.2 below indicates the available actual power of distribution equipment
designed to supply power to 1000 KW installation.
 Fig.2

So, if you have distribution equipment designed to supply a 1000 KW installation

at PF=1, the same equipment will supply only 80% of the power (800 KW) for the
same installation at PF=0.8. The loss in the efficiency of the distribution
equipment in this case will be 20%.

2.2 Loss in distribution capacity

In general terms, as the power factor of a three phase system decreases the
current rises. The heat dissipation in the system rises proportionately by a
factor equivalent to the square of the current rise.
Fig.3 below graphically displays the variation of the I2R losses in feeders and
branches. Losses are expressed in percent as a function of power factor.
 Fig.3

2.3 Larger Investment for future Expansion

In case of expansion, a larger investment is required in the equipment

needed to increase distribution capability of the installation, such as
oversized transformers, cables and switchgears.

2.3.A Transformers

For an installation which requires 800KW, the transformer should be

approximately:
 800KVA if power factor = 1
 1000 KVA if power factor = 0.8
 1600 KVA if power factor = 0.5
Low power factor means you’re not fully utilizing the electrical power you’re
paying for. Another way to look at it is that at 0.5 power factor, it takes
100% more KVA to do the same work when power factor = 1.

This means that with a high power factor, the effective capacity of your
local electricity network potentially deferring future investment in electrical
infrastructure and allowing you to connect more machinery to the same
utility connection.

2.3.B Large size conductors

Fig.4 below shows a variation of a cross section of a conductor as a function

of the power factor for a given useful power. This illustrates that when the
power factor of an installation is low, the surcharge on the electricity bill is
only part of the problem.

Fig.4
So, for an installation with a power factor = 0.7, the cross-section of the
conductor must be twice as large as it would be if the power factor =1.

2.4 Increase the running costs of the installation

The running costs of an installation with low power factor will be increased
due to the following reasons:

 A ‘poor power factor penalty’ from the supplier, sometimes called a

‘reactive power charge’ will be applied,
 Draws more power from the network to compensate for the reactive
power and achieve the same tasks will increase your electricity bill,
 It can reduce the life expectancy of electrical equipment in extreme
cases.

3- Benefits of Power Factor correction

There are many benefits of power factor correction like:

1. Increase the efficiency of distribution equipment,

2. Release more system capacity to connect additional loads,
3. Reduced power losses,
4. Voltage improvement Due to Reduced Line Voltage Drop,
5. Reduction in Size of Transformers, Cables and Switchgear in New
Installations and Less Investment.

3.1 Increase the efficiency of distribution equipment

If the efficiency of a distribution equipment = Active power used by

equipment /equipment’s total working power ---- (equation-1)

And

Equipment’s total working power = Active power used by equipment +

Reactive power produced in equipment ----- (equation-2)

So, in equation-2, if we decrease/ compensate for the reactive power by

increasing the PF, the equipment’s total working power will be decreased
when Active power used by equipment is fixed. Hence, from equation-1, the
efficiency of the equipment will be increased.

Decreasing the total power will make good savings in the utility bill.

Example#1:

Table-2 shows 600 KW working power vs KVA required for different power
factors

Power
0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1
factor
Active
600 KW 600 KW 600 KW 600 KW 600 KW
power
Reactive 800 612 450 291
0 KVAR
power KVAR KVAR KVAR KVAR
Total 1000
875 KVA 750 KVA 667 KVA 600 KVA
power KVA
Table-2

3.2 Release more system capacity to connect additional loads

When power factor capacitors are located at the terminals of an inductive

load, they will deliver all or most of the reactive power required by the
load. This means a reduction in system current will occur, permitting
additional load to be connected to the system without increasing the size of
the transformers, switchboards and other distribution equipment.

Table-3 shows the increased available power at the transformer output by

improvement of Power Factor from 0.7 to 1.

Increased available
Power factor
power
0.7 0%
0.8 +14%
0.85 +21%
0.9 +28%
0.95 +36%
1 +43%
Table-3

Often, this release in the system capacity is reason enough to warrant an

improvement in power factor. Especially when conductors or panels are
overheating or where overcurrent devices frequently opened.

The percent released capacity resulting from an improvement in PF is:

% released system capacity = 100 x (1 – PFO / PFf)

Where:
PFO = original power factor before improvement,
PFf = final power factor after improvement.
Example#2:

Determine the system capacity released by improving power factor from 0.5
to 0.8.

Solution:

% released system capacity = 100 x (1 – PFO / PFf)

% released system capacity = 100 x (1 – 0.5 / 0.8) = 37.5 %

This means that the KVA load or line current is reduced by 37.5% of what it
was before PF correction which means that we add 37.5% KVA capacity to
the system without exceeding the total power used by the system before PF
correction.

Also, we can get % released system capacity by using Laws as follows:

KVA Released = kW (1/ PFO - 1/ PFf)

% KVA Released = KVA Released / KVA Original

Example#3:

Calculate the system capacity released for above example using Laws noting
that the load is 200 KW.

Solution:

From laws:
KVA Released = kW (1/ PFO - 1/ PFf) = 200 (1/0.5 – 1/0.8) = 200 x 0.75 = 150 KVA

Initial KVA = 200 KW/0.5 = 400 KVA

% released system capacity = 150/400 = 37.5% which is the same answer in

above example.

Also, from the following fig.5 you can find the KVA Released factor for any
power factor improvement.
 Fig.5

Example#4:

From example#3, determine the %KVA Released

Solution:

KVA Released factor = 0.75

KVA Released = 200 KW x 0.75 = 150 KVA
Initial KVA = 200 KW/0.5 = 400 KVA
% released system capacity = 150/400 = 37.5% which is the same answer in
above example.
Another curve (Fig.6) can be used to find the % reduction in current for any
power factor improvement.

Fig.6

Example#5:

Determine the system capacity released by improving power factor from 0.7
to 0.95.

Solution:
% released system capacity = 100 x (1 – PFO / PFf)
% released system capacity = 100 x (1 – 0.7 / 0.95) = 27 %

From the curve you can get the same answer.

3.3 Reduced power losses

For the older power system networks, the kilowatt losses (I 2R) can account for
2 to 5 % of the total load. Since the power losses are proportional to I 2 and
the current is inversely proportional to PF, so an improvement in power
factor will cause a reduction in system current, a reduction in system losses
and reduced power bills.

This reduction can be approximated as:

% loss reduction in power = 100 x (1 – PFO2 / PFf2)

Where:
PFO = original power factor before improvement,
PFf = final power factor after improvement.

From the following curve (Fig.7) you can find the % reduction in losses for any
power factor improvement.
 Fig.7

Example#6:

Improve power factor from 70 percent to 95 percent, calculate the reduction

in power losses.

Solution:

% loss reduction in power = 100 x (1 – PFO2 / PFf2)

% loss reduction in power = 100 x (1 –0.72 / 0.952) = 46%

From the above curve, you can get the same solution.
Also, you can calculate the reduction in power losses at transformers from
the following curve (Fig.8):

Fig.8

Where:
3= transformer with normal losses
2= transformer with reduced losses
1= transformer with low losses

In any transformer, there are two types of losses:

1. Iron (or core losses) power dissipated in the transformer under no load
conditions,
2. Copper (or winding losses).
Example#7:

500 kVA Transformer with Actual load 300 kW, if we correct PF from 0.7 to
0.95, calculate the % reduction in power losses.

Solution:

Situation before power factor correction:

Iron losses: 1150 kW (independent of PF) from above curve

Copper losses = 6000* (actual load/rated load)² = 6000* (300/0.7 / 500)² =
4410 W

Situation after power factor correction to 0.9:

Iron losses = 1150 kW (independent of PF) from above curve
Copper losses = 6000* (300/0.95 / 500)² = 2393.35 W

Reduction in Copper losses = 4410 – 2393.35 = 2016.65 W

%Reduction in power losses = 2016.65 / 4410 =45.7%

The same result we got it from above example#6.

3.4 Voltage improvement Due to Reduced Line Voltage Drop

When capacitors are added to the power system, the voltage level will
increase. The percent voltage rise associated with an improvement in PF can
be approximated as:

% voltage rise = (capacitor KVAR x Transformer % IZ) / Transformer KVA

Where:
Transformer % IZ = Transformer impedance % from nameplate.

From the following curve (fig.9) you can find the % voltage drop for any
power factor improvement.
 Fig.9

Example#8:

Improve power factor from 60 percent to 90 percent, calculate the reduction

in voltage drop.

Solution:

From the above curve, at PF = 0.6 the, Voltage drop = 5.1%

And at PF = 0.9, the voltage drop = 3.6%
So, the reduction in voltage drop = 5.1-3.6 = 1.5%

Notes:

1. This benefit will result in more efficient performance of motors and

other electrical equipment.
2. Under normal operating conditions, the percent voltage rise will be
only a few percent. Therefore, voltage improvement shouldn’t be regarded as
a primary consideration for PF correction.
 3.5 Reduction in Size of Transformers, Cables and Switchgear in New
Installations and Less Investment

Installing power factor correction equipment allows the conductors cross-section

to be reduced, since less current is absorbed by the compensated installation for
the same active power.

Fig-10 below represents the increasing size of conductors required to carry the
same 100 KW at various power factors.

Fig-10

So, for an installation with a 100 KW load, at a power factor = 1, the cross-
section of the conductor is half size as it would be if the power factor =0.7.
This will lead to less Investment for new installations.

Finally, Fig-11 below summarizes the benefits of power factor correction.

 Fig-10

In the next article, we will continue explaining the technical part for Power Factor
Correction Capacitors Sizing Calculations. Please, keep following.