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What Are Harmonics?
what-are-harmonics

Harmonics are distorted voltage or current waveforms caused by non-linear electrical loads. Instead of a clean sine wave (like in pure 50/60 Hz systems), harmonics introduce additional frequencies that are multiples of the fundamental frequency (e.g., 150 Hz, 250 Hz...).

Common Sources of Harmonics:

  • LED lighting with dimmers
  • Variable frequency drives (VFDs)
  • UPS systems
  • Switch-mode power supplies (laptops, chargers)
  • Office equipment (computers, printers)
  • Elevators and HVAC systems

Harmonics Can Cause:

SymptomUnderlying Effect
🔥 Unexplained overheatingExcessive current on transformers/motors
💰 Higher electricity billsReduced power factor and energy efficiency
🧯 Circuit breaker trippingOvercurrent due to waveform distortion
⚙️ Equipment malfunctionSensitive gear (like PLCs, sensors) misreads signals
🛠️ Increased maintenance costsPremature aging of equipment
🏭 Production interruptionsShutdowns due to protection relay activation

How to Detect & Solve Harmonics:

Detection Tools:

  • Power quality analyzers
  • Harmonic meters
  • Smart energy monitoring systems

Mitigation Methods:

  • Passive filters (tuned to specific harmonic orders) 
  • Active harmonic filters (dynamic response)
  • Line reactors/chokes on drives
  • Isolation transformers
  • Power factor correction with detuned capacitors





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