Evaluation of harmonic current reduction for the purpose of energy savings — A case study

Abstract

This article evaluates the method of reducing power loss due to 3rd harmonic currents in a building that contains a significant level of electronic loads, by placing a passive filter in the neutral path. The initial power loss is obtained through current measurements in the phase and neutral conductors and knowledge of the resistance of these conductors and that of the transformer serving the facility. PSpice simulations are performed to determine the most suitable RL-C filter to minimize this loss. The losses are found to be not that significant due to existing reinforcements in the distribution circuit. The effect of filter placement on voltage distortion and capacitor resonance with the transformer leakage inductance are addressed.