Harmonic Simulation Study & Analysis

About the Service

A Harmonic Simulation Study helps identify and solve issues caused by electrical harmonics—those hidden power disturbances that can damage equipment, cause overheating, and reduce system efficiency. Using detailed modeling and advanced simulation tools, we analyze how harmonics flow through your system and help you fix them before they cost you.

Professional harmonic simulation study analysis utilizes advanced computer modeling and frequency domain calculations to evaluate power quality conditions throughout electrical systems. Harmonic distortion assessment identifies sources of power quality degradation, quantifies harmonic levels, and develops mitigation strategies to ensure optimal electrical system performance and IEEE 519 compliance.

Comprehensive power quality analysis encompasses total harmonic distortion measurements, individual harmonic distortion evaluation, harmonic filter design, and equipment impact assessment. Harmonic simulation studies provide essential information for maintaining power quality standards, protecting sensitive equipment, and ensuring efficient electrical system operation.

Our Clients

Why choose us

We turn complex harmonic data into simple, actionable insights—helping you stay efficient, compliant, and protected.

Standards-Based Accuracy

We follow IEEE and IEC standards to ensure compliance. Professional harmonic analysis follows established IEEE 519 and IEC 61000 standards ensuring accurate assessment and reliable compliance verification. Standards-based methodology provides consistent results and regulatory compliance while enabling effective comparison with power quality requirements and utility interconnection standards.

Visual Clarity

Get easy-to-read reports with waveform and spectrum plots. Professional harmonic analysis reporting includes comprehensive visual documentation with time-domain waveforms, frequency spectrum plots, and harmonic bar charts for clear understanding of power quality conditions. Visual presentation enables immediate identification of harmonic issues and effective communication of findings to facility personnel and management.

Smart Violation Alerts

Know exactly when and where harmonic issues arise. Intelligent harmonic monitoring systems provide automated alerts when harmonic distortion levels exceed IEEE 519 limits or equipment tolerance thresholds. Smart monitoring enables proactive power quality management and rapid response to harmonic problems before equipment damage occurs.

Equipment-Specific Modeling

Analyze real-world harmonic effects from drives, inverters, and more. Comprehensive harmonic modeling includes detailed representation of non-linear loads and harmonic sources based on actual equipment characteristics and operating conditions. Equipment-specific modeling ensures accurate harmonic predictions and effective mitigation design for real-world electrical system conditions.

Services offered

Our study goes beyond basic scans. We simulate how harmonics impact every layer of your electrical system, and provide clear recommendations to mitigate risk and optimize performance.

Harmonic frequency scans

Comprehensive frequency domain analysis evaluating harmonic impedance characteristics throughout electrical systems. Frequency scans identify resonance conditions, parallel resonance points, and system response to harmonic injection for complete power quality assessment and filter design guidance.

Harmonic frequency scanning utilizes swept frequency analysis to determine system impedance versus frequency characteristics. Scan results identify potential resonance problems and guide harmonic filter placement and tuning for effective harmonic mitigation without creating new resonance issues.

Frequency Scan Components

Impedance vs Frequency: System impedance characteristics across harmonic frequency range
Resonance Identification: Detection of series and parallel resonance frequencies
Filter Impact Assessment: Evaluation of filter effects on system impedance
Capacitor Bank Analysis: Power factor correction capacitor resonance assessment
System Response Prediction: Harmonic amplification and attenuation analysis

THD/IHD analysis

Detailed total harmonic distortion and individual harmonic distortion analysis quantifying power quality conditions throughout electrical systems. THD/IHD assessment identifies harmonic violation locations, evaluates compliance with IEEE 519 standards, and guides mitigation priorities for power quality improvement.

Comprehensive harmonic distortion analysis includes voltage THD, current THD, and individual harmonic order evaluation up to the 50th harmonic. Analysis considers measurement locations, loading conditions, and system operating configurations to provide complete power quality assessment.

THD/IHD Analysis Elements

Voltage THD Assessment: Total voltage harmonic distortion evaluation at key system locations
Current THD Evaluation: Total current harmonic distortion analysis for harmonic sources
Individual Harmonic Analysis: Specific harmonic order magnitude and phase assessment
Standards Comparison: Compliance verification against IEEE 519 and utility requirements
Trending Analysis: Historical harmonic data evaluation and pattern identification

Harmonic filter design & sizing

Professional harmonic filter design and sizing based on detailed harmonic analysis and system characteristics. Filter design considers harmonic sources, system impedance, economic factors, and operational requirements to provide cost-effective harmonic mitigation solutions.

Harmonic filter engineering includes passive filter design, active filter specification, and hybrid filter solutions tailored to specific applications. Filter sizing calculations ensure adequate harmonic attenuation while preventing resonance problems and maintaining system stability.

Filter Design Components

Passive Filter Design: LC filter circuits tuned for specific harmonic frequencies
Active Filter Specification: Electronic harmonic compensation system sizing
Hybrid Filter Solutions: Combined passive and active filter systems
Economic Analysis: Cost-benefit evaluation of filter alternatives
Performance Verification: Filter effectiveness analysis and optimization

VFD & UPS harmonic modeling

Specialized harmonic modeling for variable frequency drives and uninterruptible power supplies based on equipment specifications and operating characteristics. VFD and UPS modeling provides accurate harmonic predictions for proper filter design and power quality assessment.

VFD harmonic modeling considers drive type, pulse number, loading conditions, and control methods to predict harmonic generation accurately. UPS harmonic modeling includes input and output harmonic characteristics for complete power quality evaluation.

VFD/UPS Modeling Elements

Drive Type Characterization: Harmonic modeling based on VFD topology and control
Loading Impact Analysis: Harmonic variation with load conditions
UPS Configuration Modeling: Input and output harmonic characteristics
Filter Integration: Harmonic filter effects on VFD and UPS operation
System Interaction: Multiple drive and UPS harmonic interaction analysis

You’ll receive a complete visual report, filter recommendations, and a plan to reduce harmonic distortion effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a harmonic study used for?

A harmonic study analyzes electrical power quality by measuring harmonic distortion levels and identifying power quality issues that can damage equipment, cause overheating, and reduce system efficiency. It ensures compliance with IEEE 519 standards and optimizes electrical system performance.

Harmonic studies identify sources of power quality problems, quantify distortion levels, and develop mitigation strategies to protect sensitive equipment and improve electrical system efficiency. Studies provide essential information for maintaining power quality standards and regulatory compliance.

Do harmonics affect system performance?

Yes, electrical harmonics significantly affect system performance by causing equipment overheating, reduced efficiency, increased losses, transformer heating, capacitor failure, and interference with sensitive electronic equipment. Harmonic distortion can reduce equipment lifespan and increase energy costs.

Harmonic distortion causes additional heating in transformers, motors, and cables while reducing power factor and system efficiency. High harmonic levels can cause nuisance tripping of protective devices and interference with communication systems and sensitive electronic equipment.

Is this study required for compliance?

Absolutely. IEEE 519 standards require harmonic distortion assessment for electrical systems to ensure power quality compliance. Utility companies often mandate harmonic studies for industrial customers to prevent power quality issues affecting other customers.

Regulatory requirements and utility interconnection agreements typically specify harmonic distortion limits and require periodic assessment to ensure compliance. Harmonic studies demonstrate due diligence in power quality management and regulatory adherence.

Will I get filter recommendations?

Yes, comprehensive harmonic studies include specific filter design recommendations sized for your electrical system. Filter recommendations consider harmonic sources, system impedance, and economic factors to provide cost-effective harmonic mitigation solutions.

Filter recommendations include passive filters, active filters, and hybrid solutions with detailed specifications, performance predictions, and economic analysis. Implementation guidance ensures effective harmonic mitigation while avoiding resonance problems.

How often should harmonic studies be performed?

Harmonic studies should be performed every 3-5 years or whenever significant electrical system changes occur including new non-linear loads, system reconfigurations, or power quality problems. Critical facilities may require more frequent harmonic assessment.

What equipment generates harmonics?

Non-linear loads generate harmonics including variable frequency drives, UPS systems, LED lighting, electronic equipment, welding machines, and power converters. Modern electrical systems contain many harmonic-generating devices requiring careful power quality management.

Can harmonics be completely eliminated?

Harmonics cannot be completely eliminated but can be reduced to acceptable levels through proper filter design and system configuration. Effective harmonic mitigation maintains power quality within IEEE 519 limits while protecting equipment and optimizing system performance.

What is the difference between THD and IHD?

Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) measures overall harmonic content while Individual Harmonic Distortion (IHD) measures specific harmonic frequencies. Both measurements are important for complete power quality assessment and compliance verification.

Understanding Professional Harmonic Simulation Study Analysis and Power Quality Assessment

Harmonic simulation studies constitute comprehensive power quality analysis for evaluating electrical harmonic distortion levels and their impact on electrical system performance. Power quality assessment utilizes frequency domain analysis and harmonic modeling to identify distortion sources, quantify harmonic levels, and develop mitigation strategies for optimal electrical system operation.

Professional harmonic analysis encompasses total harmonic distortion (THD) calculations, individual harmonic distortion (IHD) assessment, harmonic source identification, and equipment impact evaluation. Harmonic simulation studies provide essential information for maintaining IEEE 519 compliance, protecting sensitive equipment, and ensuring efficient electrical system performance.

Harmonic Distortion Fundamentals

Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): Mathematical measure of harmonic content relative to fundamental frequency, expressed as percentage. THD calculations quantify overall harmonic distortion levels for voltage and current waveforms throughout electrical systems.

Individual Harmonic Distortion (IHD): Measurement of specific harmonic frequency content relative to fundamental frequency. IHD analysis identifies problematic harmonic orders and guides targeted mitigation strategies for power quality improvement.

Harmonic Sources: Non-linear electrical loads generating harmonic currents including variable frequency drives, uninterruptible power supplies, LED lighting, and electronic equipment. Harmonic source identification enables effective mitigation planning and filter design.

Power Quality Impact: Effects of harmonic distortion on electrical equipment including overheating, reduced efficiency, equipment failure, and interference with sensitive electronic systems. Impact assessment guides equipment protection and system optimization strategies.

Professional Harmonic Analysis Standards and Calculation Methods

Harmonic simulation studies follow established IEEE and IEC standards providing standardized methodologies for power quality assessment. Professional harmonic analysis utilizes proven calculation techniques and industry-standard software to ensure accurate harmonic evaluation and reliable mitigation recommendations.

IEEE 519 Harmonic Standards

IEEE 519 "Recommended Practice and Requirements for Harmonic Control in Electric Power Systems" establishes harmonic distortion limits:

Voltage Distortion Limits: Maximum allowable voltage harmonic distortion levels at different voltage levels
Current Distortion Limits: Maximum allowable current harmonic distortion based on short circuit ratio
Point of Common Coupling: Evaluation criteria for utility interconnection harmonic compliance
Measurement Requirements: Standardized procedures for harmonic distortion measurement and assessment

IEC 61000 Electromagnetic Compatibility

International standards for electromagnetic compatibility and power quality:

IEC 61000-3-2: Harmonic current emission limits for equipment
IEC 61000-3-12: Harmonic limits for equipment with input current > 16A
IEC 61000-4-7: General guide on harmonics and interharmonics measurements
IEC 61000-2-4: Compatibility levels in industrial plants for low-frequency conducted disturbances

Professional Harmonic Software

Industry-standard harmonic analysis software includes:

ETAP Harmonic Analysis: Comprehensive power quality analysis with harmonic simulation
SKM Harmonic Analysis: Industrial power system harmonic assessment modules
CYME Harmonic: Distribution system harmonic analysis capabilities
PowerWorld Harmonic: Transmission system harmonic analysis tools
PSCAD/EMTDC: Time domain harmonic simulation and analysis

Advanced Harmonic Analysis Techniques and Power Quality Assessment

Interharmonic Analysis

Comprehensive interharmonic assessment evaluating non-integer frequency components that can cause equipment problems and power quality issues. Interharmonic analysis identifies sources of sub-harmonic and inter-harmonic distortion from variable speed drives and power electronic devices.

Harmonic Power Flow Analysis

Advanced harmonic power flow calculations determining harmonic current and voltage distribution throughout electrical networks. Harmonic power flow analysis enables accurate assessment of harmonic propagation and equipment impact for complex electrical systems.

Time-Varying Harmonic Analysis

Dynamic harmonic assessment considering load variations and system operating conditions over time. Time-varying analysis provides realistic harmonic evaluation accounting for operational cycles and load diversity in industrial and commercial facilities.

Harmonic Resonance Assessment

Detailed resonance analysis identifying potential harmonic amplification conditions in electrical systems. Resonance assessment evaluates series and parallel resonance frequencies to prevent harmonic amplification and equipment damage from resonant conditions.

Industry-Specific Harmonic Simulation Study Applications

Manufacturing Facility Harmonic Analysis

Industrial harmonic studies addressing variable frequency drives, motor control systems, and process equipment. Manufacturing harmonic analysis ensures power quality compliance while maintaining production efficiency and equipment reliability.

Data Center Power Quality Assessment

Critical facility harmonic evaluation for information technology equipment, UPS systems, and power distribution. Data center studies address harmonic compatibility with sensitive electronic equipment and backup power systems.

Healthcare Facility Harmonic Studies

Hospital power quality analysis ensuring harmonic compatibility with medical equipment and life safety systems. Healthcare harmonic studies address equipment interference and power quality requirements for critical care applications.

Commercial Building Harmonic Assessment

Office building harmonic analysis addressing LED lighting, HVAC systems, and tenant electronic loads. Commercial studies evaluate power quality impacts and mitigation requirements for modern building electrical systems.

Professional Harmonic Simulation Study Analysis Commitment

Three Phase Tech Services provides comprehensive harmonic simulation study services that meet industry standards and deliver reliable results for power quality optimization. Our power quality engineers utilize proven analysis methods and industry-standard software to ensure accurate harmonic assessment and effective mitigation recommendations.

We understand that power quality directly impacts equipment performance, energy efficiency, and operational costs. Our harmonic simulation studies are designed to identify power quality issues, ensure IEEE 519 compliance, and provide practical recommendations that improve electrical system performance while protecting sensitive equipment and reducing energy costs.

Quality Assurance Program

Our quality assurance program includes engineer certification, calculation verification, software validation, and comprehensive report review processes. These measures ensure reliable results and consistent service quality across all harmonic simulation study projects.

Continuous Technology Advancement

We continuously update our analysis methods, software capabilities, and technical knowledge to incorporate power quality technology advances and standard updates. This commitment ensures clients receive the most current and effective harmonic simulation study services available.

Ready to optimize your power quality? Contact our harmonic analysis specialists to discuss your power quality needs and develop a comprehensive harmonic simulation study program that addresses your specific electrical system requirements and power quality objectives.