Design and development of medium voltage open rack harmonic filters for distribution networks

Abstract

Harmonic voltages and currents in distribution networks are on the increase in recent times due to the introduction of a proliferation of electronic controlled devices such as variable speed drives. These non-linear devices improve efficiency but distort the supply waveforms. To address the harmonic issues, harmonic filters are used to mitigate distortion levels and prevent damage. These harmonic filters are commonly found at medium voltage levels in power systems. The problem is that knowledge from the design to commissioning stages of these medium voltage harmonic filters are neither well developed nor adequately documented. The aim of this research is to investigate and expound upon the process whilst taking into account all the factors involved throughout the process from bringing such a filter into operation in the real world. Medium voltage harmonic filters are usually the open rack type found in outdoor installations. Capacitors and reactors are the main components used in the construction of such harmonic filters and in some instances resistors are also used. The physical size and spacing of such components determines the construction layout area and how this is done in practice warrants being researched and explained in this thesis. In order to make these factors explicit, a methodology is developed from design, to installation and commissioning and is applied to two networks which are used to prove that the developed methodology is applicable for the different types of harmonic filters designed. The network voltage levels are also different, thus implying that the components will have different design factors. The final arrangements of the harmonic filters are later drawn and shown in three-dimension (3D) as per dimensions. The 3D figures are a further contribution as the design is taken from theory and is ultimately implemented into an installation and construction layout for erection at site. Interviews and surveys are conducted with specialists in industry dealing with harmonic filter applications and the results are analysed as part of implementation of the developed methodology. The design, installation and construction phases are documented and shown to be effective in application and the work disclosed in this thesis will help newcomers to this specialised field and is recommended for use in industry.