A harmonic filter installation to reduce voltage distortion from static power converters

Voltage distortion on plant distribution systems is becoming an increasingly serious problem as sources of harmonic currents (primarily static power converters) proliferate. The use of interference-prone control and instrumentation equipment is also rapidly expanding. The problem is well defined by IEEE Standard 519, which proposes a 5% limit to voltage distortion for general applications. IEEE 519 is frequently cited in specifications for static power conversion equipment. The design, construction, and testing of a harmonic filter installation to meet IEEE 519 for a particularly adverse application is described. A method is proposed for confirming filter performance under factory test conditions that differ significantly from the design conditions. The method is illustrated for the described installation but is of general utility