Power quality and line considerations for variable speed AC drives

Variable speed AC drives are finding their way into all types of industrial and commercial power system applications. Their application to the load (motor) generally is reasonably well selected-at least within heavy industry. However, there are many line (source) design parameters frequently overlooked. This paper presents some of the major (and not so major) areas of concern which frequently result in serious performance or power supply quality problems. Finally, basic design guidelines are given to greatly minimize system problems-especially as newer technologies are intermixed with old