Modeling and simulation of 6-pulse rectifier drives with impacts to input current harmonics

This paper describes the measurements and simulations of harmonics from six pulse adjustable speed drives in Pulp and paper Industry. Harmonic analysis of the distribution system is essential to study the behavior of equipments connected in the non-sinusoidal system environment for designing and optimal location of filters. The simulations are done in Mat lab by sim-link circuit simulator. Validation of the load models is done by performing case study for an Tamil Nadu Newsprint and Papers Ltd (TNPL) supply system and comparing the THDs obtained from simulation using MATLAB package with the THD values obtained by measurement. Due to a very close match, the simulators are used further to analyze different harmonic mitigation solutions. The best solution found by simulations, for the given plant, is an advanced harmonic filter dedicated for adjustable Speed Drives.