Continuum mechanics of harmonic distortion on distribution feeders

Power distribution feeders are characterised by a high density of load take-off points, which poses a significant challenge for modellers. The loads on these feeders also tend to have a rich spectrum of harmonic emissions. This paper proposes an analytical method for harmonic studies on feeders which approximates the many discrete point loads with a continuous load distribution characterised by a current density function. This density may be incorporated into the exact transmission line equations and the resulting system solved analytically for the harmonic voltage spectrum. Analysis and simulation examples are provided to demonstrate the validity of the approximation, and build upon existing results for uniform harmonic load profiles.