Power Quality Measurement and Analysis Basics

19, Aug. 2024

 

Power Quality Measurement and Analysis Basics

Measurement Tools

Several measurement tools are available for power quality measurement. Power quality analyzers are the most commonly used tools to observe real-time readings and also collect data for downloading to computers for analysis. While some are permanently installed in the distribution system, handheld analyzers are necessary for many applications, especially troubleshooting.

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Handheld power quality analyzers are fairly lightweight (generally 4 lb to 5 lb) and will measure a variety of parameters. The most typical include voltage, amperage, frequency, dips (sags) and swells in voltage values, power factor, harmonic currents, and the resulting distortion and crest factor, power and energy, voltage and current unbalance, inrush current values, and light flicker. If an analyzer measures and records such basic parameters, you can address most power quality issues successfully.

Portable data loggers typically monitor many of the same parameters as the power quality analyzer; however, they are meant for long-term recording (days to several weeks). In addition, the data logger does not typically provide the real-time values on-screen that an analyzer can provide. Additional test equipment, such as scopemeters and recording digital multimeters, also find specific use applications.

The Process

Conducting a power quality survey begins with planning. Simply determine the purpose of the survey, and write it down in a notebook or binder that will be used throughout the process to organize and maintain data. Start with a good one-line diagram of the facility electrical distribution system. If one does not exist, then this is an excellent time to get one up to date.

If conducting a general power quality survey to obtain baseline data for future comparisons ' or to help identify any immediate hidden electrical distribution problems that may exist ' start monitoring as close as practical at the point of service. Beware, however, measuring near the service typically means large amounts of fault current available. Therefore, be careful when connecting the analyzer at a point in the distribution system downstream of the main breaker that limits incident energy levels to acceptable values. Because power quality problems can either come from the electric utility ' or be generated within the facility ' be sure to contact the utility in order to identify any possible issues on this side of the meter.

Inside the facility, continue to 'drill down' into the distribution system following the one-line diagram. Obtain data at the source of each separately derived system. For example, take recordings at the first panelboard or switchboard after a 480V to 208Y/120V transformer. Be sure to mark up drawings, and take plenty of notes for future reference.

Digital cameras work well for quickly capturing nameplate data and later identifying exact connection locations. Note plant conditions and any equipment that was running. Print out digital pictures, and maintain all data for the survey in the notebook binder. These notes will become valuable when analyzing data and conducting further studies.

For more information, please visit Handheld Power Quality Analyzer Agencies.

Follow manufacturer's instructions for connecting and setting up the analyzer. Because of the amount of test equipment and supporting documentation that is needed, it is often best to have an equipment cart dedicated for power quality work. In addition to technical expertise, the underlying key to a successful survey is planning and organization. Three common mistakes when connecting power quality analyzers are:

  1. Failure to observe current polarity. Make sure the arrow on current clamps points toward the load. If the arrow points in the wrong direction, a negative current value is obtained on the analyzer for that phase.
  2. Not matching current/voltage probes. If analyzer input phase 'A' is clipped onto phase 'B,' it is obvious readings will be erroneous. Color code individual leads such that voltage and current leads for each phase are the same color, and connect carefully to prevent such errors.
  3. Relying on battery power to complete a lengthy monitoring session. While fully charged analyzer batteries are meant to last hours, nothing is more frustrating than to find key power quality events were not recorded because the analyzer shut down. Be sure to keep the analyzer plugged into an AC source for recording parameters when you will be away from the equipment.

Analyzing the Data

Whether observing values real-time on the analyzer color screen or analyzing downloaded data on the laptop back in the shop, an understanding of power quality parameters and their characteristics must be understood. IEEE Power Quality Standards and NFPA 70B are excellent resources to help understand power quality terminology, issues, and corrective actions. To help with data analysis, each manufacturer provides software for its specific test equipment. Here is what to look for when analyzing data:

If experiencing overheating of neutrals, overheating of transformers or motors, nuisance tripping of circuit breakers, blown fuses, unusual audible noise in larger distribution equipment, or if distorted voltage sine waves are found, then suspect harmonics. The magnitude of the various harmonic frequencies and the amount of total harmonic distortion created by the harmonics are the critical factors to determine the severity and correction techniques for any harmonic problem. Measure harmonics at their source, (e.g., VFD, UPS), and expect them to lessen further upstream from the equipment. Sine wave distortion is a good indicator that you should analyze harmonics values (Figures 1, 2, and 3).

POWER QUALITY ANALYZER PQ

Hioki portable power meters and analyzers are best in class power measuring instruments for measuring single to three-phase lines with a high degree of precision and accuracy. The PQ is a comprehensive but easy-to-use power quality analyzer for monitoring and recording power supply anomalies, allowing their causes to be quickly investigated, and also for assessing power supply problems such as voltage drops, flicker, harmonics, and other electrical issues.

How to Use Power Quality Analyzers: Recording the Power Quality of a Power Grid

The Hioki PQ Power Quality Analyzer measures all power parameters including voltage, current, power, harmonics, and flicker simultaneously along the same time axis, giving it the ability to capture all power anomalies such as intermittent power interruptions, voltage drops and frequency fluctuations while recording the power trend.

Key Features

  • Record data including voltage, current, power, harmonics, and flicker simultaneously along a single time axis
  • Measure up to A AC
  • Capture all power anomalies, including instantaneous outages, voltage drops, and frequency fluctuations, while simultaneously recording trend data
  • Quick Set: Easy-to-understand on-screen guide for measurement procedures
  • Bundled PQ ONE application software makes it easy to create reports
  • Record waveforms for up to 1 second before and 10 seconds after an anomaly occurs
  • Accurately measure DC currents over extended periods of time (with an AC/DC auto-zero current sensor)
  • Directly supply power to connected current sensors
  • Send measured values to Hioki data loggers using a Bluetooth® wireless technology compatible adapter (LR Link-compatible products), Ver. 2.0 and later

Note: An optional current sensor is necessary to measure current or power parameters. Select from Value Kits for added savings.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Three-Phase Power Quality Analyzer Dealers.