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Power Quality AnalysisHigh-precision power quality measurement and analysis
Dewesoft power quality analyzers measure key power quality parameters in compliance with IEC 61000-4-30 Class A standards. Unlike other power quality meters, our analyzers provide a more detailed power quality analysis, including raw data storage, fault behavior analysis, harmonics, and the calculation of additional electrical and also mechanical parameters.
highlights
Harmonics up to 150 kHz
Measure and analyze harmonics for voltage, current, and total harmonic distortion (THD) at frequencies up to 150 kHz, in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the IEC-61000-4-7 standard.
THD calculation
Dewesoft power quality analyzers can calculate Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) for both voltage and current up to the 3000th harmonic order.
Interharmonics and higher frequencies
Dewesoft power quality analyzers measure and analyze interharmonics and higher frequencies, grouping higher frequency elements into 200 Hz bands up to 150 kHz.
Flicker, flicker emissions, and RVCs
Dewesoft power quality analyzers automatically calculate flicker and flicker emission parameters in accordance with the IEC 61000-4-15 and IEC 61400-21-1 standards
Real-time visuals
Fast and customizable visual displays for FFT, Harmonic FFT, and Waterfall FFT provide real-time visual feedback, making this solution an excellent power quality monitor.
Raw data storing
DewesoftX measurement software features an easy-to-use signal processing engine. Math can be performed in real-time during measurement or in post-processing. Dewesoft power quality analyzers store raw data, allowing for parameter recalculation during post-processing.
Flexible configurations
We offer flexible system configurations, from systems with hundreds of input channels to systems with modular and distributable architecture, easy network connectivity, and PTP synchronization. For field use, we provide compact, portable power quality analyzers with built-in displays, CPUs, data storage, and batteries for full autonomy.
Software included
Every Dewesoft data acquisition system is bundled with award-winning DewesoftX data acquisition software. The software is easy to use but very rich and deep in functionality. All software updates are free forever with no hidden licensing or yearly maintenance fees.
Dewesoft quality and 7-year warranty
Enjoy our industry-leading 7-year warranty. Our data acquisition systems are made in Europe, utilizing only the highest build quality standards. We offer free and customer-focused technical support. Your investment into the Dewesoft solutions is protected for years ahead.
What is power quality?
Power quality refers to the stability and consistency of electrical power supplied to equipment. It encompasses various parameters, including voltage, frequency, and waveform characteristics, that ensure electrical devices operate efficiently and reliably. High power quality means that the power supply is free from interruptions, fluctuations, and distortions, which can otherwise lead to equipment malfunctions, reduced efficiency, or even damage.
Why do we need power quality analyzers?
Power quality analyzers (PQAs) are essential tools for assessing and maintaining the quality of electrical power. Here’s why they are important:
Identifying Power Issues: PQAs help in detecting power disturbances such as voltage sags, swells, transients, and harmonics that can negatively affect equipment performance.
Preventing Equipment Damage: By monitoring power quality, PQAs can prevent damage to sensitive electronic equipment caused by poor power conditions, thus prolonging the lifespan of the equipment.
Improving Energy Efficiency: Analyzing power quality helps in identifying inefficiencies and losses in the power system, allowing for corrective measures to improve overall energy efficiency.
Ensuring Compliance: Many industries are required to comply with specific power quality standards. PQAs ensure that power systems meet these regulatory requirements, avoiding potential fines and penalties.
Enhancing Reliability and Performance: Consistent power quality is crucial for the reliable operation of industrial processes, data centers, healthcare facilities, and other critical infrastructure. PQAs help maintain the performance and reliability of these systems.
Data-Driven Decision Making: PQAs provide detailed data and insights into power quality, enabling informed decision-making for maintenance, upgrades, and optimization of power systems.
In summary, power quality analyzers are vital for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of electrical systems, protecting equipment, and ensuring regulatory compliance. They play a crucial role in modern power management and system reliability. Dewesoft power quality analyzers can be used in all the mentioned steps, providing the most flexible power quality analysis solution on the market today.
Introducing the Dewesoft Power Quality Analyzer (PQA)
Dewesoft has combined a rugged hardware platform with high-end signal conditioning and robust software features to create the world’s most capable Power Quality Analyzer (PQA). This instrument opens up entirely new possibilities for engineers performing power quality analysis.
The Dewesoft power quality analyzers can measure parameters according to the IEC 61000-4-30 Class A standard. Compared to conventional power quality analyzers, it’s possible to do more detailed analyses (e.g., raw data storing, behavior at faults, calculation of additional parameters, etc.).
Key Features:
Comprehensive Power Parameter Calculations:
Calculates over 100 power parameters, including P, Q, S, PF, cos phi, and more.
Capabilities for full raw data recording.
Advanced Analytical Tools:
Integrated oscilloscope, FFT, and harmonics analysis.
Real-time and post-processing calculation options.
Multi-Domain Measurement:
Measures data across various domains such as vibration, temperature, strain, loads, GPS/GNSS location data, CAN bus, XCP/CCP, video, and more.
Ensures all parameters are fully synchronized, regardless of their update rates.
Unmatched Versatility:
No other PQA can measure such a broad range of data types with power quality measurements, fully synchronized.
This structured format highlights the key features and benefits, making the information clear and easy to understand.
Advanced data analysis
The Dewesoft Power Quality Analyzer is a highly flexible data acquisition (DAQ) solution that integrates power and energy logging with several other measurement instruments into a single device. This integration offers numerous advantages for the measurement process:
Data Synchronization: Fully synchronized data ensures compatibility and ease of comparison.
Raw Data Logging: Raw data is always stored, allowing for detailed analysis at any time during post-processing.
User-Friendly: Intuitive software simplifies measurement and analysis tasks, making it easy to learn and use.
Cost-Effective: A single instrument that can measure and analyze power parameters, which would typically require multiple devices, saving space, time, and money.
Comprehensive Measurement Capabilities
The Dewesoft Power Quality Analyzer combines several features and offers advanced data analysis capabilities:
Harmonics and THD up to 150 kHz
Interharmonics and higher frequencies
Flicker, Flicker Emissions, and RVCs
FFT and waterfall FFTs
Scopre and vectorscope
Extended symmetrical components
Power, efficiency, energy, period values, power of harmonics calculations
Power quality standards overview
Our power quality meters comply with key requirements defined in various power quality standards, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. The table below summarizes the relevant standards and their descriptions. More detailed compliance to each standard is listed in the technical specifications table.
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| IEC 61000-4-30 | Power quality measurement methods |
| IEC 61000-4-7 | General guide on harmonics and interharmonics measurements |
| IEC 61000-4-15 | Testing and measurement techniques - Flickermeter |
| EN 50160 | Voltage characteristics of electricity supplied by public electricity networks |
| EN 50163 | Railway applications - Supply voltages of traction systems |
| IEEE-519 | Limits on voltage and current distortion |
| IEC 61000-2-4 | Compatibility levels in industrial plants for low-frequency conducted disturbances |
| IEC 61400-21 | Measurement And Assessment Of Electrical Characteristics - Wind Turbines |
| FGW-TR3 | Determination of the Electrical Characteristics of Power Generating Units and systems, Storage Systems as well for their Components in medium-, high- and extra-high voltage grids |
| VDE-AR4105 | Power Generating Plants in the Low Voltage Grid |
| IEC 61000-3-3 | Limitation of voltage changes, voltage fluctuations and flicker in public low-voltage supply systems, for equipment with rated current ≤16 A per phase and not subject to conditional connection |
| IEC 61000-3-11 | Limitation of voltage changes, voltage fluctuations and flicker in public low-voltage supply systems - Equipment with rated current ≤ 75 A and subject to conditional connection |
| IEC 61000-3-2 | Limits for harmonic current emissions (equipment input current ≤16 A per phase) |
| IEC 61000-3-12 | Limits for harmonic currents produced by equipment connected to public low-voltage systems with input current >16 A and ≤ 75 A per phase |
For specific standard compliance please contact our support or local sales team.
FFT harmonics analysis
Harmonics are integer multiples of the fundamental frequency (e.g., 50 Hz) that distort the voltage and current waveforms. These distortions, caused by non-sinusoidal loads, can negatively impact the operation and lifespan of electrical equipment and devices.
Effects on Motors and Generators:
Increased Heating: Harmonic frequencies cause iron and copper losses, leading to excessive heating.
Torque Issues: Harmonics can cause pulsating or reduced torque.
Mechanical Problems: They create mechanical oscillations and higher audible noise, which accelerate the aging of shafts, insulation, and mechanical parts, reducing efficiency.
Effects on Transformers:
Current Harmonics: Increase copper and stray flux losses.
Voltage Harmonics: Increase iron losses.
Frequency Dependency: Losses are directly proportional to frequency, making higher frequency harmonics more significant.
Additional Issues: Harmonics can cause vibrations and increased noise.
Effects on General Electrical Equipment:
Reduced Efficiency and Lifespan
Increased Heating
Malfunctions or Unpredictable Behavior
In summary, harmonics can cause significant issues such as reduced efficiency, increased heating, and potential malfunctions in various electrical equipment and devices. Understanding and analyzing these harmonics is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and longevity.
Harmonics, Interharmonics and THD
Dewesoft power quality meters can measure harmonics for voltage, current, and additional active and reactive power up to the 3000th order, with calculations following the IEC 61000-4-7 standard.
You can customize the number of sidebands and half-bands for harmonic order calculation. Higher frequency components can be grouped in 200 Hz bands up to 150 kHz.
The system also calculates Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) for voltage and current up to the 3000th order and includes interharmonics to provide comprehensive analysis functionalities.
These advanced harmonic calculation features enable thorough analysis for all types of electrical equipment and devices.
Harmonics calculations
U, I, P, Q, and impedance
Individual setup of the number of harmonics, including DC component (Example: 20 kHz sampling rate = 200 harmonics @ 50 Hz)
Harmonics up to 3000th order (@50 Hz)
Variable sidebands and half sidebands for Harmonics
Higher Frequencies up to 150 kHz in 200 Hz bands
Interharmonics, groups or single values
According to EN 61000-4-7
Calculation corrected to the actual real frequency
THD, THD even, THD odd
Trigger on each parameter
Background harmonics subtraction
Full FFT analysis
Dewesoft power quality analyzers offer full frequency-based FFT analysis in addition to harmonic analysis. This feature allows for comprehensive frequency analysis across the entire spectrum. You can trigger analyses based on FFT patterns and apply various definable filters, such as:
Hanning
Hamming
Flat top
Rectangle
And more
For more information about the Dewesoft FFT analyzer, please refer to the following resources:
2D and 3D FFT waterfall analysis
In addition to standard FFT and harmonic FFT analysis, the Power Quality Analyzer also offers 2D and 3D FFT waterfall analysis.
This visualization technique is particularly useful for analyzing variable drives. For instance, when examining the run-up of an inverter, the harmonic sidebands become clearly visible as the frequency increases. The image shows the run-up of an inverter for a traction drive from 0 to 150 Hz.
The FFT waterfall display can be configured to be linear or logarithmic, in 2D or 3D, and sorted by harmonic order or frequency.
Flicker and flicker emission test
Understanding flicker
Flicker refers to fluctuations (repetitive variations) in the RMS voltage between two steady-state conditions. Flicker is often indicated by flashing light bulbs and is particularly common in grids with low short-circuit resistance. It is caused by the frequent connection and disconnection of loads, such as heat pumps and rolling mills, which impact the voltage.
High levels of flicker can be psychologically irritating and harmful to humans.
Flicker measurement with Dewesoft power quality analyzers
Dewesoft Power Quality analyzers provide comprehensive flicker measurement capabilities, including:
Measurement of key flicker parameters according to the IEC 61000-4-15 standard.
Flicker emission calculation according to the IEC 61400-21-1 standard, allowing for the evaluation of flicker emissions into the grid caused by wind power plants or other generation units.
PST (Short-term flicker severity) and PLT (Long-term flicker severity) with flexible intervals.
Individual recalculation intervals.
Measure parameters such as Pinst (instantaneous flicker), dU (voltage deviation), dUmax (maximum voltage deviation), and dUduration (duration of voltage deviation).
Rapid voltage changes (RVCs)
Rapid Voltage Changes (RVCs) are additional parameters supplementing the flicker standard. Dewesoft X data acquisition software calculates these parameters according to the IEC 61000-4-15 standard.
RVCs describe any voltage fluctuations where the voltage amplitude changes by more than 3% between two steady states within a certain time interval. These voltage changes can be analyzed in post-processing using various parameters, including:
Depth of voltage change
dU, dMax, dUduration
Steady-state deviation
And more
Unbalance and symmetrical components
A balanced system has a 120° phase shift between the voltages and currents, and both voltages and currents have the same amplitude, respectively. Unbalance occurs when the 3-phase system is unevenly loaded, causing the phases and magnitudes to no longer correlate.
To analyze an unbalanced system, the symmetrical components calculation method is used. This method divides the original unbalanced 3-phase power system into three components:
Positive Sequence: Rotates in the same direction as the original system.
Negative Sequence: Rotates in the opposite direction.
Zero Sequence: Represents the system with no phase shift.
An unbalanced system can lead to several issues, including:
Current flow in the neutral line
Overheating of electrical components
Mechanical stress
Increased vibration and torque pulsation
Low power quality
Energy losses
Dewesoft’s power analyzers can measure over 50 parameters for a comprehensive analysis of an unbalanced system. These parameters include various calculations for voltage, current, active power, reactive power, apparent power, and harmonics.
Frequency deviations
The Dewesoft Power Analyzers are ideal for frequency monitoring and testing the frequency behavior of power generation units in the developmental stage (see renewable energy testing).
High-frequency deviations from the fundamental frequency in public grids can have severe consequences. Excessive frequency drops or rises can risk a total power system collapse, potentially causing a blackout.
Frequency deviations in power grids are typically caused by the connection or disconnection of power generation plants or large loads. The grid becomes unstable if there is any deviation from the nominal operating frequency. An excessively high frequency indicates an oversupply of power in the grid, while an excessively low frequency indicates an undersupply of power.
With the growing popularity of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, grid stability is more at risk. Wind does not always blow at constant speeds, and solar energy is affected by clouds, shadows, and fluctuations in radiation intensity. These factors lead to abrupt deviations in the frequency at which power is delivered to the grid.
Other electrical power-related resources
Additional information about how to measure voltage, current, and perform power analysis can be found on our FREE online PRO training:
Power quality DewesoftX online manual
Dewesoft power solutions manual
Got Questions? We've Got Answers!
We've gathered all the answers you're looking for, neatly organized just for you.
The different Power Quality parameters describe the deviation of the voltage from its ideal sinusoidal waveform at a certain frequency. These deviations can lead to disturbances, outages, or damage to electrical equipment connected to the grid. The main parameters that power quality focuses on are: harmonics, unbalance in electrical systems, flicker, Voltage changes, Voltage peaks, transient recording, and frequency behavior.
A Power Quality Analyzer or Meter is a device used to monitor, measure, and analyze the quality of electrical power in a power system. It helps in identifying and diagnosing issues related to power quality that can affect the performance and lifespan of electrical equipment.
Here are some key functions and features of a power quality analyzer:
- Voltage and Current Measurement: Measures the RMS (Root Mean Square) values of voltage and current to determine if they are within acceptable ranges.
- Harmonics Analysis: Detects and measures harmonic distortions in the electrical signal, which can cause overheating and malfunction of electrical equipment.
- Transient Analysis: Captures and analyzes transient events such as voltage spikes or dips, which can cause damage to sensitive electronic devices.
- Frequency Monitoring: Monitors the frequency of the power supply to ensure it remains stable and within specified limits.
- Power Factor Measurement: Measures the power factor to determine how efficiently electrical power is being used. A low power factor indicates poor efficiency.
- THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) Calculation: Calculates the total harmonic distortion in the system to assess the overall quality of the power supply.
- Flicker Measurement: Measures voltage fluctuations that can cause flickering lights, which can be annoying and even harmful to human health.
- Imbalance Detection: Identifies imbalances in the three-phase power supply, which can lead to overheating and inefficiencies in the system.
- Data Logging and Reporting: Records data over time for trend analysis and generates detailed reports for diagnostics and compliance purposes.
The Dewesoft Power Quality Analyzer can measure all these parameters according to the IEC 61000-4-30 Class A Standard. In comparison to conventional Power Quality Analyzers it’s possible to do more detailed analyses (e.g. raw data storing, behavior at faults, calculation of additional parameters etc.).
Harmonics are integer multiples of the fundamental frequency (e.g., 50 Hz for the power grid in Europe) that cause distortion in the voltage and current of the original sinusoidal waveform. These harmonic voltages and currents, generated by non-sinusoidal loads, can significantly impact the operation and lifespan of electrical equipment and devices.
When applying FFT to analyze a signal, the result is a spectrum that shows how the signal’s energy is distributed among different frequency components. Here’s how it works:
- Fundamental Frequency: This is the primary frequency of the signal. For a 50 Hz signal, the fundamental frequency is 50 Hz.
- Harmonics: These are multiples of the fundamental frequency. For a 50 Hz signal, the harmonics would be 100 Hz (2nd harmonic), 150 Hz (3rd harmonic), 200 Hz (4th harmonic), and so on.
Identifying harmonics in electrical signals helps in diagnosing power quality issues, such as distortion that can affect the performance of electrical equipment.
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) is a measurement that quantifies the distortion of a waveform due to the presence of harmonics. It is commonly used in electrical and audio systems to assess the quality of a signal or power supply. Here’s a detailed explanation:
THD represents the ratio of the sum of the powers of all harmonic components to the power of the fundamental frequency. It is usually expressed as a percentage.
The Dewesoft power analyzer can calculate Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) for voltage and current up to the 3000th order. Harmonics primarily originate from loads controlled by converters, such as diodes, thyristors, and transistors.
Total Harmonic Current (THC) is the accumulated currents of orders 2 to 40 that contribute to the distortion of the current waveform.
The current Total Demand Distortion (TDD) is defined as the ratio of the root-sum-square values of the harmonic current to the maximum demand load current times 100 to get the result in a percentage.
Flicker is a term used to describe fluctuations (repetitive variations) of voltage. Flashing light bulbs are indicators of high flicker exposure. Flicker is especially present in grids with a low short-circuit resistance and is caused by the frequent connection and disconnection (e.g. heat pumps, rolling mills, etc.) of loads that affect the voltage. A high level of flicker is perceived as psychologically irritating and can be harmful to humans.
Rapid Voltage Changes are parameters which are added as a supplement to the flicker standard. Rapid Voltage Changes describe all voltage changes that change the voltage for more than 3% at a certain time interval. These voltage changes can afterward be analyzed with different parameters (depth of voltage change, duration, steady-state deviation, etc.).
Flicker emissions refer to fluctuations in the brightness of lighting caused by variations in the voltage supply. These fluctuations can be noticeable and can affect both the comfort and health of individuals exposed to them. Flicker emissions are an important aspect of power quality, particularly in electrical grids.
Causes of Flicker Emissions
- Variable Loads: Devices that rapidly switch on and off or change their load, such as arc furnaces, welding machines, and certain types of lighting, can cause flicker emissions.
- Renewable Energy Sources: Wind turbines and solar panels can introduce flicker due to their variable power output.
- Grid Instabilities: Fluctuations in the power supply from the grid can lead to voltage variations, causing flicker.
Effects of Flicker Emissions
- Visual Discomfort: Flicker can cause eye strain, headaches, and general discomfort.
- Health Issues: Prolonged exposure to flicker can lead to more serious health issues, including migraines and epileptic seizures in sensitive individuals.
- Reduced Efficiency: In industrial settings, flicker can lead to inefficiencies and increased operational costs due to the fluctuating power quality.
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