Multi-Point Time-Synchronized Waveform Recording for the Analysis of Wide-Area Harmonic Propagation

Abstract

This paper focuses on studying the phenomenon of harmonic distortion propagation through distribution networks. This phenomenon is governed by a combination of factors involving the nature of harmonic loads and their dynamic interaction, the influence of background voltage distortion, and harmonic impedance values. The objective of the proposed research includes evaluation of the network response at different nodes to harmonic current injections via utilizing a time-synchronized distributed measurement system. The study is performed in a fully controlled and flexible test network with three medium voltage/low voltage (MV/LV) distribution substations and several managed LV harmonic sources, namely PV inverter, single-phase EV charger and emulated harmonic load with reference current injections. A selection of the results is analyzed and interpretation of the observed phenomena is given with implications that synchronized harmonic measurements can be considered as potential powerful instruments for analyzing power quality disturbances.