Improved reliability of critical processes in UK laboratory with Merus™ Active Harmonic Filters
Challenges in the customers laboratory
Laboratory consisted of several non-linear loads causing high harmonic current distortions. These loads include AC drives, Uninterruptable Power Supplies (UPS), Switch Mode Power Supplies (SMPS) and laboratory equipment. These loads were
fed by two separate transformers each rated at 2500kVA. The presence of high harmonic distortions threatens the reliability of operations and shortens the lifetime of expensive laboratory equipment.
As medical facility is involved with cutting-edge research, the critical process needed to be protected from the impact of poor power quality, in particular high harmonic distortions. Several harmonic mitigation methods were evaluated in terms of performance, cost, and lead time. Customer selected Merus™ Active Harmonic Filters due to its excellent performance, shorter lead time and overall better value for money.
Solutions that we found for the customer
Merus Power’s partner Power Capacitors Ltd proposed active harmonic filtering solution to cancel the harmonic distortions at the laboratory. This solution offered better value proposition to the customer in terms of shorter lead-time, more economical with guaranteed compliance to the standards.
Compact Merus™ A2-series Active Harmonic Filters modules in IP20 protection were shipped from Finland to UK to save shipping costs. Cabinets to house active harmonic filters were manufactured in UK by Merus Power partner Power Capacitors Ltd. End customer received a free-standing active harmonic filtering cabinet with 450KVAr detuned capacitor banks. Installation was made in closed loop connection and selectable mode was chosen.
Results and customer benefits
- economical solution with shorter lead time
- high reliability of critical processes
- longer lifetime of sensitive medical equipment
Total Harmonic Distortion Current (THDI) percentage at the laboratory was measured at 14%. The measurement also revealed high 3rd, 5th, 7th and 11th harmonic currents and exceeding the limits specified in the G5/4.
Merus™ Active Harmonic Filters were commissioned in selectable operation mode targeting all above mentioned high individual harmonics. Post commissioning report confirmed total harmonic distortion current less than 5% as well as individual high harmonics 3rd, 5th, 7th and 11th harmonic currents were successfully brought under the desired limits.
Contact us to design solutions that fit for your purposes. Our products are modular and easy to scale for very different needs.