APF – Active Power Filter

Save Money
Improve energy efficiency, reduce energy costs, simplify installation and remove utility penalties.

Secure Compliance
Guaranteed compliance with IEEE 519, GS5/4, EN 50160 and other power quality standards, recommendations and warranty demands.

Save Time and Space
Seamless installation and retrofits with the most flexible and compact solution on the market.

Multifunctional
One decvice, but many solutions to help you save energy, achieve higher productivity, decrease downtime and extend lifetime of devices and components.

The new EMES APF  range is the ultimate answer to power quality problems. 

It  is a scalable and flexible, high performance multi-functional active filtering solution that brings reliability and efficiency to your electrical system, resulting in greater operational efficiency, prolonged equipment life and improved energy efficiency.

MULTIFUNCTIONAL Active Filter:

  • Active harmonic filtering
  • Dynamic power factor correction 
  • Voltage variations (sags&swells) reduction.
  • Voltage fluctuations (flicker) mitigation
  • Load balancing in three-phase systems

How EMES APF works

The new EMES APF is basically a very advanced computer controlled current generator with the ability to instantly produce any shape or form of compensation current. 

Harmonic Filtering

EMES Active Power Filters are connected in parallel with the loads to be compensated. They measure load current, including harmonics, which are detected through external CTs and, are fed to the internal control unit where an intelligent FFT algorithm separates the harmonic currents from the fundamental current.

A compensating harmonic current, of equal magnitude but 180deg out of phase, is dynamically and accurately calculatedand sent to the IGBT control where a PWM signal is generated at a switching frequency of up to 35kHz.

At the same time, the internal CT’s detect the output current and provide negative feedback to the unit which then makes adjustments to achieve a more accurate and stable system.

Dynamic Power Factor Compensation
In addition to harmonic current and voltage mitigation, the active power filters also provide real time dynamic reactive power compensation.
Reactive power compensation stabilizes voltage, mitigates flicker and releases additional capacity for transferring more active power in the existing electrical network and improves the power factor. Fast and accurate response to reactive power changes is important, for example, in dynamic loads like electric arc furnaces, welding machines and cranes to avoid voltage destabilization.Conventional power factor correction solutions are unable to answer to this demand in real-time

Load Balancing

Using single-phase loads on a three-phase electric power system (connected phase-to-phase or phase-to-neutral) results in unbalanced load conditions in the system. Unbalanced load currents result in unbalanced voltages and affect other loads connected at the point of common coupling. Unbalanced load conditions also cause excessive neutral current, resulting in overheating motors and transformers, power losses and lower system efficiencies. Load balancing is necessary to improve the power quality and efficiency of the system.
A typical case where load balancing is needed is a phase-to-phase connected welding equipment and AC – EV chargers that burdens only two of the three lines and can thus create voltage unbalance between the phases

Customer benefits

Along with effectively cancelling harmonic distortions, EMES advanced active filters are capable of solving several other power quality challenges.
The selective operation mode allows tailoring of the functionality of the APF to meet the required performance level.
Customer Benefits includes:

  • Higher productivity
  • Reliable plant operation at reduced maintenance costs
  • Longer lifetime of electrical and process equipment
  • Additional electric capacity in existing electrical network
  • Compliance with IEEE 519, G5/4, EN 50160 and also other power quality standards, recommendations and warranty demands.
  • Clean up your power – Safe and stable power supply
  • Provides best in class performance
  • Energy savings
  • Quick return on investment
  • Harmonic mitigation eliminates harmonic current in the neutral, however, in a 3-phase system with single-phase loads, current still flows in the neutral. Applying mains load balancing reduces neutral current to 0, resulting in a perfectly stable system

Technology

Designed for high performance and reliability

We can proudly say that our products are designed and manufactured to the highest specifications using the proven IGBT (insulated-gate bipolar transistor) power switching semiconductors and digital signal processing hardware to secure high performance and accurate control.
By using state-of-the-art signal processing and advanced control structures to manage the power flow to and from the machine, EMES APF technology
 continuously monitors the network and injects the exact right amount of compensation current, at exactly the right time.

EMES Active Power Filters are built on modern three-level topology, which brings several major benefits compared to other active filters built on the conventional two-level topology. With three-level topology technology, the switching frequency and voltage stress are distributed among the two IGBTs. Reduced stress extends the lifetime of the power electronics. The efficiency and lower losses achieved with three-level topology are substantial. These improvements reduce the overall cost of ownership compared to conventional solutions.

The advanced 3 level topology design based on a zero level voltage transformation (comprising of IGBT’s of lower voltage corresponding higher switching frequency).
EMES APF`s are capable of suppressing the undesirably generated ripple currents effectively and promote a high compensation precision for the output waveform with respect to the sinusoidal waveform.

Key Features

  • Excellent harmonic mitigation with guaranteed compliance.
    • EMES active filters ensure a guaranteed compliance with the harmonic distortion limits specified in IEEE519,EN50160,G5/4 and other power quality standards, recommendations and warranty demands.
  • Unlimited scalability and flexible design.
    • Higher compensation capacity can easily be achieved by adding APF modules in parallel without any technical limitations. This give the flexibility to faciliy engineers when more loads are added in the facilities.
  • Market leading technology – 98.5% best in class efficiency
    • With unbeatable technology and cutting edge capabilities, the new EMES APF range drastically lowers your installations and operational cost. Energy losses are reduced by 50%, and 33% heat reduction ensure improved equipment and cost efficiency.
  • Automatically tunable to any system.
    • EMES APF provides a real time response with constant correction to plant harmonics. The virtually instantaneous response ensures your power quality is at the highest possible level, even with varying harmonic loads.
  • Balance your load and correct your power factor.
    • One device, but many solutions to help you save energy, achieve higher productivity, decrease downtime and extend lifetime of deviecs and components.
  • Real time access, monitoring and configuration
    • Advanced and comprehensive monitoring & reporting features. They enable before and after analysis by providing you data of harmonic distortions from both supply and load side. The Easy to use high quality colour display allows the device to be configured and its installation status shown in real time.

Modular, compact size and light weight

Traditional Active Harmonic Filters are large and heavy, often taking up valuable floor space in switch rooms. EMES have applied new generation thinking and innovative design principles to create a range of Active Harmonic Filters that feature a modular design and are available in wall-mount, rack-mount and rack/cabinet configurations. This flexibility gives engineers multiple options to cater for all situations and ultimately save valuable space and ‘floor real-estate’.

Find the combination that best suits your filtering needs

The compact E and H series APF range consists of a wide range of rack and wall mounted models.For installations with higher filtering capacity requirements, modules may be installed in a cabinet-type array, obtaining cabinets reaching 900A. In this way, far fewer measurement transformers and much less electrical wiring are required, since only 3 measurement transformers need to be connected to the master and the CAN bus wiring to the slave modules. In the event of an even higher filtering demand, the master-slave function can be expanded to unlimited parallel connected units.

Rack mounted module

The new EMES APF range of advanced multi-functional active filters are designed for light industrial, commercial buildings and demanding applications with voltage level up to 690V in both
3W and 4W applications.
Ultra-compact design makes it suitable for space limited application, retrofit projects and allows easy integration into variable speed drives (VFDs) or capacitor bank cubicles.

Rack mounted modules are available in single module capacity from 25A – 300A, with unlimited parallel installation capability.

Wall mounted module

The wall-mounted E and H series multilevel active filters are a complete space effective solution for solving power quality problems in three-phase industrial, commercial or service installations caused by the presence of harmonics and the consumption of reactive power.

Wall mounted modules are available in single module capacity from 25A – 300A, with unlimited parallel installation capability.  

Flexible cabinet solutions

EMES offers a wide range of flexible and modular cabinet options. Cabinets are avilable in IP20, IP31, IP54 or others degrees of protection upon request. Cabinets are easelly expandable with small-sized rack modules and up to 900A maximum capacity in one cabinet.

The cabinets are pre-installed, pre-wired, pre-configured and tested for quality before shipment.

The flexible functionality of the cabinets allows integration to overlying control such as a PLC or SCADA systems. The overlying system can change control parameters, or change compensation sets on the fly. This is useful in for example marine- and generator applications.

Applications

With EMES Active Power Filters you get an advanced active filter solution that helps you directly meet the power quality needs of your operation. No matter the industry, the APF will help you achieve high power quality and smooth operational efficiency.
The APF can be applied to wide range of industrial or commercial environments both onshore and offshore, where good power quality is essential. EMES and our partners having successfully installed systems in a broad range of different applications world wide. EMES Active Power Filters have proved its ability and unique capabilities for processes that use Variable Speed Drives (VSD), fast fluctuating loads such as welding machines, Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) systems and DC load, single phase loads such as lighting and computers as well as electric arc furnaces and rolling mills.

For industry

Power quality issues can put your whole business at risk. It’s very likely these issues are coming from within your facility. In fact, 80% of power disturbances originate from inside a power network. Electric motors, VSDs, lighting systems, and transformers can all have negative effects on harmonics. The highly-advanced machinery and equipment used in process operations represents a significant capital investment. The sensitive nature of such machines makes them vulnerable to power disturbances and other related problems, including trips, unplanned stops, equipment failure, reduced equipment lifetime, and flicker.

Also, while energy consumption, and therefore cost, is a main concern for those in process industries, safety and sanitation is the highest priority. This is why it is crucial to have a reliable power quality solution to strengthen the electrical system overall and avoid unplanned stops—which is the scenario most likely to contribute to a safety or sanitation risk.

EMES APF monitors currents for these disturbances and injects harmonic current to correct them. It can reduce THDi to < 3%, to ensure your equipment maintains efficiency and operates at or below designed temperatures for a longer life.

Advantages you will achieve by installing EMES APF 

Optimize your network
APF makes it possible to compensate all power available in the grid. This enables secured network stability, even with demands from lighting, computers, etc.

Eliminate acility “ghost” problems
Have you ever experienced a mechanical or operational problem that seemed to have no apparent cause? Poor power quality is often the cause. APF technology eliminates and prevents “ghost” problems that are really due to unseen electrical problems in the grid (improving power quality).

Achieve compliance
This low harmonic solution minimizes the effect that the facility’s heavy energy load will have on the grid—thereby helping you avoid fines or other legal repercussions due to non-compliance with electrical standards, such as IEEE, EN50160, FoL.

Decrease power consumption
Sustained high power quality means more efficient, problem-free production. Due to its ability to reduce losses (heat energy) in the transformer, APF helps you simultaneously conserve energy and lower your energy costs.

Prevent surges and transient with improved power quality – AVE Hybrid
By combining the AVE and the multi-functional E or H series active filters, the AVE-Hybrid is capable of controlling both
current and voltage, making it capable of addressing almost all known power quality related problems. The unit monitors and compensates imperfect power in the grid at the speed of the current to prevent power surges and transients that can damage monitoring or control systems in automated plants. Thanks to this active and dynamic monitoring, production can continue smoothly.

Get a free consultation today
Contact us today for advice about your unique operation

For buildings

Today’s commercial buildings have more non-linear loads than ever before: LED or CFL lights, computers, office loads, and variable speed drives on HVAC systems. These loads are the cause of harmonic distortion, affecting the 3-phase and neutral cables. Adverse effects of harmonics can be expensive, lead to lost of data or data corruption, and premature equipment failure. EMES APF is perfect for nonlinear loads. It mitigates harmonics in all 3-phases and neutral, plus power factor correction and mains current balancing. It can extend equipment life, and help ensure new reliability and efficiency to your electrical system.

The key benefits of improving power quality at commercial buildings are:

  • Reliable operation of critical processes
  • Higher service quality and low operational costs
  • Energy savings
  • Extended lifetime of electrical equipment
  • Safe and reliable electric supply
  • Possibility to add more loads without extra investment
  • Compliance with IEEE-519, G5/4, FoL, IEC61000 3-2, 3-4 and other power quality standards and recommendations

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For healthcare facilities

Hospitals are mission critical applications and require continuous high quality power to achieve the necessary service level. Modern healthcare facilities use expensive medical equipment for intensive care units, surgical operations and other healthcare processes. The dynamic nature of the operation of modern medical equipment may lead to harmonic distortion and other power quality issues. If connected to the public grid, healthcare facilities may also be exposed to power outages and voltage sags. Power quality issues affect the service quality of healthcare providers, their operating costs as well as patient safety and comfort.

The key benefits of improving power quality in hospitals include:

  • Higher service quality and patient comfort
  • Reduced malfunction of medical equipment
  • Energy savings
  • High process reliability and low operating costs
  • Extended lifetime of electrical equipment in the hospitals
  • Compliance with IEEE-519, G5/4, IEC61000 3-2, 3-4 and other power quality standards, recommendations and warranty demands

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For infrastructure demands

Fans, pumps, compressors and other heavy loads in modern infrastructure are often fed with variable speed drives to control the motors to save energy. Harmonic distortions are significantly higher in the presence of variable speed drives and often exceed the
limits defined in global power quality standards and recommendations. EMES multi-functional active filter can effectively bring the harmonic distortions to the desired limits and help comply with the standards. Its best in-class harmonic mitigation improves reliability and extends equipment life while reducing operation and investment costs.

Examples on infrastructure applications:

• Water and waste water treatment plants
• District cooling plants
• Tunnels
• Metro stations
• Traction
• Wind & Solar farms 

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Contact us today for advice about your unique operation

for Marine

Guaranteed harmonic compliance for Vessels

It’s no secret that ships operate on weak grids with large dynamic loads. Common power quality problems for ships, harbor cranes, and marine vessels are reactive power, imbalances, flicker, and harmonics—which can cause power failures and damage sensitive equipment.

A unique challenge for the marine industry is meeting the class requirements that define strict rules regarding harmonics. This is complicated by the increased use of variable-frequency drives (VFD), which are commonly used to conserve energy, but, as a side effect, enhance harmonics. In the past, the common low harmonic solution has been to compensate large loads individually through the use of AFE drives or multipulse drives with a phase-shifting transformer, but these solutions are unnecessarily heavy and complicated.

Adverse effects of harmonics in Maritime environment :
„ Limitations on supply and network utilization
„ Increased transformer, motor and cable heating
„ Reduced equipment lifetime
„ Costly equipment downtime
„ Control system malfunctions
„ Pulsating and reduced motor torque
„ Audible noise

The key benefits of improving power quality in marine applications include:

Secure compliance
The EMES active filter product range has been certified according to most marine standards, such as DNV GL, ABS, and BV.

Additionally, these regulatory bodies mandate THD (total harmonic distortion) limitations for operating vessels. Non-compliance comes with heavy fines or even a demand to cease operations. The highly dynamic capabilities of EMES APF technology make this solution ideal for achieving THD limits.

Take advantage of standard six-pulse drives
EMES APF can be applied to the main bus bar. Because of this, all loads in the systems can use standard six-pulse drives. There is no longer a need for different types of expensive and complicated front end units.
Standard six-pulse drives are less expensive and easier to source and service—not to mention reliable. Combined with the modular structure of APF, we enable dependable redundancy.

Fuel savings
A typical MPSV (multi-purpose supply vessel) consumes about 4,500 – 7,000 tons of fuel per year. The efficiency of typical diesel electric propulsion indicates that about 5% in losses occur through the active front-end (AFE) drives or multi-pulse drives.

If APF is implemented, the losses of energy compared to AFE are 30%-40% lower. And with reduced energy demands comes decreased fuel consumption.

Double the mean time between failure of large drive functions
With APF, you can expect your MTBF (mean time between failures) to double. Unlike AFE (active front-end drives), APF Power Tuning is connected in parallel (in shunt) with the drive on the bus bar, making drive function completely unaffected even in the face of a filter failure.

Simple and effective harmonic mitigation
By applying a stack of filter modules on the main bus bar, we eliminate the need for THD compensation on individual drives. And the modular central filtering units keep the harmonics on the bus bar within class requirements.

Easy and effective retrofitting of drive equipment
A common problem when installing drives on an existing vessel is the increase in harmonics on the ship’s grid. This can be especially disruptive because the grid is often not sized for such changes in electrical loads. Additionally, there is often a space constraint, making it challenging to fit conventional low harmonic drives, particularly large AFE drives.

While the common solution to this issue has been to use AFE drives or multi-pulse transformers for large loads, with EMES APF, the filter is decoupled from the drives. This makes it possible to be placed anywhere and greatly simplifies installation, providing flexibility in decision-making and space-utilization. 

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Contact us today for advice about your unique operation

for Oil and gas industry

Reliable and stable power quality is crucial for efficient operations and safety when it comes to land rigs, offshore drilling rigs, drill ships, and other oil and gas installations.

Offshore oil rigs require specialized energy-intensive equipment. This advanced machinery comes at a high capital investment and has high energy demands.

Minimizing oil and gas recovery costs while maintaining the highest standards of worker safety are two of the industry’s greatest challenges.

Similar to the shipping industry, offshore installations, land rigs, and Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODUs), etc. are mandated to meet requirements for total harmonic distortion (THD).

 

Harmonic compensation and other common issues

Offshore oil rigs require specialized energy-intensive equipment. This advanced machinery comes at a high capital investment and has high energy demands.

Minimizing oil and gas recovery costs while maintaining the highest standards of worker safety are two of the industry’s greatest challenges.

While AC drives increase precision, save energy and extend application lifetime, they also introduce harmonic currents to the on-board grid. If not kept under control, this can affect the performance and reliability of generators and other equipment and, ultimately, compromise safety. EMES offers harmonic mitigation solutions to comply with the regulations imposed by marine certification bodies, which state that harmonics must be kept to 5 or 8% total harmonic voltage distortion (THDv) on the main busbar.

The highly dynamic load character onboard modern offshore installations demand real time reactive power compensation to avoid voltage destabilization. Conventional power factor correction solutions are unable to answer to this demand in real-time. The new range of EMES multi-functional active filters are versatile solutions capable of providing several functionalities. They can inject fundamental reactive power in the network in real time, ensuring stable voltage. They can also be used to remove voltage unbalance in the network.

Adverse effects of harmonics in Offshore environment :
„ Limitations on supply and network utilization
„ Increased transformer, motor and cable heating
„ Reduced equipment lifetime
„ Costly equipment downtime
„ Control system malfunctions
„ Pulsating and reduced motor torque
„ Audible noise


The key benefits of improving power quality in marine applications include:

Secure Compliance
The EMES APF product range is certified according to most oil and gas standards, such as DNV GL, ABS, and BV.

Additionally, these governing bodies require THD (total harmonic distortion) limits for offshore oil and gas operations. Although it comes in a small, modular package, APF is strong enough to ensure you’ll meet the required standards for harmonic compensation.

The changing intensity onboard machines can lead to power surges, harmonics, or other problems that can trip alarms and shut down equipment. The capabilities of APF technology practically eliminate unnecessary trip alarms, so there is no need to waste time assessing false alarms typically triggered by poor power quality.

Extend equipment lifetime and efficiency
This reliable compensation solution ensures that unstable power is mitigated. This protects sensitive equipment and reduces the risk of equipment wear, expensive shutdowns, and replacement.

Reduce downtime and NPT (Non – Productive Time)
With high power quality, your equipment experiences extended lifetime.

With improved energy efficiency, you also optimize equipment functionality, minimize downtime, and reduce unplanned maintenance.

Save fuel
If APF is implemented, the losses of energy compared to AFE (Active Front End drives) are 30%-40% lower. And with reduced energy demands comes decreased fuel consumption.

Simple and centralized THD mitigation
By applying a stack of filter modules on the main bus bar, we eliminate the need for THD compensation on individual drives. And the modular central filtering units keep the harmonics on the bus bar within class requirements.

Stable and secure electric supply
Power for rigs is often produced by generators, which creates a weak, unstable electrical network. EMES APF technology works by actively compensating for these electrical disturbances, thereby improving the power quality and reliability of live and operational systems.

Space effective solutions
With limited space available onboard an offshore operation, you need to optimize the space you have. With its compact size and flexible installation options, APF will work with your existing infrastructure. 

Get a free consultation today
Contact us today for advice about your unique operation

For the WATER TREATMENT INDUSTRY

 

Water and waste water treatment plants are a key infrastructure element. Non-linear loads may affect their reliable operation. Non-linear loads in water treatment plants include variable frequency drives (VFDs), uninterrupted power supply (UPS), ozone generators, UV lights, computers and lighting. The process may be interrupted when harmonic current created by non-linear loads distorts the sine wave. The control circuitry of modern electrical equipment is designed for pure sinusoidal waveform. When operated under distorted waveform, repeated breakdown of sensitive electrical equipment will result in costly repairs. Critical loads in water and waste water treatment plants also require immunity against power outages and voltage sags.

Water and wastewater treatment involves the use of highly energy intensive processes that must be controlled with precision in order to maintain a safe and sanitary water supply.

Highly accurate, efficient and cost effective harmonic mitigation
One of the biggest challenges for the water and wastewater treatment industry is to save energy. Globally, water management accounts for 4% of all electricity consumption (International Energy Agency, 2014). The use of VSDs (variable speed drives) support water treatment plants in drastically reducing energy consumption, but they come with a cost. Although they help control the plant’s demanding processes, their use on fans, pumps, and other drives contribute to harmonics. When left uncompensated, harmonics have proven to cause problems such as overheating transformers, nuisance tripping, reducing equipment lifetime, etc.

Reduced downtime and increased redundancy
A chief concern in water treatment is the risk of contamination. These plants provide a critical function for societies around the world. And while this reliance is invisible when processes are working well, society definitely takes notice when something goes wrong. EMES APF helps prevent drastic problems such as equipment malfunction, unexplained interruptions, and unplanned stops.

Energy saving and increased efficiency
VSDs are crucial for running a water treatment plant, as well as reducing a plant’s energy consumption. APF enables the plant to run on VSDs without problems by essentially removing
 the problems that would hinder the VSDs from working their best.
And due to the ability to be installed in-parallel, APF technology enables lower energy losses than conventional compensation technology. 
For decades the common filter solution has been active front end (AFE), but there’s a modern solution that offers an improved competitive advantage. With active filter technology, you get a more compact solution that enables fewer losses and less total harmonic distortion (THD).The new EMES multi-functional APF is the most flexible and cost effective system available to help you achieve an LHD (Low Harmonic Drive).
APF can save you up to 40%* in total cost of ownership compared to AFE. It’s a versatile yet powerful solution that takes the hassle out of installation and operation.

Secure compliance
This low harmonic solution minimizes the effect that the facility’s heavy energy load will have on the grid—thereby helping you avoid fines or other legal repercussions due to non-compliance with electrical standards, such as IEEE, EN50160, FoL.

Prevent surges and transient with improved power quality – AVE Hybrid
By combining the AVE and the multi-functional E or H series active filters, the AVE-Hybrid is capable of controlling both
current and voltage, making it capable of addressing almost all known power quality related problems. The unit monitors and compensates imperfect power in the grid at the speed of the current to prevent power surges and transients that can damage monitoring or control systems in automated plants. Thanks to this active and dynamic monitoring, production can continue smoothly.

Get a free consultation today
Contact us today for advice about your unique operation

HARMONICS IN THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Harmonic currents are one of the most important factors affecting network quality in installations.Harmonics are distorted electrical waveforms that introduce inefficiencies into your electrical system. They produce wasteful heat and can cause plant issues and fees from your local power company.

Harmonic frequencies flow into the electrical system as a result of nonlinear electronic switching devices, such as variable frequency drives (VFDs), computer power supplies and energy-efficient lighting. Similarly, companies with heavy motor, VFD and lighting loads need to be aware of the problems that harmonics can cause. 

These problems include:

  • Increased electrical usage
  • Increased wear and tear on motors/equipment
  • Higher maintenance costs
  • Power quality problems upstream and downstream
  • Utility penalties for introducing problems to the power grid

WHAT CAUSES THE HARMONICS IN THE FIRST PLACE?

New technologies provide new advantages, but also new problems

In recent years, substantial growth in the number of electronic devices designed to equip our installations has resulted in significant changes in the types of loads connected to the power distribution system.
These devices are currently equipped with electronics that in one way or another increase the efficiency of the tasks, production processes and activities we perform.

Everyone uses computers for personal use or for
processing and controlling production systems with speed drives, air conditioning units, lifts that slow down when approaching their destination floor, etc.

These devices are equipped with rectifiers, modulators, etc., which distort the wave shape of the current to achieve their correct operation. All in all, these devices and units have definitely improved our quality of life; however, they also lead to greater contamination of our electric system and thus to high levels of harmonics.

More examples of equipment with nonlinear loads are:

  • Static transducers (rectifier devices, variable speed drives, soft starters, battery chargers…)
  • Single-phase electronic equipment such as computers, printers, programmable logic controllers, etc. Internally, they operate with direct current and have a filter capacitor and a rectifier at the input.
  • Lighting installations with discharge lamps.
  • Arc furnaces and welding equipment.
  • Transformers and reactors with iron core, and non-linear magnetization

Effects of harmonic

The introduction of harmonic frequencies into the power system can cause a myriad of technical and financial problems including:

  • Increase in installation and utility costs
  • Reduced production speed
  • Increased energy consumption
  • Fees for reactive power consumption
  • Stalled production
  • Damaged or malfunctioning equipment
  • Idling personnel, stalled production
  • Reduced equipment lifetime
  • Loss of data

In addition to the direct impacts above, poor power quality often negatively impacts business costs. Such as with:

  • Rework
  • Increasing start-up costs
  • Postponed revenues
  • Reduced cash flow
  • Poor reputation among customers
  • Loss of market share

Financial and technical repercussions of harmonics

main consequences of current harmonics are:

Conductor overload

An increase in the effective current may cause currents flowing through the conductors to exceed their maximum acceptable limit, requiring an increased cross-section if the effect caused by the harmonic currents has not been accounted for. This problem may be particularly important for neutral conductors, since triplen harmonics (odd order, multiple of 3: 3, 9, 15), primarily caused by single-phase loads, cause harmonic currents to return through the neutral, all adding up together as one. It is essential to control over current levels in the neutral, as excessive heating can cause serious degradation, even to the point of the neutral cutting off unless properly controlled. Neutral cut-off would lead to permanent over voltage in the network, destroying equipment that is not suitably protected for such cases.

Triggering of protections

The effective current flowing through conductors may be seriously affected by an increase in current caused by harmonics in the installation, and may even exceed circuit-breaker temperature limits, thereby causing them to trigger. Although it is more unlikely, the presence of harmonics in circuit-breakers, due to their magnetic protection, may cause them to trigger, if the current’s waveform crest factor exceeds the limit. High crest factors are often found in single-phase loads such as computers or discharge lighting. Harmonic currents have an indirect effect on RCCB triggering, since they flow through circuit breakers and do not directly cause them to trigger. On the other hand, it does mean that network behaviour upstream of the circuit-breaker has high impedance against harmonic currents, causing them to flow through parasitic capacitances or capacitance devices connected to earth (EMC filters), increasing the level of leakage found in the earth leakage device, thereby causing unwanted tripping.

Derating of transformers

The presence of harmonics in the network increases hysteresis loss values and losses due to eddy currents in the transformers, increasing their operating temperature, which, in turn, reduces their useful life. This causes transformers affected by harmonic currents to suffer derating, that is, reduction in the power at which they can operate without causing overheating.

Resonance and overload of capacitor banks

Capacitors are components that may display parallel resonance with the inductive behaviour of the transformer and cabling of the installation’s power supply. This resonance greatly increases the unit’s impedance to a given frequency that varies depending on the power of the capacitor bank or the power supply’s impedance characteristics. Due to these characteristics of capacitor components, together with the presence of harmonics in the network, the installation may be affected by two detrimental phenomena:

  • Firstly, an increase in voltage distortion rate in any section of the installation affected by the resonance, which may affect other loads.
  • On the other hand, the capacitors themselves and other components in the capacitor bank, such as operating elements, may suffer damage as a result of their lower impedance against harmonic currents and high voltage distortion rate, leading to increased capacitor current consumption and possible capacitor burn-out.

Main problems regarding voltage harmonics:

Zero-crossing disturbances

Many electronic devices have controllers that trigger load operation when voltage crosses zero. This is used to minimise switching current peaks in many inductive loads, thereby reducing the negative effects on electromagnetic compatibility levels. In the event of voltage distortion, such devices may operate incorrectly, causing them to break down, enter a loop, reset, etc.

Effect on induction motors

Induction motors will suffer higher losses from an increase in parasitic currents. Furthermore, depending on the rotation sequences induced by the magnetic fields caused by voltage harmonics, the motor may suffer accelerations (positive sequence), braking (negative sequence), or both simultaneously, causing vibrations and eccentricities leading to mechanical wear of components. Derating of motors compared to voltage distortion rate is described in EN 60034-12 and NEMA MG1. In short, the factors identified lead to a loss of torque in the motor and reduced performance.

 

Common Harmonic Loads

Variable Frequency Drives (VFD/VSD)
Most common APF application
Typical harmonic orders: : 5th, 7th , 11th

VFD is a common non linear load, and as a result of the rectification / inversion process is that these non-linear loads produce significant levels of harmonics. The level of harmonic current produced by variable frequency drives can be in excess of 40%.

Built-in mitigation strategies are available (AC input cokes for example), which will offer a reduction of 20-25% in levels of harmonic current, but these are often left out of the specification – perhaps due to budget constraints, perhaps due to there being no pre-installation assessment.

Regardless, even with AC input chokes, if an installation consists of a significant number of drives, the remaining 15-20% of harmonic current of multiple drives can combine to cause a significant level of total harmonic distortion (THD).

The new EMES multi-functional APF is the most flexible and cost effective system available to help you achieve an LHD (Low Harmonic Drive). APF can save you up to 40%* in total cost of ownership compared to AFE (Active Front End – VSD). It’s a versatile yet powerful solution that takes the hassle out of installation and operation. 

Rectifying devices — the largest harmonic loads
Typical harmonic orders:
5th, 7th (6-pulse rectifier); 11th, 13th (12-pulse rectifier);

Electric Arc Furnace —
the most difficult harmonic load to handle
Typical harmonic orders: : 5th, 7th , 11th

The nature of the steel melting process is uncontrollable, current harmonics generated by arc furnaces are unpredictable and random.Current chopping and igniting in each half cycle of the supply voltage, arc furnaces generate a wide range of harmonic frequencies

Low harmonic drive (LHD)

If you have a number of drives (also referred to as variable-speed motor drives) on site, you are generating electrical disturbances. These disturbances include network unbalance, flicker, and especially harmonics, not to mention the risk of regulatory non-compliance. Those working in the marine, offshore, and water treatment industries are especially vulnerable to these problems.
APF VS Competitiors 

For decades the common filter solution has been active front end (AFE), but there’s a modern solution that offers an improved competitive advantage. With active filter technology, you get a more compact solution that enables fewer losses and less total harmonic distortion (THD).

The new EMES multi-functional APF is the most flexible and cost effective system available to help you achieve an LHD (Low Harmonic Drive).

And there’s no comparison when it comes to price:
APF can save you up to 40% in total cost of ownership compared to AFE. It’s a versatile yet powerful solution that takes the hassle out of installation and operation.

Compared to other power quality technologies, APF provides a solution that is hard to beat. It is an efficient system that leads to low losses, but more than that, it provides a reliable tool box that can seamlessly address a variety of disturbances, from THD to flicker.

And while most power quality products can help you meet regulations in some sense, we do that with a lighter, more compact solution. The modular structure of APF also allows for flexibility for the future and adaptability for your specific project.


Use the APF technolgy to your advatage

Because APF components can be combined with a drive to create the ultimate low harmonic solution, it’s ideal for system integrators or OEMs (original equipment manufacturers). EMES can give you the components you need to succeed in any application.

Since the requirements for maintaining low harmonics (such as IEEE 519, G5/4, and EN61000-2-2) are getting tougher, low harmonic solutions have become a hot topic within many industries.

Make make sure your operation is compliant. 
Contact us
 now for a free consultation.

Harmonic analysis study

A harmonic analysis study quantifies the harmonic condition in an electrical system and evaluates the mitigation methods. At EMES, we conduct harmonic analysis studies following proven methods of the latest international standards as well as our own best practices developed from solving harmonic issues across a broad range of industrial and commercial power systems. We also include a full power quality analysis, giving our customers a total overview of the power quality status.

Why should you measure power quality?

You can’t change what you can’t see.

EMES Harmonic Analysis / Power Quality Survey
allow you to see and analyze your power quality and reveal hidden problems which can affect multiple aspects of your business. Power quality issues may not always be easy to spot but these hidden problems can affect multiple aspects of your business, with a long list of destructive and costly effects.
Poor power quality may reduce efficiency, cause higher utility and energy costs, and cause expensive downtime.

With EMES power quality measurement, you can identify and analyze power quality problems like voltage interruptions, sags, harmonics etc. in order to ensure your electrical systems run smoothly.

Gaining power quality intelligence and control will help improve operations, reduce downtime, extend asset life, improve energy efficiency and lower costs.

A few indicators a harmonic study is needed

 

You plan to add power factor correction capacitors to avoid utility penalties
 
Your transformers are overheating, controls are locking up or capacitor banks are blowing fuses or capacitors

 

You plan to install new VFDs as part of an upgrade or new process installation

Read more about EMES Power Quality Analysis here.

Considering a harmonic analysis study?
If you are considering a harmonic analysis study for your facility, EMES could be of service. To get more information, send an email to an EMES power quality expert today!

Safe and intelligent design

Thanks to the device’s inbuilt, low-maintenance systems, the product’s service needs are kept to a minimum

The EMES APF range has a variety of systems to guarantee filter safety during operation:

  • Protection system to prevent start-up if there is a problem
  • Anti-resonance system: the device is designed to bypass specific frequencies where resonance is detected
  • Smart thermal management system: fan speed and power regulation under high temperature conditions
  • Safe mode activation in case of fault detection
  • The device performs a self-test providing human-readable error and information messages. Problems in the installation can be quickly and directly detected by the APF. This makes the commissioning process fast, simple, safe and gives immediate results.

 

Protect your system from resonance

Maintaining a reliable supply free from resonance and instability is the biggest challenge for an active harmonic filter. The EMES APF utilize the very latest digital control technology and applies a unique Intelligent FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) algorithm where the APF analyses the current spectrum at 1024 individual points per cycle. The APF avoids resonance by effectively ‘learning’ each individual harmonic system impedance when first turned on.

Compensation current is slowly increased for each harmonic frequency with the APF constantly monitoring the stability of the network. Should resonance occur at any point on any harmonic then APF IFFT skips the problematic point. Even stable electrical systems change – loads change, impedance values change – so resonance points change too. APF constantly monitors for resonance and will avoid new resonance points as they occur.

COMPREHENSIVE MONITORING AND REPORTING features


Easy to Use Graphical User Interface
EMES APF come with advanced and comprehensive monitoring & reporting features. They enable before and after analysis by providing you with data of harmonic distortions from both supply and load side. The Easy to use high quality colour display allows the device to be configured and its installation status shown in real time.

In the APF monitoring system you can instantly view:

  • The power quality levels of your system
  • Your system status
  • The overall performance of the system
  • Power quality data
  • Phase order
  • Power levels
  • Harmonic spectrum
  • Waveforms
  • System configuration
  • Compensation configuration
  • Alarm and event history
  • Trigger events and warnings

Quick installation and easy step start-up.
The device just needs to be connected to the filter’s network and measurement transformers, configured using its touch screen and then started up. The device itself will check that start-up is safely carried out thanks to an internal self-diagnosis system.

Easy device configuration with clear, guided steps.
The harmonics to be filtered can be selected individually for optimum device operation

Rack and wall mounted modules
Can be equipped with 4,3″ high quality touch screen Easy to use, with displays on every unit
providing all system information including grid voltage, compensating current, grid current, load current, grid PF, load PF, alarm
code and operating status.

Cabinet based systems
Come complete with centralized 7” LED colour TFT touch screen. The HMI so you can see exactly what is happening with your complete system. In addition to the information available on the standard unit display you can view individual module temperatures, THDv, THDi, voltage waveforms, harmonic spectrum in real time.Information is displayed to the user in a very visual way by graphs and diagrams, so the behaviour of the installation and device may be instantly checked . The device also displays information for the 5 seconds prior to alarm activation to totally control installation status.

Optional
Remote access and wireless access point with integrated web server and 4G modem. (WiFi-4G-WAN-LAN)
Real-time, online, website monitoring of instantaneous values.
Data download without requiring any software.
Ethernet: TCP/IP, Modbus TCP.
Remote configuration and support of the device.

medium voltage and Special applications

 Medium voltage applications

EMES have extensive knowledge from MV applications and with utilizing our standard units and industry-proven low voltage Active Filter with a step up transformer to create medium voltage solutions.  If applied correctly, an active technology is very compact and flexible enabling high availability. EMES multifunctional modular design offers a high degree of redundancy and availability as the modules can be operated individually.
Large industrial loads, such as arc furnaces, welding equipment, rolling mills, and large induction motors used in various industries, significantly affect the stability and operation of the power system by causing flicker, voltage unbalance, and harmonic distortion.
With the ultra-fast response time of less than one millisecond, EMES active units ensure superb compensation of reactive power and harmonic distortion even for rapid varying large loads. The compensation increases the plant’s productivity and removes damaging power quality challenges like flicker and harmonic distortion.

Application areas include:
• Steel industry (Electric Arc Furnaces – voltage stabilization reduces tap-to-tap  time and electrode consumption.)
• Mining and heavy industry – dynamic reactive power compensation stabilizes the power system, especially on large motor start-up,       ensuring a reliable power system.
• Shredders and crushers
• Welding (Shipyards)
• Cement plants
• Cranes
• Renewables markets like solar farms, wind farms, solar panel installations
• Regulating voltage and reactive power in transmission and distribution lines

Custom projects and Special Applications

EMES delivers customized solutions tailored by your needs.
Examples on such customization could be harsh environment adoptions like, high temperature, salt and humid environment and special IP or certification requirements.

We also have long experience with containerized solutions, and we can provide tailored systems with plug and play functionality with all necessary accessories and certifications. 

 

AVE-Hybrid (AVE+APF - Best of two worlds)

By combining the AVE and the multi-functional E or H series active filters, the AVE-Hybrid is capable of controlling both
current and voltage, making it capable of addressing almost all known power quality related problems
we see today and guarantees an optimal protection and power quality in your plant. The active filter part of the hybrid solution ensures an accurate and effective removal of system harmonics, load balancing, and a dynamic real time power factor compensation.
The AVE part reacts with the speed of the current, mitigates fast switch transients and protects the installation against voltage surges. The unit also reduces voltage dips and its effects together with ensuring a clean and stable ground reference, which again will reduce the risk of control system lockups.
The AVE – Hybrid gives longer equipment lifetime, higher process reliability, improved power system capacity and stability, and reduced energy losses, complying with most demanding power quality standards and grid codes.

 

Technical Specifications

EMES new range of market leading active filters is compatible with all three-phase low voltage applications.  The multi-functional active filtering solution  brings reliability and efficiency to your electrical system, resulting in greater operational efficiency, prolonged equipment life and improved energy efficiency.

E-Series

E – Series – Multifunctional with cutting-edge performance
E-series multifunctional active filter gives you everything in a compact format. Although compact and cost-effective, the E-series  features cutting-edge performance including excellent and fully customizable harmonic mitigation capability. E-seires is the ideal active filter for small and medium size commercial and industrial loads. It is a powerhouse solution and the best choice for most applications because it is such a general purpose active filter.

  • Real-time dynamic VAR compensation
  • Excellent and fully customizable harmonic mitigation capability
  • Load balancing
  • Voltage control
  • Neutral filtering capability 
  • Ultra fast and accurate response
  • Idle mode during low load (Standby)
  • Non-over loadable
  • Anti resonance protection and self diagnostic system
  • Comprehensive monitoring system with high quality HMI
  • Compact, modular and scalable design
  • Wall-mounted, rack mounted and flexible cabinet solutions 

     

    Item

    EMES E-Series APF

    APF 25/35

    APF 50/60

    APF 75

    APF 100

    APF 150

    APF 300

    System Parameters

    Nominal voltage 400 V
    Voltage range 228 ~ 456 VAC
    Nominal frequency 50/60 Hz  (Auto frequency sensing)
    Parallel Modules Unlimited scalability – Unlimited parallel capacity -Load shared evenly between modules
    Efficiency ≥ 97 %
    System 3 Phase 4 wire/3 Phase 3 wire
    Current transformer 0 ~30,000/5
    Inverter topology EMES Three level topology

    Performance Indicators

    Capacity 25/35 A 50/60 A 75 A 100 A 150 A 300 A
    Harmonic comp. 2nd to 50th, selectable 
    Reactive power comp. Dynamic real time compensation. Adjustable (-1) – 1 
    Unbalance comp. Three Phase Load Balancing, Adjustable 0-100%
    Harmonics Compensation
    Range
    2nd ~ 50th order
    Harmonic Compensation Efficiency > 97 %
    Fast response time < 50 µs
    Overall response time < 5 ms
    Target PF -1 ~ 1 adjustment
    Control algorithm Real time digital control, All harmonics, FFT, intelligent FFT and instantaneous reactive power
    Switching frequency Average 20 kHz
    Cooling (Smart ventilation) 151 L/Sec 115 L/Sec 222 L/Sec 336 L/Sec 360 L/Sec 500 L/Sec
    Noise level < 56 dB < 65 dB < 75 dB

    Monitoring

    Communication port RS485 and Ethernet TCP IP port(RJ45) – Optional remote access package (Web-server – 4G-WAN-WiFi-LAN)
    Communication protocol Modbus, TCP/IP 
    Display interface 4.3-inch HMI(module), 7-inch HMI(central monitoring system), LED
    Safety features Intelligent safety and protection system – Self diagnostic , anti-resonance system and
    Smart thermal management system
    Event and alarm history Available

    Mechanical Characteristics

    Installation Wall mounted / Rack mounted / Cabinet
    Rack mount, LED (W*D*H) 440*490*150 500*515*180 500*546*190 500*575*200 500*605*269 500*722*370
    Rack mount, LCD (W*D*H) 440*490*150 500*515*180 500*586*190 500*605*200 500*630*269 500*722*370
    Wall mount, LCD
    (W*D*H)
    440*485*150 500*180*540 500*190*571 500*200*599 500*273*638 500*370*722
    Net Weight 18 kg 23 kg 28 kg 35 kg 44 kg 110 kg
    Colour Black

    Environmental Requirements

    Altitude ≤ 1500 m
    Operation temperature -10° ~ 40°C
    Relative humidity 5 % to 95 %, non-condensing
    Protection class IP20, other IP class could be customized
    Qualifications CE

 

EX-Series

EX – Series – unmatched efficiency and technology
One of the world’s fastest, flexible and most energy effective multifunctional active filters. The filter have an excellent harmonic mitigation capability along with a advanced real time dynamic reactive power compensation capability.  The EX series ultra-compact design and extreme low heat dissipation makes it suitable for space limited application and retrofit projects. The EX -series APF are designed for integration into our standard cabinets or to be used as a wall mounted or integrated stand-alone active filter.

Key Features:

  • Ultra high – 98,5% efficiency
  • Extreme low heat dissipation
  • Real-time dynamic VAR compensation
  • Excellent and fully customizable harmonic mitigation capability
  • Load balancing
  • Voltage control
  • Neutral filtering capability 
  • Ultra fast and accurate response
  • Idle mode during low load (Standby)
  • Non-over loadable
  • Anti resonance protection and self diagnostic system
  • Comprehensive monitoring system with high quality HMI
  • Compact, modular and scalable design 

Items

APF – EX-Series

Rating 150 A
Functionality Multifunctional – harmonic mitigation, dynamic VAR compensation (PFC),three-phase unbalance compensation, voltage control

System Parameters

Nominal voltage 380 V (-40 % ~ +20 %)
Nominal frequency 50/60 Hz, (Auto frequency sensing)
Parallel quantities Unlimited parallel capacity -Load shared evenly between modules
Efficiency ≥ 98,5 %
Connection type 3 Phase 3 wire / 3 Phase 4 wire

Performance Indicators

Control algorithm Real time digital control, All harmonics, FFT, intelligent FFT and instantaneous reactive power
Compensation order 2nd to 50th, selectable for each harmonic order, amplitude adjustment
Harmonic Compensation Efficiency > 99 %
Fast response time < 50 µs
Full response time < 5 ms
Target power factor Adjustable from -1 to +1
Switching frequency 20 kHz
Cooling air requirement 390CFM (PWM control 10 % to 100 %)
Noise level < 56 dB
Communication ports RS485 and Ethernet TCP IP port(RJ45) – Optional remote access package (Web-server – 4G-WAN-WiFi-LAN)​
Communication protocols Modbus RTU / TCP IP
Module display interface 4.3-inch HMI (module), 7-inch HMI (central monitoring system), LED
Protection functions Intelligent safety and protection system – Self diagnostic, anti-resonance system and Smart thermal management system
Mounting type Wall-mounted/Rack-mounted/Cabinet
Dimensions (W*D*H mm) 500*550*190
Net weight 35 kg
Storage temperature -40°C ~ 70°C
Operating ambient temperature -20°C ~ 45°C
Relative humidity 5 % to 95 %, non-condensing
Protection class IP20
Qualifications CE
Standards compliance IEEE519, EN 50160, ER G5/4, IEC 61000, FoL

H-Series

H-series – Demanding applications and harsh environments
H-series multifunctional active filters are customized for demanding applications and are available from voltage level up to 690V in both 3W and 4W applications. Equipped with state-of-the-art monitoring and reporting functionality, the robust H-series active filters operate in harsh environments and are easily scalable. H-series APF have UL-certificate of compliance.

Key Features:

  • Real-time dynamic VAR compensation
  • Excellent and fully customizable harmonic mitigation capability
  • Load balancing
  • Voltage control
  • Neutral filtering capability 
  • Voltage level up to 690V 
  • Ultra fast and accurate response
  • Idle mode during low load (Standby)
  • Non-over loadable
  • Anti resonance protection and self diagnostic system
  • Comprehensive monitoring system with high quality HMI
  • Wall-mounted, rack mounted and flexible cabinet solutions
  • Compact, modular and scalable design 

Items

480 V

600 V

690 V

25/35/50/60/75/100 25/35/50/60/75/100 25/35/50/60/75/100

System Parameter

Input phase voltage range 480 V (384 V – 552 V) 600 V (420 V – 690 V) 690 V (483 V – 793 V)
Power grid frequency 50/60 Hz (Auto frequency sensing)
Parallel operation Unlimited scalability – Unlimited parallel capacity -Load shared evenly between modules
Efficiency ≥ 97 %
Power grid structure 3P3W/3P4W
CT Ratio 150/5~30,000/5
Circuit topology EMES 3-Level Topology

Performance Indicator

Rated capacity 25/35/50/60/75/100 A
Functionality Harmonic compensation, Dynamic VAR compensation, Load Balancing
Control algorithm Real time digital control, All harmonics, FFT/Intelligent FFT/Instantaneous reactive power
Filtering range 2nd to 50th order
Harmonic Compensation Efficiency > 97 %
Reaction time < 50 µs
Overall response time < 5 ms
Target power factor Adjustable from -1 to +1
Switching frequency Average 20 kHz
Cooling air requirement For 25/35/50 A 725 CFM; For 60/75/100 A 761 CFM
Noise level < 65 dB

Communication & Monitoring Capability

Communication ports RS485 and Ethernet TCP IP port(RJ45) – Optional remote access package (Web-server – 4G-WAN-WiFi-LAN)​
Communication protocols MODBUS (RTU, TCP/IP)
Module display interface 7-inch LCD touch screen/LED (rack-mounted); 4.3-inch LCD touch screen (wall-mounted)
Protection functions Intelligent safety and protection system – Self diagnostic, anti-resonance system and Smart thermal management system
Event history Available
Alarm history Available

Mechanical Properties

Mounting type Wall-mount/Rack-mount/Cabinet
Dimensions (W*D*H) mm For 25/35/50 A
500*540*180 (Rack-mounted)        500*184*627 (Wall-mounted)
For 60/75/100 A
500*675*250 (Rack-mounted)        500*250*675 (Wall-mounted)
Module net weight 40 kg (25/35/50 A); 70 kg (60/75/100 A)
Color Black

Environment Requirement

Altitude ≤ 1500 m
Ambient temperature -20°C – 40°C  Derating of capasity if ambient temperature exceed 45°C
Relative humidity 5 % to 95 %, non-condensing
Protection class IP20

Related Qualifications & Standards

Qualifications CE, cULus, DNV/BV
Standards compliance IEEE519, ER G5/4, IEC61000