Mitigation of Harmonics in Alternating Current (AC) Circuits

1. Training Introduction

Harmonics in AC circuits are a major cause of equipment overheating, excessive losses, malfunctioning of sensitive devices, power quality deterioration, and reduced system efficiency. With the proliferation of nonlinear loads such as variable frequency drives (VFDs), inverters, switching power supplies, and modern electronic devices, mitigating harmonics has become essential for safe, reliable, and efficient power system operation.

This training provides participants with a detailed understanding of harmonic generation, effects, analysis techniques, standards, measurement tools, and practical strategies for mitigation. Through real-world case studies, simulations, and hands-on exercises, participants learn to diagnose harmonic problems and design effective mitigation solutions for industrial, commercial, and utility power systems.

 

2. Training Objective

The programme aims to equip participants with the skills to:

• Understand the origin, behaviour, and impacts of harmonics in AC circuits.
• Identify harmonic sources and conduct accurate harmonic analysis.
• Apply IEEE and IEC standards for harmonic limits and compliance.
• Utilize measurement instruments and simulation software to assess harmonic distortion.
• Apply appropriate harmonic mitigation strategies, such as filters, multi-pulse converters, and passive/active solutions.
• Optimize system design to reduce harmonic distortion and improve power quality.
• Ensure equipment reliability, energy efficiency, and compliance with power quality requirements.

 

3. Targeted Group

This training is intended for:

• Electrical engineers and technicians
• Power quality engineers and consultants
• Utility engineers and technical operations staff
• Industrial maintenance and facility engineers
• Designers of electrical distribution systems
• Renewable energy and inverter system engineers
• Control and automation engineers
• Students and trainees in electrical power and power quality studies

 

4. Course Duration

10–12 Days, depending on delivery mode:

• Intensive Workshop: 10 days
• Full Professional Programme with Practical Labs: 12 days
• Online/Blended Format: Flexible pacing with virtual simulations and assignments

 

5. Training Methodology

The programme uses a practical, analytical, and application-focused approach:

• Instructor-led theoretical sessions
• Hands-on harmonic measurement with analyzers/meters
• Harmonic simulation using software (MATLAB, ETAP, DIgSILENT, etc.)
• Case studies from industrial and utility systems
• Group exercises and applied design challenges
• End-of-module quizzes and a final harmonic mitigation design project

 

6. Course Content

Module 1: Fundamentals of Harmonics in AC Circuits

• Sinusoidal vs. non-sinusoidal waveforms
• Harmonic generation and harmonic spectra
• Linear vs. nonlinear loads

Module 2: Effects of Harmonics on Power Systems

• Overheating, losses, capacitor failures
• Resonance and interference with control systems
• Neutral overloading, transformer derating

Module 3: Standards & Power Quality Guidelines

• IEEE 519 harmonic limits
• IEC standards
• Utility compliance requirements

Module 4: Harmonic Sources in Industrial & Commercial Systems

• VFDs, UPS, rectifiers, variable loads
• Renewable energy inverters
• Office electronics and HVAC systems

Module 5: Harmonic Analysis Methods & System Modelling

• Fourier analysis
• Total harmonic distortion (THD) assessment
• Modal and frequency domain analysis

Module 6: Harmonic Measurement Tools and Techniques

• Power quality analyzers and oscilloscopes
• Data logging and waveform capture
• Measurement procedures and reporting

Module 7: Passive Filter Design & Application

• Single-tuned filters
• High-pass filters
• Multi-stage passive filter installations

Module 8: Active Filtering & Hybrid Solutions

• Active Harmonic Filters (AHFs)
• Hybrid filtering solutions
• Installation and commissioning considerations

Module 9: Multi-Pulse and Transformer-Based Mitigation Strategies

• 12-pulse and 18-pulse rectifiers
• Phase-shifting transformers
• Delta-wye and zig-zag configurations

Module 10: System-Level Mitigation Strategies

• Load balancing
• Equipment derating
• Resonance avoidance and system reconfiguration

Module 11: Harmonic Mitigation in Renewable Energy & Distributed Systems

• Solar PV inverters, wind turbines
• Battery energy storage system impacts
• Standards and grid-code compliance

Module 12: Capstone Project – Harmonic Mitigation System Design

• Site assessment and harmonic diagnosis
• Selection and design of mitigation solutions
• Simulation, reporting, and presentation of results

 

7. Expected Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Understand harmonic behavior and its impacts on AC circuits.
• Conduct harmonic measurements and analyze THD and distortion sources.
• Apply IEEE/IEC standards for harmonic compliance.
• Design and implement passive, active, and hybrid mitigation solutions.
• Evaluate harmonic issues in renewable energy systems and nonlinear loads.
• Identify and prevent resonance, overheating, and power quality deterioration.
• Optimize electrical network layouts for reduced harmonic distortion.
• Produce technical reports and mitigation plans with simulation evidence.

 

8. Certificate of Completion

Participants who complete all 12 modules, practical sessions, assessments, and the mitigation design project will receive:

Certificate of Completion

Mitigation of Harmonics in Alternating Current Circuit

Issued by FOTADE Training, Research and Resource Development Centre

This certificate recognizes the participant’s advanced competency in diagnosing, analyzing, and mitigating harmonic distortion in AC electrical systems.