In Europe legislation is very firm about harmonics. No manufacturer is allowed to sell equipment which generates harmonics above a predetermined safe level and every user is responsible and accountable to make sure no harmonic contamination is added to the grid as a result of their equipment and practices.

South Africa seems to have the legislation in place but not the application. The penalty will either hit us in the very near future or our children will have pay for it.

Why do I send you this article?

Before buying machines or equipment with some electronic control, contact Efficient Electrical Energy Management and let`s discuss the harmonic distortion potential

The supplier of that equipment is obliged to give you the specifications which shows the harmonic distortion levels

You may have losses and problems with repairs and maintenance which is costing a lot in terms of profit lost and expenses, not knowing that harmonics is the culprit

Harmonics filtering is very expensive and in many cases, Efficient Electrical Energy Management can mostly solve the problem without using harmonic filters and at a much lower cost as well

Start measuring power quality parameters such as harmonics, all 3 phases volts amps kvar, kw and log it, so that you have the information at hand for expert analysis. The cost of measuring by external experts is huge and it does not solve the problem because machines and equipment changes all the time and since you also receive harmonic contamination from the neighboring factories or businesses

Make power quality monthly reporting, part of your management report. This is something which management can use and understand once they are informed, you do not need to be an electrician or engineer to understand and use this information

Contact Cobus Verster to discuss your power quality needs and risks and how to address the risks.

Yours sincerely,

Cobus Verster.
(Managing Member)