A Harmonics Audit is a detailed study of an electrical system to measure harmonic distortion levels, identify sources of harmonics, and recommend solutions to maintain power quality as per standards.
Harmonics Audit
Harmonics Audit
PurityElec specializes in identifying and eliminating harmful electrical distortions that affect the reliability and efficiency of your power system. Our Harmonics Audit service helps industries maintain a clean, stable, and safe power supply — reducing downtime, improving performance, and extending equipment lifespan.
What are Harmonics?
Harmonics are unwanted frequency components in the electrical supply caused by non-linear loads such as VFDs (Variable Frequency Drives), UPS systems, SMPS devices, LED lighting, and electronic equipment. These distortions travel through your power network, causing overheating, energy loss, and equipment malfunctions.
Why a Harmonics Audit is Important
• Reduces Equipment Damage – Protects motors, transformers, and sensitive devices.
• Lowers Energy Costs – Minimizes losses caused by distorted waveforms.
• Improves Power Quality – Ensures stable and reliable operation.
• Compliance – Meets IEEE, IEC, and other industry standards.
Our Harmonics Audit Process
1. Site Survey & Data Collection – Using precision power quality analyzers.
2. Measurement & Monitoring – Recording harmonic levels over time.
3. Analysis & Reporting – Identifying the sources and impact of harmonics.
4. Recommendations & Solutions – Designing mitigation plans like harmonic filters or load balancing.
5. Implementation & Verification – Ensuring post-solution performance improvements.
Common Sources of Harmonics
• Variable Speed Drives (VSD/VFD)
• UPS Systems
• LED Lighting & Electronic Ballasts
• Computer & Server Loads
• Arc Furnaces and Industrial Heaters
Solutions We Provide
• Active Harmonic Filters – Real-time harmonic correction.
• Passive Filters – Targeted harmonic reduction.
• Load Redistribution – Balancing loads to reduce distortion.
• System Optimization – Upgrades and configuration changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q1. What is a Harmonics Audit?
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Q2. Why are harmonics harmful in electrical systems?Harmonics cause equipment overheating, nuisance tripping, increased energy losses, poor power factor, malfunction of sensitive devices, and higher electricity bills.
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Q3. Who needs a Harmonics Audit?Industries or facilities with large non-linear loads like VFDs, UPS systems, rectifiers, arc furnaces, data centers, textile mills, steel plants, and commercial complexes.
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Q4. How often should a Harmonics Audit be performed?At least once every 2–3 years, or whenever new non-linear loads are added to the system.
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Q5. What parameters are measured in a Harmonics Audit?
- • Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) in voltage and current
- • Individual harmonic orders (3rd, 5th, 7th, 11th, etc.)
- • Power factor and load profile
- • Neutral current and transformer loading
- • Resonance conditions
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Q6. What standards are referred to in a Harmonics Audit?
- • IEEE 519 (Recommended Practice and Requirements for Harmonic Control)
- • IEC 61000 series (Electromagnetic Compatibility)
- • Local utility regulations on power quality
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Q7. Does the audit only measure harmonics?No. It also assesses the impact on equipment, power factor correction devices, transformers, cables, and overall power quality.
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Q8. How is a Harmonics Audit conducted?
- • Site inspection & load study
- • Installation of power quality analyzers for monitoring
- • Data collection over a period (hours/days)
- • Analysis of harmonic levels & sources
- • Recommendation of corrective solutions
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Q9. What tools/instruments are used?
- • Power Quality Analyzer
- • Harmonic Analyzer
- • Clamp meters with THD measurement capability
- • Thermal imagers (to check overheating due to harmonics)
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Q10. What do we get after the audit?A detailed report including:
- • Harmonic measurement results
- • Compliance status against IEEE/IEC limits
- • Source identification of harmonic distortion
- • Recommendations (AHF, filters, load balancing, equipment resizing)
- • Cost-benefit analysis of solutions
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Q11. What are the benefits of a Harmonics Audit?
- • Improved equipment reliability and life span
- • Reduced downtime and failures
- • Lower energy losses and electricity costs
- • Compliance with utility/grid standards
- • Better power factor and reduced penalties
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Q12. What corrective measures are recommended after a Harmonics Audit?
- • Active Harmonic Filters (AHF)
- • Passive tuned filters (L-C filters)
- • Detuned capacitors
- • Load segregation and balancing
- • Upgradation of cables/transformers