Harmonics
Harmonics With the increasing use of power electronics and non-linear loads such as variable-speed drives, computers and other IT equipment, uninterruptable power supplies, or arc welding for example, the power system is getting more and more polluted. This is causing power quality problems such as harmonic distortion, low power factor, unbalance and flicker among other disturbances. The focus of this article is harmonic distortion. Power electronic and non-linear loads draw distorted currents due to the switching nature of the equipment. The distorted current is composed of a...
Read MoreVariable Speed Drives
What is a variable speed drive ? A variable speed drive varies the motor’s frequency and voltage to control its speed. The basic schematic of a variable speed drive system is shown in Figure 1. It normally consists of an AC/DC converter and an output DC/AC PWM controlled three phase output. When using a variable speed drive correctly one can obtain very accurate speed control of the electrical motor leading to: better process control, less wear in the mechanical equipment, less acoustic noise and, significant energy savings. Harmonics in Variable Speed Drive Systems: Variable...
Read MorePower Factor Correction
Power Factor Correction? Most loads employed in industry such as induction motors, transformers, light ballasts and induction heating furnaces are predominantly inductive. Such loads draw two kinds of power: Active power (kW) to perform work Reactive power (kVAr) to build the magnetic field. The active and reactive power make up the total power – apparent power measured in kVA. Reactive power is considered as wasted energy as it does not contribute to useful work. The relationship between the three power quantities can be explained using the power triangle as shown in Figure 1. The...
Read MoreMotor Energy Efficiency
Energy Efficiency in Electrical Motors Motor energy efficiency is a measure of the effectiveness with which a motor can convert electrical energy into output mechanical energy on its shaft. The motor efficiency is defined as the ratio of motor power output to electrical power input at the terminals. The difference between the input and output power is due to electrical and mechanical losses. Electrical motors of higher power rating have higher energy efficiency ratings, however this does not mean that one should use a higher rated motor for a given operating power. On the other...
Read MorePower Quality Audits
Power Quality Audit A power quality audit consists of the inspection of an electrical system to ensure its reliable, efficient and safe operation. Network and power quality analysers are used to detect and record any disturbances in the electrical installation. Typical problems that can be detected are voltage drop and flicker, low power factor, harmonic distortion, voltage transients and imbalance in an electrical system. Failing to timely address any of these disturbances might lead to tripping, reduced lifetime or damaged equipment. Following a power quality audit, our clients will...
Read MoreEnergy Audits
Energy Audit An energy audit is an exercise that is carried out to give our clients a thorough picture of where energy is being used and/or lost. We provide this service to domestic, commercial and industrial premises. Our team will evaluate the building facility, the energy bills, lighting and equipment and the operating hours. In commercial and industrial facilities a detailed energy audit is normally recommended. This entails monitoring and recording of energy data. At the end of an energy audit, our clients will be presented with a report of the findings and any analysis that was...
Read MoreRenewable Energy Consulting
Renewable Energy Consulting We offer renewable energy consulting on systems that can include small scale PV systems up to PV solar farms and energy storage or their combination. The design includes recommendations of PV and Storage technologies, sizing of equipment such as inverters and batteries, selection of appropriate cables sizes, estimation of the expected generation and return of investment...
Read MoreLighting Design
Lighting Design During lighting design appropriate software is used to meet our clients’ needs according to the application. Throughout the design stage our team takes into account energy efficiency and ensures that the appropriate lighting technologies are employed. The design can also include automated control of lighting systems for ambience control, security and energy saving measures. We are fully equipped to carry out indoor and outdoor light measurements. Our team can also offer design of decorative and outdoor lighting systems and even street...
Read MoreElectrical Installation
Electrical Installation Our services include the design, testing and certification of single and three phase electrical installations according to the IET wiring regulations. We provide our clients with detailed CAD drawings of the electrical services (Lighting, Power and Communications). In order to reduce delays, application for services and liaison with service providers such as the Electricity and Water Corporations and the Communication services providers can be carried out. In the best interest of our clients we also offer the service of our trusted contractor to perform the...
Read MoreHigh Voltage Design
High Voltage Design As opposed to low voltage, high voltage designs are typically unique to their application and requires highly qualified engineers. Our team offers substation, protection and distribution system design for commercial and industrial facilities.
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