Question

Explain the importance of quality of electricity supplied to driven machines.

Answer 1

With the introduction and widespread use of sensitive electronic equipment, energy users have become much more aware and sensitive to transients and other power anomalies. Previously, equipment was fairly immune to short-term power fluctuations and did not project problems back into the utility’s system. Now, with the introduction of nonlinear devices, harmonics are created which can affect the customer’s equipment and the utility’s equipment. The utility is no longer just providing power to turn lights on and start motors. As a result, there has been an increase of problems experienced by electrical end-users. To determine the source of these issues, there are available means for customers, utilities, and consultants to easily monitor, record, and analyze the electric power. Based on the source of the problem, power treatment methods are available to cure or limit the problems.