Application of static var compensator with harmonic filters in the heavy industry

Abstract

Utility companies use Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) to improve the power quality at load end closer to furnaces, steel plants and mining facilities in order to avoid the generating of reactive power through field excitation of generator as this reduces the efficiency of the power grid network. In this paper the focus is on application of static var compensator (SVC) with shunt filters on Waterval chrome mine network in order to improve the voltage level and reduce the total harmonic content within internal point of common coupling (IPCC) where nonlinear loads are connected. Power quality scans were performed with reference to the NRS 048 regulations. The network was modeled and analysed using the DIgSILENT Power Factory 2018 and a comparison was done using both results. The investigation provided evidence of compliant in terms of voltage harmonics and voltage compatibility levels at common point of coupling (PCC). Reactive power over compensation was noted due to nonadaptive absolute fixed capacitor banks. The results were coherent with the simulated mine network, but a significant voltage drops downstream at IPCC where nonlinear loads are connected caused deviation in harmonics with reference to IEEE 519 standard. In addition, it was discovered that the more rectifier nonlinear devices connected to a load bus, the more the voltage total harmonic distortion in which mitigation was implemented using shunt filters. The significant voltage drop that was noted from the simulated network downstream was improved using static var system.