Contribution of a power multivector to distorting load identification

The identification of harmonic generating loads and the assignation of responsibility for harmonic pollution is an important first step for harmonic control in modern power systems. In this paper, a previously introduced power multivector is examined as a possible tool for the identification of such loads. This representation of power is based on the mathematical framework of Geometric Algebra (GA). Components of the power multivector derived at the point of connection of a load are grouped into a single quantity, which is a bivector in GA and is characterized by a magnitude, direction and sense. The magnitude of this bivector can serve as an indicator of the distortion at the terminals of the load. Furthermore, in contrast to indices based solely on magnitude, such as components derived from any apparent power equation, the proposed bivectorial representation can differentiate between loads that enhance distortion and those with a mitigating effect. Its conservative nature permits an association between the distortion at specific load terminals and the common point of connection. When several loads connected along a distribution line are considered, then an evaluation of the impact of each one of these loads on the distortion at a specific point is possible. Simulation results confirm that information included in the proposed bivector can provide helpful guidance when quantities derived from apparent power equations deliver ambiguous results.