Optimization of filter-compensating device parameters: a case study of an agricultural machinery manufacturing plant

Modern enterprises of the agro-industrial complex face the problem of poor power quality caused by harmonic distortions of non-linear loads, such as frequency converters and thyristors. This leads to increased losses in networks, reduced equipment efficiency, and violations of GOST 32144-2013 requirements. The study aims to develop a methodology to calculate optimal parameters of filter-compensating devices (FCD) in the Mathcad software environment to minimize harmonics and improve energy efficiency in agricultural machinery manufacturing enterprises. The study has used current and voltage spectrum monitoring data of an agricultural machinery manufacturin plant and numerical simulations in Mathcad. Two FCD configurations have been analyzed: a narrowband filter tuned to the 5th harmonic and a third-order broadband link tuned to the 7th or 11th harmonic. The capacity of the FCD is selected taking into account the load dynamics (up to 5,860 kVAr), which reduces losses by 20–25 %. To assess the need for reactive power compensation measures, the authors have analyzed the values of three-phase power consumed by the load and the average power factor of the three phases. For each measurement interval the required compensation power has been calculated and it reaches 5860 kvar. To evaluate the impact of current harmonics on the network and other consumers, phase total harmonic distortion (THD) graphs for voltage have been plotted. The study has revealed that the 5th and 11th harmonics are predominant. Two of the most feasible filter-compensating device configurations have been compared. The optimal configuration has to be tuned to the 5th and 7th harmonics, reducing the total distortion factor KU to 2,3–2,8 % without resonance phenomena. The alternative option (5th and 11th harmonics) has shown an increase in KU and KU above the standards. The proposed methodology adapts FCD parameters to the specific needs of an enterprise ensuring compliance with power quality standards. The obtained experimental data allow us to recommend a hybrid system with dynamic tuning for complex loads. The results are applicable in agricultural machinery manufacturing to enhance power supply quality and energy efficiency.