ABB's ultra-low harmonic (ULH) drives are designed with built-in harmonic avoidance systems and comply with IEC 61000-3-12, IEEE 519 and G5/4 harmonics recommendations. Compared to other harmonic mitigation solutions, the problems caused by harmonics are avoided in the first place. ULH drives have excellent performance technology built-in, including active supply unit and integrated low harmonic line filter. There is no need for external harmonic filters or multi-pulse transformers, leading to significant savings in installation footprint.

Our ultra-low harmonic drives offering

Low harmonic content

Our ultra-low harmonic drive produces exceptionally low harmonic content and exceeds requirements set by low harmonic standards. Compared to a conventional drive, the harmonic content is reduced by up to 97%. The total harmonic current distortion is typically 3%. With a passive filter the typical total harmonic distortion is between 5 to 10%.

Simple and cost-efficient installation

The compact drive features built-in harmonics mitigation. This includes an active supply unit and a low harmonic line filter. As there is no need for external filters, multi-pulse arrangements or special transformers, the simple installation offers significant space, time and cost savings. As there is less risk of overheating with lower harmonic currents, there is no need to over-dimension equipment such as transformers and cables.

Output voltage stabilisation – secured operation and optimised dimensioning

The drive’s active supply unit can boost the output voltage to enable full motor voltage, even when the supply voltage is below nominal. This ensures reliable operation in weak networks. This voltage boost capability can also be utilised to overcome voltage drops caused by long supply or motor cables. Therefore, there is no need to over-dimension the motor or supply transformer due to long cables.

The possibility to stabilise the output voltage of an ultra-low harmonic drive is an advantage compared to passive filter solutions. At nominal loads with a passive filter, there is typically a 5% voltage drop. On partial loads, on the other hand, the voltage over the passive filter can rise by up to 10%, creating the possibility of an overvoltage fault occurring.

Efficient energy utilisation

Ultra-low harmonic drives achieve a unity power factor, indicating that electrical energy is being used efficiently. The drive offers the possibility for network power factor correction to compensate for the low power factors of equipment connected to the same network. It can help to avoid penalty charges set by electrical utilities for poor power factors. Lower harmonics and full motor voltage at all times mean reduced system losses and better overall system efficiency.

For all industries and applications

Our ACS880 ultra-low harmonic drives are customised to meet the precise needs of most industries, such as the oil and gas, chemical, pulp and paper, food and beverage, rubber and plastics, marine, metals and mining industries.

Industry specific ultra-low harmonic drives ACH580 and ACQ580  are available for the HVAC and water and wastewater industries.

The problem with harmonics

Harmonics may cause premature failure or reduced lifespan of other electrical equipment causes by the overheating of network components like transformers and cables. Harmonics in the network are also responsible for disturbing other electrical equipment in the network that require a pure sinusoidal AC-waveform. Harmonics may also cause unstable operation in back-up generators.

For more information on our variable speed drives offering, visit: https://www.ipd.com.au/variable-speed-drives and our product brochure.