TECHNICAL INFORMATION

Our technical prowess is revolutionizing the power system optimization market.

FES International fixes problems and finds energy savings that provide attractive financial returns and significantly improved operations.

What Is the Problem?

All nonlinear electronic loads generate positive- and negative-sequence harmonic currents. Single-phase nonlinear electronic loads, connected phase-neutral in a three-phase, four-wire distribution system, also generate zero-sequence harmonic currents.

Three-phase motor drives and single-phase lighting loads often account for a significant portion of a 480V system’s loads. Single-phase nonlinear electronic office loads typically account for more than 95% of a 208/120V power panel’s loads. At these levels, unacceptable levels of Total Harmonic Distortion of Current are not uncommon.

In industrial settings, the problems are further compounded by the application of variable frequency drives and induction motors. Total Harmonic Distortion of Current produces ‘penalty losses’ in every element of the electrical distribution system while Total Harmonic Distortion of Voltage produces ‘penalty losses’ in its loads. These losses reduce their energy efficiencies, increase power consumption, accelerate asset failure and impact facility productivity and profitability.

Here is an in-depth breakdown of the challenges experienced:

System Performance Issues

The injection of harmonic currents into an electrical distribution system, which is based on a non-mitigating ‘conventional design’, will normally produce the following unacceptable outcomes:

• High Total Harmonic Distortion of Current [THD_I]
• High Neutral Currents
• High Harmonic Current Injection into the utility’s Point of Common Coupling (meter)
• Increased Voltage Drop in feeder circuits, bus duct risers, and branch circuits

The impact of harmonic currents on a distribution system can be quite significant. From energy unnecessarily consumed to horsepower lost within a motor, numerous issues can arise which impact system performance. When current losses are reduced, system losses are reduced as well. The net effect is financially beneficial.

To define and limit harmonic problems, IEEE published ANSI/IEEE Std 519-1992, Recommended Practices and Requirements for Harmonic Control in Electrical Power Systems.

Power Quality Issues

In an Ohms Law relationship, harmonic currents generate harmonic voltages. These voltages normally produce the following unacceptable power quality problems:

• High Total Harmonic Distortion of Voltage [THD_V] at the loads (ref. IEEE Std 519-1992)
• High Neutral-to-Ground Voltage at the loads (ref. ITIC, formerly CBEMA)
• Large Neutral-to-Ground Voltage Differentials between computers and data processing equipment, which are connected into a communications “network” (ref. EPRI)

The presence of power quality issues within the facility, while increasing energy costs, has an even greater effect on operational performance. When distorted voltage is present, significant performance degradation occurs in the loads utilized within the facility. The impact stretches from computers to large motors, HVAC, lighting, and almost all other connected devices interacting with the distribution system.

The Impact

A detailed analysis of a ‘conventional design’ will normally uncover many of the following undesirable financial outcomes:

• High power costs
• High capital cost
• High ‘penalty losses’ in transformers and motors
• Low power factor
• Loss of productivity, quality, and revenue
• Shorter asset life/earlier failure
• Presence of power system issues that are challenging to define

FES International’s Process Provides Success:

FES International follows a rigorous approach to provide fully customized solutions that guarantee power quality and efficiency. Our goal is to provide highly predictable service and a positive customer experience, with a guaranteed financial benefit for every project in which we engage.

We first determine that the facility is a good candidate for power system optimization:

Technical Data Collection

The power system optimization process begins when you provide us with your facility’s single-line diagrams and 12 months of energy bills.

Initial Engineering Review

We begin by conducting a review of the single-line diagrams and analyzing utility bills, using proprietary diagnostic tools to estimate the potential savings for the facility. This review allows us to predict a potential financial benefit. There is no cost to you for the initial engineering review.

Audit Proposal

We then prepare a proposal including the costs associated with a facility audit.  Based on our experience, we determine appropriate measurement sites throughout your electrical system.  On receipt of your purchase order, we coordinate a site visit with your designated facility contact.

Facility Audit

Our team then performs a comprehensive electrical audit to provide our engineers with the data they need to confirm the energy and cost savings an FES solution will provide.

Solution Pricing and Contract

Based on our audit, we evaluate the opportunity and present a power system optimization proposal. Our proposal includes a system performance and may include a financial outcome guarantee.

Engineering the Solution

After our proposal is accepted, we engineer a solution that improves power quality and energy efficiency throughout the facility.

Installation

We provide detailed specifications and installation instructions for implementation of the solution. We also provide supervision of the installation and commissioning services.

Measurement and Verification

Post-installation, we perform the necessary calculations to verify the savings. The net result: The power system itself is optimized, energy savings are immediately realized, the longevity of electrical devices is improved system-wide and operational expenses are reduced.