Business

The Hidden Energy Saving Opportunity Businesses Need To Know About

Issue 106

"Harmonics cause additional currents in electrical systems, which result in higher energy losses in the form of heat. This can significantly increase electricity bills. By mitigating harmonics, manufacturers can reduce energy waste, leading to more efficient use of power and lower overall energy costs." Kevin Brown, Quantum Controls.

Harnessing Energy Savings Through a Harmonics Survey: A Guide for Businesses

In today’s competitive market, businesses are constantly looking for ways to reduce energy consumption and improve operational efficiency. One often overlooked opportunity lies in the management of electrical harmonics. A Harmonics Survey can not only ensure compliance with regulatory standards but also reveal significant energysaving opportunities. This article will break down how conducting a Harmonics Survey can benefit your business, even if you’re not an electrical engineer.

What Are Harmonics?

Think of electricity as a clean, smooth sound, like a pure musical note. Harmonics, in electrical terms, are like background noise that distorts this sound. These distortions occur when electrical devices, particularly those with non-linear loads like Variable Speed Drives (VSDs), introduce irregularities in the electrical signal. This ‘noise’ can lead to inefficiencies and damage to your electrical systems, much like how unwanted noise can make it hard to hear a conversation.

Why Should You Care About Harmonics?

When harmonics are present in your electrical system, they can cause a range of issues. Over time, these distortions can lead to overheating of equipment, unnecessary tripping of circuit breakers, and even damage to sensitive electronics. This not only risks equipment failure but also increases your energy costs due to inefficiencies.

Imagine running your business with a machine that’s constantly struggling to function correctly due to poor power quality. It consumes more energy, requires frequent maintenance, and has a shorter lifespan. Now, multiply this by every piece of equipment in your facility. The impact on your bottom line can be significant.

Real-World Example: The Quantum Controls Case Study

Consider a recent case where Quantum Controls helped a manufacturing facility suffering from frequent equipment failures. By conducting a Harmonics Survey, a diagnostic tool to help identify and quantify the presence of harmonics in their systems, their electrical performance was monitored over a set period. The culprit was excessive harmonics caused by the VSDs on-site. Quantum Controls having identified the issue recommended the installation of an Active Harmonic Filter. The result? The facility saw an immediate reduction in equipment failures, a significant decrease in energy costs, and improved overall operational efficiency.

Taking the Next Step

Quantum Controls offers a comprehensive Harmonics Survey service, providing you with a clear picture of your power quality and actionable steps to enhance it. By addressing harmonics, your business can achieve better performance, lower costs, and greater peace of mind.

Don’t wait for problems to arise – proactively manage your power quality and start saving energy today.

www.quantum-controls.co.uk

01661 835 566

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