Modeling, prediction and mitigation of power distribution system voltage distortion caused by nonlinear loads

This project describes a modeling methodology that uses SPICE simulation software to predict the voltage distortion caused by nonlinear residential loads. Results of applying the methodology to a specific distribution system containing either of two different types of harmonic-rich loads, i.e., variable speed air conditioners or electric vehicle battery chargers, are presented.; The project also describes a voltage-type active power line conditioner (APLC) with a neural network controller that uses a fixed-frequency with variable-slope control method to obtain training data. The APLC is a type of active filter, which is a very efficient apparatus for reducing the harmonic effects of nonlinear loads. Simulations of the proposed APLC have been performed and compared to APLC that use other means of control. The results show that the proposed APLC results in lower current total harmonic distortion (THD), better power factor improvement, and less switching power loss than an APLC with any of the other control methods considered. A low power prototype model of the proposed APLC has been built and tested. Measurements made on the prototype clearly support the simulation results and suggest that the proposed system is a simple and effective approach to line current harmonic compensation.