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Introduction to Supraharmonics

By Landon Rhodes · September 2, 2026

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Abstract

As electronic power converters are increasing in prevalence on the grid, especially EV chargers, photovoltaic inverters, variable frequency drives, and LED lighting systems, a new power quality issue is arising and gaining in popularity within the research community. This relatively new problem is leading to symptoms like conductor power losses, aging and degrading of insulating materials, damage to MV cable terminations, interference with appliances and energy meters, nuisance tripping, flickering lights, and severe issues with power line communications [1]. This is known as supraharmonic distortion, which is any quasi-stationary distortion on the voltage or current waveform in the frequency range of 2 kHz – 150 kHz [2]. The quasi-stationary clause in the definition is meant to exclude transient behavior, which should be treated as a different issue with different causes. The lower end of the supraharmonic frequency range is chosen to correspond with the point where traditional harmonic standards stop measurement, while the upper end is chosen to distinguish from the CISPR 16-1-1 frequency band B, which covers 150 kHz to 30 MHz and is primarily concerned with conducted emissions [3].  

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Send it to askmerlin@powermonitors.com or text (540) 383-3144.

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Have a PQ question? Ask Merlin™ — free. Send it to askmerlin@powermonitors.com or text (540) 383-3144.

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