Voltage sag is one of the most common power quality problems. The consequences for not troubleshooting a voltage sag complaint isn't the resulting damage that can be done to electrical…
Voltage
Using PMI Boomerangs with an RTAC
Introduction In addition to PMI's cloud-based Canvass system compatibility, Boomerang distribution monitors including a DNP3 port for use in SCADA. Advanced distribution programs such as volt/VAR optimization, DER management, and…
CBEMA Graphs Revealed
The CBEMA (Computer Business Equipment Manufacturers Association) curve and the ITIC (Information Technology Industry Council) curve both refer to a similar method to visibly represent voltage events. A graph of…
Real-Time Voltage Interruption Detection and Alerting
Utility situational awareness is critical with today's high customer expectations, increased regulatory scrutiny, and reliance on stable AC power. Voltage interruption/outage detection is the most basic, and usually the most…
Spotting Loose Neutrals with Waveform Capture
A "loose neutral" in a residential location can cause equipment damage and even a house fire. An open neutral may start as a high resistance connection that shows subtle signs…
Understanding IEEE 1159 Definitions
It is very important to have recommended guidelines and practices in place regarding power quality monitoring with the use of consistent terminology and definitions of power quality phenomena. This is…
Quantifying Residential Voltage Sags
Voltage sag complaints are one of the most common in residential applications. Despite complaints, many residential voltage sags are not actually troublesome, or caused by the utility. Quantifying sag events…
Using Cycle Stripcharts
Stripchart recording is an important tool for analyzing complex data. It provides a visual means to easily digest extensive quantities of recorded information over long time periods. In most cases,…
Voltage Sag Source: Upstream or Downstream?
The first step in voltage sag mitigation is finding the source of the sag. In a power quality recording, spotting the voltage sag itself is often easy, but determining whether…
Electrical Undervoltage and Power Quality
In this whitepaper, the term undervoltage is explained, some typical causes of undervoltages are given, and the effects of undervoltage on customer loads is described. IEEE 1159-2009, IEEE Recommended Practice…
Adjusting Waveform Capture Sampling Rates
Waveform capture is one of the most important data types available for PQ analysis. The sample-level data provides detailed information for voltage disturbances such as oscillatory transients, notches, sub-cycle overvoltages…
Four-Wire Delta Voltage Unbalance
Voltage unbalance in a four-wire or "high leg" delta can be tricky to measure. A 4-wire delta often involves unbalanced impedances, and phase shifts in the hot leg are common.…