The Price of Poor Power Quality Ian C Evans, Harmonic Solutions Co. UK and Michael J Richards, Algozen Corporation, Canada

The Price of Poor Power Quality

Ian C Evans, Harmonic Solutions Co. UK and Michael J Richards, Algozen Corporation, Canada
Abstract 
Electric drives, both DC drives (often called “SCR drives” in the industry) and AC variable frequency drives (VFDs), are commonplace on drilling rigs and offshore installations. Their operation can significantly degrade the quality of electric power, resulting in loss of operational capability, equipment failure with subsequent down-time in addition to presenting safety concerns. Marine classification bodies have rules to limit harmonic voltage distortion but these are rarely policed. The quality and security of electric power are absolutely crucial to the operational integrity of any drilling rig or offshore installation, irrespective of type or class. Any failure or malfunction of equipment due to poor power quality can result in severe or disastrous consequences. This paper looks at the main problems associated with poor power quality, including excessive harmonic voltage distortion, line notching (SCR drives) and voltage spikes attributed to SCR drives; these are all traditional ‘harmonics problems’. However, the introduction of large VFDs has resulted in significant increases in ‘common mode voltage’ problems which can be extremely problematic; even to the point where rigs are being taken off-hire due to major equipment being deemed ‘dangerous’. On another rig, the gas detection system failed when the top drive VFD was running due to this problem. This paper will provide a practical understanding of each problem and how they can be resolved. The paper also introduces an inexpensive, yet powerful, remote power quality monitoring system which can be easily retrofitted to monitor all aspects of land-rig and offshore rig power quality, including waveforms and harmonic spectrums. The data is available locally with the capability to transmit the information via the internet to anywhere in the World.

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