Power Quality Monitoring (PQM) has many benefits, such as improving performance and quality. A PQM System will gather, analyze, and interpret raw electricity measurement data into useful information. A typical monitoring system measures voltage and electrical current, but ground quality may also be measured if unbalanced loads or harmonics are detected.
There are a number of reasons to employ power quality monitoring. It allows plants to perform energy management, preventive maintenance, quality control, and saves money. Today, many end users have sensitive telecommunication or computer equipment that don't utilize PQM. This makes them vulnerable to power quality issues. Also, today’s customers understand the consequences of power fluctuations and expect a higher level of service. Currently, it is estimated that power outages account for up to 40 percent of all business downtime.
To monitor their power, modern power plants use digital fault recorders, smart relays, voltage recorders, in-plant power monitors, and special-purpose power quality equipment. A digital fault recorder activates on fault events and records the current waveforms and voltage that caused the problem. It can also capture periodic waveforms helpful in calculating harmonic distortion levels. Smart relays check the power current and record disturbances. A variety of voltage recorders are used to monitor variations that are on the system. A voltage recorder detects a trend and gives minimum, maximum, and average voltage every two seconds. In-plant power monitors, usually at the service entrance, capture wave shape for evaluation of harmonic distortion levels or voltage sag conditions. Special-purpose power quality monitors are able to simultaneous watch voltage and current.
In short, Power Quality Monitoring System monitors the quality of voltage and current produced by a power plant. It's employed to decrease plant and customer downtime, and optimize the quality of electricity delivered. A good system will also improve the performance, efficiency, and longevity of power generating equipment.
Need more information on a Power Quality Monitoring System, electrical testing or transformer services? Contact Power Plus Engineering Services to speak with a trusted team of electrical contractors today.