Power quality testing involves evaluating an electrical system’s characteristics while also analyzing the system’s power supply in order to ensure the system meets certain standards and requirements as a whole. The quality of electrical power can significantly impact the proper functioning of electronic equipment, in addition to the reliability and efficiency of the electrical system.
We evaluate many aspects of a building’s electrical system during power quality testing, including the following:
- Voltage quality — We will assess the stability and consistency of the voltage supplied to electrical equipment and devices. Swells, spikes, and sags in voltage can disrupt sensitive equipment and lead to damage or malfunctions.
- Frequency stability — The frequency of the supplied power must remain within a certain tolerance range. Otherwise, electrical equipment will have a difficult time functioning as needed.
- Harmonics — Harmonics are unwanted current waveforms. When excessive harmonics occur, equipment can overheat and malfunction. This particularly applies to equipment that relies on transformers or motors.
- Transients and surges — During power quality testing, we look for sudden and short-term voltage disturbances or spikes. In many cases, these are caused by switching events, and they can damage sensitive electrical equipment.
Our ultimate goal during power quality testing is to identify issues with the power supply and recommend corrective measures to improve power quality. Some of these measures may involve installing power factor correction equipment, voltage stabilizers, surge protection devices, and other pieces of equipment. To learn more, please contact us today!