An Optimization Algorithm to Determine Apparent Power of Active Filter

Abstract

The coal grading plants in Viet Nam extensively apply induction motors. Induction motors consume active and reactive power from the power supply systems. The reactive power flowing through the electrical network creates active power losses. The reactive power received from power utilities reduces the load power factor at the node where coal sorting plants are connected to the supply network. Frequency-controlled induction motors introduce distortions into the electrical network because they are electrical equipment with a nonlinear current-voltage characteristic. Non-sinusoidal current and voltage cause additional losses of active power in the electrical network and electrical equipment, thereby shortening its service life, reducing the reliability of operation, and causing economic damage. Active filters can solve these problems. The paper proposes an optimization algorithm for determining the apparent power of the active filter, which provides the load power factor and power quality indices corresponding to the regulatory documents. The algorithm is used to calculate the apparent power of the active filter for the coal grading plant owned by the Vietnamese company “Cua Ong-Vinacomin."