What is power quality?
Power quality is generally an all-encompassing term used to describe the consistency and desirable characteristics, or lack thereof, of electrical power from its generation, delivery and usage. In nearly all cases, power quality is synonymous with voltage quality.
What are power quality problems?
Power quality problems are best defined as problems related to electric power that interferes with the proper operation of electrical devices. There are numerous types of power quality problems, each with their own causes and effects.
What causes poor power quality?
The causes of poor power quality run the gamut from squirrels or hot summer days to the failure of equipment on the electric utility’s system. Some causes can be corrected or eliminated while many others are out of anyone’s control, at any price.
What are the symptoms of poor power quality?
The symptoms of poor power quality can be as subtle as motors that prematurely fail every few years, as obvious as equipment that shuts down, or as catastrophic as burned-out circuit boards.
How do I fix a power quality problem?
Solutions to power quality problems are dictated by
- The cause of the problem and its effect
- The extent to which the problem needs to be corrected
- The financial value of correcting the problem
There is no single solution to any power quality problem, but the first and most critical step is understanding the problem and its effects.
Isn’t the electric utility responsible for fixing my power quality problems?
Yes and no.
Yes – as long as the utility is the cause of the problem. Electric utilities are only required to provide power within a set of limits.
No – the electric utility can’t and won’t take responsibility for problems that are outside of their control or are “acts of nature” or “acts of God.”
Most electric utilities deliver power as they are required to – nothing more and nothing less. The utility is rarely at fault. The vast majority of the time, power quality issues are due to situations and conditions downstream from the electric meter (where the utility’s responsibility ends).
What types of power quality problems do UST products address?
UST produces a unique line of products to solve a broad range of AC voltage problems for commercial and industrial applications. Sizes range from 3 to 2,000 kVA and up to 600 volts. Chronically high, low or fluctuating voltages, deep voltage sags, unbalanced voltages and unbalanced currents are just some of the power quality issues UST solutions prevent.
Can you help me with my power quality problems?
Call us. We are happy to help you find a solution to your power quality problem. If we don’t carry a solution in our product line, we will point you to someone who does.