The third harmonic frequency

- a guide to the problems and

how to solve them

The Third Harmonic Guidebook

THF 80 GB 99-09

ABB Control
Contents
1. Third harmonic frequencies - a growing
problem............................................................................ 2
2. Generation of the third harmonic......................... 6
3. Third harmonics generate large neutral currents 8
3.1 Conductor requirements................................................ 12
3.2 Problems caused by the third harmonic......................... 16

4. Third Harmonic Filters (THFs)................................ 18

4.1 Eliminating third harmonic problems........................... 20
4.2 Decreasing the risk of fire............................................. 22
4.3 Energy savings............................................................... 22
4.4 Decreasing the magnetic fields....................................... 24

5. Voltage distortion........................................................ 26

6. Installation of the filter in different networks 27

6.1 Network structures and methods of grounding.............. 27
6.2 Generation of interference in the network...................... 30
6.3 Fault current monitoring in the TN-S system................ 31

7. Determination of the harmonic............................. 32

7.1 A typical measurement result.......................................... 33

8. Choosing and installing Third Harmonic Filters 34

8.1 Filters for different currents........................................... 35
8.2 Filters in a distribution board........................................ 36
8.3 Dimensioning filters for a transformer circuit................ 36
References........................................................................... 37
Bibliography........................................................................ 37

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 1. Third harmonic
frequencies
-a growing problem
All electrical equipment using alternating current is designed to
use a voltage with a clean and regular sine wave. However, in
present day networks, this type of curve is extremely rare. Harmonic
frequencies create distortions in the sine wave, causing interference
to equipment connected to the network.

The harmonics are generated by non-linear loads which are connected

to the network. These loads create ripple voltages that generate
harmonics at the same frequency. The size of the harmonic current
depends on the load and the impedance of the feeding network at
the frequency in question. For instance lighting, semiconductor and
PC loads generate harmonic voltages and currents of different sizes.

Networks containing small transformers, UPS equipment and

emergency power supplies, among other things, are vulnerable to
harmonics, and there is a big risk of harmonic currents causing
interference to equipment connected to these networks.

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 A non-linear load
Current

~ Voltage

Non-linear loads generate harmonics in networks

50 Hz 150 Hz 250 Hz 350 Hz

~
The most common harmonics which stress networks are the 150 Hz third
harmonic, 250 Hz fifth harmonic and the 350 Hz seventh harmonic

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 The most common harmonics which stress networks are the 150
Hz third harmonic, 250 Hz fifth harmonic and the 350 Hz seventh
harmonic. Generally, single-phase loads generate the third harmonic
and three-phase loads generate the other harmonics. The fifth and
the seventh harmonics can be filtered out by so called “tuned
circuits”.

Until recently, there was no economic way to filter the third

harmonic. Now ABB Control has developed a Third Harmonic
Filter (THF) which eliminates up to 95% of third harmonics in
a network.

In this guidebook, we describe the effects of the third harmonic

in networks, the generation and detection of third harmonics and
the elimination of third harmonics by means of the THF.

THF
THF
rg
Strömbeberg
Ström

g
Strömber

OK
Reset

s
ByPas
Test

Test

O
OFF

The Third Harmonic

Filter - THF

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 The classification of harmonics

Harmonic 3. 5. 7. 9. 11. 13. etc.

Frequency/50 Hz 150 250 350 450 550 650 etc.
Sequence 0 - + 0 - + etc.

The effects of harmonics

Sequence Direction of rotation Effects

+ forward Heating
- backwards Heating and problems for
motors
0 insignificant Heating of neutral conductor
accumulation in neutral conductor

12 or 24kV~ 690V~ or 400V~

Frequency
Load converter

N
PE

The fifth and seventh

harmonics can be filtered Tuned circuits
out by “tuned circuits”.
Suck circuits, however, do
not eliminate the third
harmonic. 5. 7.

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 2. Generation of the
third harmonic
The increasing use of non-linear equipment, such as discharge
lamps and computers, causes problems for networks and other
equipment because of their generation of third harmonics. A non-
linear load generates a 150 Hz harmonic current in the network.
The third harmonic can generate a current in the neutral conductor
which is even larger than the current in the phase conductors.

Computers generate considerable levels of third harmonic currents.

For instance, a common office-PC generates a 4 A/kW, 150 Hz
current in a network.

Equipment that generates third harmonics includes:

• Computers • Rectifiers
• Office equipment • UPS
• Discharge lamps • Induction furnaces
• Welding equipment • Home electronics
• Generators (TV, radio, microwave
ovens etc.)

All discharge lamps, such as fluorescent lamps, mercury vapour

lamps, high-pressure sodium lamps, multimetal discharge lamps,
halogen lamps, PL-lamps etc. generate harmonics. A discharge lamp
will generate a 1 A/kW, 150 Hz current in a network.

The level of harmonics caused by rectifiers is dependent on the

number of pulses used by the rectifier. 12-pulse rectifiers generate
less harmonics than 6-pulse rectifiers. Three-phase rectifiers do not
generate any third harmonic.

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 UPS
S00251A

PC-load TV + video + radio + CD + tape recorder

Harmonics and distortion of sine curves caused by different loads:

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 3. Third harmonics
generate large
neutral currents
In symmetrical loads, when all three phases are loaded equally,
there is no current in the neutral conductor. However, if there are
third harmonics in a network, currents also appear in the neutral
conductor. The third harmonic is in the same stage in every phase
of a three-phase system, causing the current generated by harmonics
to accumulate in the neutral conductor.

Within discharge lamp systems, the harmonic content in phase

conductors can rise by up to 30 % of the phase current values. Thus,
the neutral conductor is loaded with 3 x 30 %, or 0,9 times the
phase current. Examples exist of 150 Hz currents being measured
in neutral conductors in bank buildings. These were up to three
times stronger than the load currents in the phase conductors.

In installations where the dimension of the neutral conductor is

only half that of the phase conductor, it is evident that the neutral
conductor is overloaded. This can create a fire risk because the
neutral conductor is not protected by a fuse.

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 1,00
L1
L2
L3
0,00 30
60
90

150

240
270
0,00

120

180
210

300
330
-1,00
1,00
L1
0,40 3.L1
0,00
30
60
90

150

240
270
0,00

120

180
210

300
330
-0,40

-1,00
1,00
L2
0,40 3.L2
0,00
30
60
90

150

240
270
0,00

120

180
210

300
330

-0,40

-1,00
1,00
L3
0,40
3.L3
0,00
30
60
90

150

240
270
0,00

120

180
210

300
330

-0,40

-1,00
1,00
Third harmonics
accumulate in neutral
conductors.
0,00 N
30
60
90

150

240
270
0,00

120

180
210

300
330
S00248A

-1,00

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 The American CBEMA (Computer-Business Equipment Manufacturers
Association) has recommended that, due to the risk of fire caused by
third harmonics, the cross-section of neutral conductors should be at
least 1,73 times the cross-section of the phase conductor. Generally,
the cross-section of the neutral conductor is 50 % of the cross-section
of the phase conductor.

New regulations have come into force in Sweden and Finland, in

accordance with the international EMC-directive. In these regulations,
the dimensioning of the neutral conductor must take account of the
load in the neutral conductor caused by the third harmonic:

524.2 The cross-section of the neutral conductor must be the same as

the cross-section of the phase conductors:
- in single-phase circuits regardless of the cross-section and
- in polyphase circuits, when the cross-section of the phase conductors
is up to 16 mm2 copper or 25 mm2 aluminium.

524.3 In polyphase circuits, where the cross-section of the phase

conductors is larger than 16 mm2 copper or 25 mm2 aluminium, the
cross-section of the neutral conductor may be smaller than the cross-
section of the phase conductors. The following conditions must, however,
be simultaneously achieved:

- the strongest current (including harmonics) which may appear in the

neutral conductor during normal use, is not bigger than the current
capacity of the neutral conductor

Note: In normal use the load should be divided equally between the
phases.

- the neutral conductor is protected against overcurrent according to

the regulations

- the cross-section of the neutral conductor is at least 16 mm2 copper

or 25 mm2 aluminium

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 Because it is not possible in the planning stage to anticipate the generation
of harmonics, the neutral conductors must be overdimensioned or the
size of the harmonics must be limited according to the regulations.

Using a THF filter will ensure that generation of third harmonics in

the neutral conductor is not possible, eliminating the need to
overdimension the neutral conductor.

TNS
L1

L2

L3

PE
S00250A

The third harmonic accumulates in

the neutral conductor, overloading it
and causing a risk of fire.

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 3.1 Conductor requirements

The requirements concern cables and insulated conductors that are

restricted to 1000 V in alternating voltage circuits and a maximum
of 1500 V in direct voltage circuits. The requirements also concern
ground cables.

Recommended cables:
Cross- A-class B-class
section

3-phase cables

57Cu

72Cu

1-phase cables

Source: TTT/ABB Oy

The number of loaded conductors in the circuit

In a circuit, the conductors with load current are taken into account. If the load in a
polyphase circuit is presumed to be symmetrical, it is not necessary to take the neutral
conductor into account. However, there is an exception: if a current appears in the neutral
conductor and the load in the phase conductors is not decreased by the same amount, the
neutral conductor has to be taken into account when determining the current capacity
of the circuit.
Note: In three-phase circuits, this kind of current can be generated by significant
harmonics.
Conductors which function only as equipment earth conductors do not need to be taken
into account. PEN-conductors have to be taken into account as neutral conductors.
(Source: Sähkötarkastuskeskus, publication A2/94)

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Table 52 A. The highest operating temperatures for insulation materials

Insulation Highest permissible

temperature °C

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) 70 (conductor)

Polyethylene (PEX), ethylene proben rubber (ERP) 90 (conductor)
Mineral (PVC covered or open to touch) 70 (sheath)
Mineral (open, untouchable,
not in contact with flammable materials) 105 (sheath)

Note:
1) The temperatures in the table are in accordance with the
standards IEC 502 and IEC 702.

2) Higher ambient temperatures for mineral insulated cables

are possible depending on how well the cables resist
temperature. Also, the connections and environmental
conditions and other extrinsic factors have effects on highest
permissible temperatures.

Table 52-X3

Correcting factors for groups of more than one circuit or for more than one polyconductor
cable.

(To be used with the current capacity values in tables 52-X1 and 52-X2. Not for installation
type D)

Point Installation type The number of circuits or polyconductor cables

1 2 3 4 6 9 12 15 20

1 built-in or closed 1,00 0,80 0,70 0,70 0,55 0,50 0,45 0,40 0,40

2 One layer on wall, 1,00 0,85 0,80 0,75 0,70 0,70 - - -

floor or on non-
perforated cable tray

3 One layer on ceiling 0,95 0,90 0,70 0,70 0,65 0,60 - - -

4 One layer on 1,00 0,90 0,80 0,75 0,75 0,70 - - -

perforated horizontal
or vertical tray

5 One tier on cable 1,00 0,85 0,80 0,80 0,80 0,80 - - -

rack, brackets etc.

Source: Sähkötarkastuskeskus, publication A2/94

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 Table 52-X1. PVC-insulation

The current capacity of PVC-insulated cables with different installation methods

3 3 conductors 3 conductors
3 conductors conductors flat cable, flat cable,
conductors conductors conductors conductors conductors conductors conductors conductors conductors conductors conductors in a triangle flat cable horizontal vertical

Copper

Aluminium

Table 52-X2. PEX/EPR-insulation

The current capacity of PEX/EPR-insulated cables with different installation

3 3 conductors 3 conductors
3 conductors conductors flat cable, flat cable,
conductors conductors conductors conductors conductors conductors conductors conductors conductors conductors conductors in a triangle flat cable horizontal vertical

Copper

Aluminium

Source: Sähkötarkastuskeskus, publication A2/94

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Notes for installation methods
Installation methods A and A2
1. Insulated conductors or polyconductor cables in a cable conduit situated inside an insulated wall:
The structure of the wall is as follows: Waterproof exterior surface, thermal blanket and wooden or equivalent
interior surface with thermal conductivity of 10 W/m2 K. Cable conduit is fixed near the interior surface, but
not necessarily touching it. It is presumed that the heat transmission from the cables takes place only via the
wall’s interior surface. The cable conduit can be made of metal or plastic.

Installation methods B and B2

2. Insulated conductors or polyconductor cables in a cable conduit situated on wooden wall:
The cable conduit is fixed on a wooden wall, so that the distance between the wall surface and the cable is less
than 0,3 times the diameter of the conduit. The cable conduit can be made of metal or plastic.

Installation method C
3. A cable on a wall surface:
The cable is fixed on a wooden wall, so that the distance between the wall surface and the cable is less than 0,3
times the diameter of the cable. If a cable is fixed on or inside a wall made of a brick like material, the current
capacity of the cable can be higher.
4. A cable on a floor or ceiling:
As for number 3. The current capacity of a cable which is fixed on a ceiling is somewhat less than that of a cable
on a floor or on a wall (see table 52-E1).

Installation method D
5. A cable installed in the ground:
The cable is in immediate contact with the surrounding soil. The current capacity values in the tables are based
on the thermal resistance of the ground (1.0 K m/W) and the depth of the installation (0,7 m.)
6. Cables in duct-works:
A cable which is installed in a duct, which is placed directly into soil and not made of metal. The current capacity
values in the tables are based on the thermal resistance of the ground at a depth of 0,7 m. These values can also
be used for polyconductor cables if they are installed in a metal pipe.

Installation methods E, F and G

7. A cable suspended in the air:
A cable is hung so that the total coefficient of thermal conductivity is easy to determine. The warming-up effect
of the sun and other sources must be taken into account. Care must be taken to ensure that the natural circulation
of air is not restricted. In practice, it is possible to use the current capacity values of cable which is installed freely
in the air if the distance between the cable and a nearby surface is at least 0,3 times the diameter of the cable.

Installation methods H, J, K, M, N and P

8. On a perforated cable tray, there are holes at regular distance for fixing the cable: If the area of the holes is
less than 30% of the area of the tray, it is considered that the tray is not perforated.

Installation methods L and Q

9. Cable rack:
This construction impedes the air circulation around cables as little as possible. The area of supporting metal
parts is less than 10 % of the total.
10. Clamps, brackets:
Clamps which fix the cable at regular distances and allow almost completely free circulation of air around the
cable. (Source: Sähkötarkastuskeskus, publication A2/94)

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 3.2 Problems caused by the third harmonic

The strong neutral currents generated by the third harmonic

cause, among other things, the following problems:

In a network:
- Overheating of the neutral conductor leading to the risk of fire
- Increased power losses
- Strong electromagnetic fields
- Causes the network to produce interference

Harmonics cause interference in electrical plant:

In transformers:
- Increased power losses
- The risk of resonance
- Overload of delta windings due to rotating third harmonic current
- Decreased operating life
- Noise
- Temperature rises

In capacitors:
Capacitors are especially sensitive to harmonics. Batteries must be
overdimensioned in order to withstand them.
- Increased power losses
- The risk of resonance
- Decreased operating life

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In cables and conductors:
- Increased power losses
- Overload on neutral conductor (N- and PEN-conductors)
The third harmonic accumulates in the neutral conductor,
making the 150 Hz harmonic three times stronger than in the
phase conductors.
- The risk of fire. The neutral conductor can burn out.

In computers:
- The risk of malfunction. Harmonics may cause mysterious
interference effects.

Other interference:
- Malfunctions of electrical equipment
- Malfunctions of electronic relays
- Malfunctions of earth fault alarms
- Unrequested operation of appliances
- Malfunctions of control devices
- Strong electromagnetic fields
- Potential differences in 4-conductor systems. This could be caused
by the 150 Hz fault current caused by the third harmonic in
PEN-conductors. Potential differences may cause malfunctions
in computers.

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 4. Third Harmonic
Filters (THFs)
Third Harmonic Filters eliminate the problems caused by the
third harmonic. They also considerably decrease the
electromagnetic fields and power consumption. The decrease in
the power consumption can give savings between 4 and 9 % in
energy consumption. There will also be other savings, due to the
decrease of maintenance costs for equipment.

The THF manufactured by ABB Control Oy eliminates about 95

% of the 150 Hz current in a neutral conductor if the dimensioning
is correct. It does this by forming a high resistance at 150 Hz. This
is obtained by trimming an inductance and a capacitance, coupled
in parallel, to resonate at the third harmonic frequency. The THF
also eliminates the 150 Hz current in the phase conductors and
decreases the energy consumption and voltage resonance. It therefore
increases, among other things, the operating life of capacitors and
considerably decreases maintenance costs. A patent has been applied
for this method.

• The THF eliminates about 95 % of the third harmonic

current (150 Hz) in the neutral conductor

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 C
L R

C
L R

C
L R

L R

L R

THF
THF
g
Strömber

g
Strömber

OK
Reset

s
ByPas
Test

Test

O
OFF

The Third Harmonic

Filter (THF)
For TN-C networks For TN-S networks

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 4.1 Eliminating third harmonic problems

The elimination of the third harmonic from the neutral conductor

also eliminates problems in the network and operating problems
in equipment.

• The THF eliminates about 95 % of the third harmonic current

(150 Hz) in the neutral conductor
• The risk of fire decreases when this load, which strains the neutral
conductor, disappears. Overdimensioning of the neutral conductor
can therefore be avoided.
• The operating temperature of transformers decreases, increasing
their lifetime.
• A THF also eliminates 150 Hz current from the phase conductors,
decreasing the power consumption by 4-10 %. This gives
considerable savings in energy consumption.
• Decreases magnetic fields by 80 %.
• The quality of the network improves when the interference caused
by the third harmonic disappears.

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Installation in a green house. 100 x 400 W high- Installation in a green house. 100 x 400 W high-
pressure sodium lamps, 3-phase network without pressure sodium lamps, 3-phase network THF 63
filter, N-conductor current. filter installed, N-conductor current.

Huddinge hospital. Without filter, N-conductor Huddinge hospital. THF 125 filter installed,
current. N-conductor current.

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 4.2 Decreasing the risk of fire

The current in a neutral conductor can in some cases exceed the

value of the phase current. For example, a 70 mm2 phase conductor
has been dimensioned so that the temperature does not exceed the
temperature rating of the insulation. Since the cross-section of the
neutral conductor is generally only about a half the cross-section of
the phase conductor, the harmonic current, which accumulates in
the neutral conductor, may cause over heating, earth fault and short
circuit. In the worst case, the conductor may break off, because the
short circuit protection does not protect the neutral conductor against
overload.
Since a THF eliminates the third harmonic from the neutral
conductor, it also eliminates these problems, as well as the risk of
fire.

4.3 Energy savings

The THF also saves energy. When the third harmonic is almost totally
eliminated from the neutral conductor, the 150 Hz current component
is also eliminated from the phase conductors. In practice, this gives
energy savings or the possibility of increasing lighting capacity without
increasing energy consumption.

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The following test results were achieved at a Scania factory in Sweden:
The neutral current decreased by 95 % and power consumption by
6 %. The load on transformers decreased and the magnetic field in
the premises also decreased considerably. Scania calculated that it will
save about 1 million Swedish crowns per year by installing THFs in
all its business premises.
Shown below is an example of a measurement at the test plant:

Phase current Effective power A test result at

the test plant.
IR (A RMS) P (kW)
68 Lighting group
125 A fuse
66 13,4
64 13,2
62 13
60 12,8
58 12,6
56 12,4
54 12,2
Without With Without With
filter filter filter filter

Neutral current Apparent power

IN (A RMS) S (kVA)
70
60 15
50 14,5
40 14
30 13,5
20 13
10 12,6
0 12
Without With Without With
filter filter filter filter

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 4.4 Decreasing the magnetic fields

Recently, there has been debate about the possible health risks of
magnetic fields generated by electrical equipment. The EU is to
publish the limit values for magnetic fields in public and working
places. Reducing magnetic fields by altering or replacing existing
equipment is in many cases impossible.
However, the problem can be solved by THFs. In a Swedish office,
where a THF was installed in a distribution centre, measurements
showed that the magnetic field had decreased by 70 %. In Huddinge
hospital in Sweden, magnetic fields have decreased considerably
after the installation of a THF. A consequence of the decrease of
magnetic fields was the improvement of the reliability of alarm
devices.

In Sweden, 0,2 microTesla has been set as the upper limit for
continuous exposure to low frequency magnetic fields in public
places.

Measurement of magnetic fields, STRI

The metering was 1,8
carried out in a 20 m2 1,6
room, with the sensor Magnetic field mT 5-2kHz
at a height 0,5 m. 1,4
Magnetic field µT 50Hz
STRI=
1,2
Swedish 1
Transmission
Research Institute 0,8
0,6
0,4
0,2
0
Reference Without With
level filter filter
without load
24
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The measuring of magnetic fields in Huddinge hospital,
left: columns without filter, right: with filter.
Measurements were taken at different points in the room.

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 5. Voltage distortion
All non-linear loads need a 150Hz voltage generated by the current
of the third harmonic.

A THF generates this 150 Hz voltage, and so the non-linear load

does not need to take 150 Hz current from the network. The THF
generates a counter voltage against the 150 Hz voltage generated by
the load and therefore decreases the voltage distortion.

The voltage itself does not generally cause problems, but the current
caused by the voltage does. A particular problem is, for instance,
rising temperature. The THF generates a counter voltage and as a
consequence the current vanishes. This is why the main objective
of the THF is to eliminate the current, not the voltage.

D
D
S1

P
S
Q Q
P
P = Active Power S = Apparent Power
Q = Reactive Power S1 = Apparent Power with a
D = Distortion load generating harmonics

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6. Installation of the
filter in different
networks
6.1 The most common network structures and
methods of grounding

According to the IEC publication 364-3 (1977) part 3, distribution

systems are marked with a letter code, which has the following
meanings:

First letter: Grounding type of the distribution system

T = one point is connected directly to earth (T=terrain)
Second letter: The grounding of the parts of equipment which can
be touched and may become live
N= The touchable parts which may be exposed to voltage are
connected to the grounded point of the distribution system (in an
a.c. network, generally to the grounded star-point) (N = neutral)
Possible additional letters: The respective arrangement of neutral
and equipment earth conductors
S = separate neutral and equipment earth conductors (S=separated)
C= neutral and equipment earth conductors are combined into one
(PEN) conductor (C=common).

In this system, one point is connected directly to earth, and the

touchable parts which may be exposed to voltage are connected to
this point by equipment earth or PEN conductor.

On next page are shown the most common network types in which
THFs can be installed.

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 TN-S system

Separate neutral and equipment earth conductors for the whole

system. (equipment earth system, 5-conductor system)
The THF is installed in the neutral conductor. The network must
be a pure TN-S system. Fault current monitoring is recommended
(see 6.3).

L1
L2
L3
THF N
PE

TN-C system (four-conductor system)

These systems utilise a PEN conductor, which acts as both equipment

earth (PE) and neutral (N) conductors. The low-voltage distribution
systems of electrical utilities generally operate on a TN-C system.
The THF is installed at the star point of a transformer.

L1
L2
L3
THF
PEN

Because of terrestrial
currents, THF filters L1
cannot be installed in the L2
PEN conductor of a four- L3
conductor system.
THF PEN

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TN-C-S system

The TN-C-S system is used in ordinary buildings in Finland. The

use of TN-S systems has been obligatory only in medical premises,
premises where there is a danger of explosion and in cattle houses
according to the electrical safety regulations (A1-80). The use of
TN-S systems has been extended in regulations (A1-89 and T 86-
91) so that they now have to be used in the low voltage distribution
systems of junctions (TN systems). Thanks to the system’s
interference protection and simplicity, it has been recommended
that TN-S systems be used for all electrical installation of junctions.

L1
L2
L3
THF N
PEN
PE
TN-C TN-S

The neutral and equipment earth functions are combined in a part

of a TN-C-S system. The THF would be installed at the star point
or in the neutral conductor of the TN-S. In a TN-S system, the
network must be a pure TN-S system. Fault current monitoring is
recommended (see 6.3).

NOTE: The network cannot be grounded after the filter. A

consequence of this could be a terrestrial current that passes the
filter and goes between the star point of the transformer and the
consumer point, for example along iron fittings.

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 6.2 Generation of interference in the network

When an electronic system consists of various devices, there are

often interferences within the earthing of the network. Experience
has shown that most of this interference appears in TN-C-S (TN-
C) systems (four-conductor systems), where a PEN conductor is
used entirely or partly for equipment earth.

There are two ways for interference to build up in TN-S-S or TN-

C systems:
The voltage drop caused by the load current in the PEN-conductor
connects itself directly between the frame parts of devices with
equipment earth. These devices are connected to different points
of the network; in this way, interference gets further into the signal
conductors, which are linking the devices.
In addition to the earthing at the star point of a transformer, a PEN-
conductor is connected to earth at various points of the network
because of, for example, potential equalising. In addition, a PEN-
conductor will be unintentionally earthed through the frame parts
of devices that are in connection with it. In this way, a part of the
load current in the PEN-conductor can go through pipelines, frame
structures etc., forming circuits which induce interference in signal
circuits. The induction effect is particularly strong on circuits which
are formed by signal conductors and earth.

In the interference mentioned above, there is often, in addition

to a 50 Hz component, a strong 150 Hz component. This is due
to odd harmonics, which are divisible by three, occurring in the
same phase in all parts of the system and therefore the current
caused by them accumulates in the neutral conductor.

The use of TN-S systems from the point of repulsing the

interference

In an ideal case in a TN-S system, the neutral current can not

propagate through metal structures, pipelines etc. However, the
third harmonic also stresses the neutral conductor.

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6.3 Fault current monitoring in the TN-S system

It is advisable to use fault current monitoring in TN-S systems. Fault

current monitoring is an alarm system, which monitors the neutral
and equipment earth conductors and the insulation status between
the phase conductors and earth.
A THF filter can be equipped with a fault current monitoring system,
an economic way of improving the protection level of the network.
The earth leakage control of THF does not substitude the earth
leakage protection required in special applications.

L1
THF L2
L3
PE
Strömbe
rg
L1
F1
I>
t
Aut.

OK
Test

Reset 1 3

ByPass R 2 4
Test
13 21 1 3 5
Test

O
14 22 2 4 6 A %
OFF

150Hz Load Load Load

N THF
OK
ByPass
Test

L1
L2
L3

THF N
PE

The earthing in this diagram is incorrect; the connection is shown in

red. If the THF filter is coupled to the N-conductor, the 150 Hz current
can go through the PE-circuit (the grey dotted line).

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 7. Determination of the
harmonic
Before measuring harmonics, we must be sure which network
system is in question. Measurements must take place at a point of
the network where possible harmonic terrestrial currents cannot
pass the meter. The measuring ranges for different network systems
are shown in the following drawings.
If there are several earthing points in the network, the network has
to be “cleaned” in order to obtain reliable results. In TN-S systems,
the sum of the 150 Hz current measured in phase conductors must
be equal to the 150 Hz measured in the neutral conductor:
ILI (150 Hz) + IL2(150 Hz) + IL2(150 Hz) = IN (150 Hz). If this condition does not arise,
it means that the N- and PE-conductors are in touch with each
other and the network has to be cleaned before the installation of
a THF. See the terrestrial current drawing on the previous page.
Measurements are best made with a multichannel instrument
suitable for this purpose, with a fork ampere meter (True-RMS-
meter) or with an oscilloscope. The measurements must only be
done by a suitably qualified person and must be made in accordance
with the local electrical safety regulations. The possible effect of
the measurement on the network must also be taken into account.

TN-C system TN-S system

L1 L1
L2 L2
L3 L3
N
PEN
PE

Measuring point at the The recommended

star point of the transformer. measuring range

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 7.1 A typical measurement result before and
after the installation of the filter

Huddinge hospital. Without filter, Huddinge hospital. THF 125 filter, N-conductor
N-conductor current. current.

TN-C-S system

L1
L2
L3
N
PEN
PE
TN-C TN-S

Measuring point at the The recommended

star point of the transformer. measuring range

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 8. Choosing and
installing THFs
The basis of the factory dimensioning of the filter is the fact that a
filter installed in the neutral conductor bears, in addition to the 150
Hz current, a 50 Hz component the size of the phase current
(unsymmetrical load).
In the dimensioning of large (over 630 kVA) filters, the simultaneity
factors of the network have been taken into consideration.
A filter is sized according to the distribution board or to the fuse,
which is supplying the group. In a 5-conductor system, the filter will
be in the neutral conductor. In this case, there is a slight voltage in
the neutral conductor, but it has no harmful effects. In this case, you
must ensure that the network is a pure TN-S system. We recommend
fault current monitoring in this case (see 6.3).
TN-S system TN-C system

L1 L1
L2 L2
L3 L3
THF N THF
PEN
PE

In 4-conductor systems and in mixed networks the filter will be

installed at the star point of the transformer. In the TN-S system,
part of a mixed network, the filter can also be installed in the neutral
conductor. In this case, there is a slight voltage in the neutral conductor,
but it has no harmful effects. In this case, you must ensure that the
network is a pure TN-S system. We recommend fault current
monitoring in this case (see 6.3).
TN-C-S
L1
system
L2
L3
THF N
PEN
PE
TN-C TN-S

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 Currently, three basic sizes of THF filter are manufactured. They are
dimensioned for 63A, 125A and 160A currents. Filtering for larger
currents is obtained by parallel connection of filters.

The 50 Hz impedance of the filter Z(50)=X(50)=9/8*ω*L (ω=100π 1/s)

When a full phase current goes through the filter, a voltage drop is
generated in the filter dU=In*sin α*X(50)
When cos α = 0,8, sin α = 0,6 (the angle of phase
difference, α = 37 degrees)
The start point for dimensioning the filter is that dU is less than
5 % of the phase voltage (Diagram).

For example: Un=400 V ja sin α=0,6

L<54 mH/(In/A)
THF 63 (In=63 A); L=0,85 mH

8.1 Filters for different currents

As a rule, the THF is chosen according to the nominal current of the
feeding circuit. The basis for dimensioning the THF is the fact that
it should withstand, in addition to the 150 Hz voltage, a 50 Hz
neutral current, which is generated by a possible phase imbalance.
Thus the filter is safe for use under any conditions.

Size of THF-filter quantity Recommended cable diameters

feeding fuse for neutral conductors Cu.
(A) (pieces)
Incoming - Connection
Outgoing cable between the filters
63 1 x THF 63N /NV 16 mm2 -
125 1 x THF 125N /NV 35 mm2 -
160 1 x THF 160N /NV 50 mm2 -
200 1 x THF 160N /NV + 1 x THF 63N 70 mm2 16 mm2
250 1 x THF 125NL /NLV + 1 x THF 125N 95 mm2 35 mm2
315 1 x THF 125NL /NLV + 1 x THF 125N 95 mm2 35 mm2
+ 1 x THF 63N + 16 mm2
400 1 x THF 125NL/NLV + 2 x THF 125N 150 mm2 35 mm2
500 4 x THF 125N + THF 1BV1 185 mm2 35 mm2
630 5 x THF 125N + THF 1BV2 2 x 95 mm2 35 mm2
800 6 x THF 125N + THF 1 BV2 2 x 150 mm2 35 mm2

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 8.2 Filters in a distribution board
In a TN-S-system, filters are chosen according to the main fuse in a
distribution board.

4- and/or 5-conductor systems 5-conductor systems

New investment
System improvements

8.3 Dimensioning filters for a transformer circuit

The basis of dimensioning: The maximal asymmetrical current per phase is
50% of the rated current.
Transformer THF filter
Pn/kVA In/A The number of mounting trays
315 460 2 x THF 125NP
4 x THF 63NB/NP
500 720 3 x THF 125NP
6 x THF 63NB/NP
630 900 3 x THF 125NP + 1 x THF 63NP
7 x THF 63NB/NP
800 1150 4 x THF 125NP + 1 x THF 63NP
9 x THF 63NB/NP
1000 1450 5 x THF 125NP + 1 x THF 63NP
11 x THF 63NB/NP
1250 1800 7 x THF 125NP
14 x THF 63NB/NP
1600 2300 9 x THF 125NP
18 x THF 63NB/NP
2000 2900 11 x THF 125NP + 1 x THF 63NP
23 x THF 63NB/NP

We reserve the right to alter specifications.

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References
Sales and marketing of THFs began in Sweden at the end of 1994. Below
is a list of sites where THFs have been installed.
Scania, Södertelje, autotruck factory
Gränges, Finspång, metal industry
Bofors, Karlskoga, arms industry
VME, Eslöv, loading machines
Greenhouses: Köping, Glimåkra, Ekerö, Intervekst/Norway
Huddinge Hospital
KREAB, Klippan, factory
Nokia, Tidaholm, repair shop
Göteborg Energi, Gothenburg, WC-games
EDET, Lilla Edet, paper industry
Health care school, Umeå
Schools: Vänamo, Gislaved
Town halls: Tranemo, O-vik
Karlstad, library
Ericsson, Karlstad, real estate
HP-flugger, Gothenburg, colour works
Såtenäs flytottilj, Lidköping, airfield
ASTRA, Södertälje, medicine industry
Volvo, Gothenburg

Bibliography
● TTT, ABB Oy 1992
● Rakennusten sähköasennukset julkaisu A2-94, Sähkötarkastuskeskus
● Maadoitusopas, Sähkötarkastuskeskus

● Käsikirja rakennusten sähköasennuksista, julkaisu D1-95,

Sähkötarkastuskeskus
● Häiriösuojaus, Suomen Sähköurakoitsijaliitto r.y. 91

● 50 Hz sähkö- ja magneettikenttien tekninen vähentäminen

työympäristössä -seminaari 11/95

● Swedish Transmission Research Institute

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 If your network is haunted,
THF will clean the current !

Mainostoim. WILMA 1999

ABB Control Oy
P.O. Box 622,
FIN 65101 VAASA,
Finland
Tel. + 358 10 22 4000
Fax. + 358 10 22 45708