ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the most relevant aspects of the study of waveform distortion caused by harmonic currents propagating from their source of origin to the point of common coupling and spreading further to adjacent locations and even to the remote alternating current supply. The growing need to conduct harmonic analyses in electrical power systems makes it convenient to review the fundamental principles that govern the flow of harmonic currents. The chapter looks at relevant aspects like the importance of linear loads as harmonic distortion attenuation elements. A load flow study is usually carried out in power system analysis to determine voltage, current, and power quantities under steady-state operation. The effects of harmonic sources on the power system will always be more appropriately assessed in the frequency domain, through a comprehensive Fourier analysis of the system. Natural resonant conditions are important factors that affect the harmonic levels and total harmonic distortion of the system.
