scope:

Foreword: Harmonics (or distortion in wave form) has always existed in electrical power systems. It is harmless as long as its level is not substantial. However, with the recent rapid advancement of power electronics technology, so-called nonlinear loads, such as variable frequency drives for motor power/speed control, are increasingly finding their way to shipboard or offshore applications. Harmonics induced by these nonlinear loads are a potential risk if they are not predicted and controlled.

The ABS Guidance Notes for Control of Harmonics in Electrical Power Systems has been developed in order to raise awareness among electrical system designers of the potential risks associated with the harmonics in electrical power systems onboard ships or offshore installations. These Guidance Notes encompass topics from the fundamental physics of harmonics to available means of mitigation to practical testing methods. These Guidance Notes are intended to aid designers to plan an appropriate means of harmonics mitigation early in the design stage of the electrical power distribution systems to make the system robust and predictable.