Analysis of Capacitor and Reactor Damage Rates on LCL Filters

DC motor drives equipped with six-pulse diode or thyristor rectifiers exhibit a substantial harmonic current distortion within a predefined threshold. To mitigate this issue, an LCL-type harmonic filter module is employed to filter the harmonics of the input current. In order to reduce the current harmonics absorbed by the power converter, an LCL filter is employed. The LCL filter comprises reactors and capacitors connected in parallel and series, with the objective of reducing the total harmonic distortion (THD-I) to a level of approximately 8%. This filter has been designed in accordance with the requirements set out in the IEC 61000-3.4 and IEEE 519 standards. The installation of an LCL filter in the Indonesia Low Speed Tunnel (ILST) system serves the purpose of reducing the harmonic current flowing through the DC converter drive section, thereby maintaining the quality of the electric power. The aforementioned filter is utilised in the low-speed wind tunnel fan drive system. This article addresses the operational characteristics of the system, the potential causes of damage to LCL filter components, and an analysis of the factors that contribute to the deterioration of these components. These factors include load characteristics, current harmonics, voltage harmonics, temperature, humidity, and environmental factors. Furthermore, the article proposes a method for early detection of damage to reactors and capacitors, which could prevent sudden or unexpected deterioration. This method represents a novel approach in this field of study.