STATCOM (Static Synchronous Compensator) can help control harmonics, but its primary function is not harmonic filtering. Here's how it relates to harmonics:
1. Primary Role of STATCOM:
Reactive Power Compensation: STATCOM provides fast and dynamic reactive power support to regulate voltage and improve power system stability.
Voltage Stability: It helps maintain grid voltage by injecting or absorbing reactive power as needed.
2. Harmonic Impact of STATCOM:
Self-Generated Harmonics: STATCOMs use voltage-source converters (VSCs) with high-frequency switching (e.g., PWM), which can introduce high-frequency harmonics into the system.
Mitigation Through Design: Modern STATCOMs employ:
Multilevel Converters (e.g., cascaded H-bridge, MMC) to reduce harmonic distortion.
PWM Techniques (Sinusoidal PWM, Selective Harmonic Elimination) to minimize harmonics.
Filters (Passive/Active) to suppress residual harmonics.
3. Can STATCOM Actively Mitigate Harmonics?
Limited Direct Harmonic Control: STATCOMs are not primarily designed as harmonic filters, but some advanced configurations (like hybrid STATCOMs with active filtering) can help mitigate harmonics.
Combined Solutions: STATCOMs are often paired with passive filters or active power filters (APFs) to address harmonics effectively.
While a STATCOM alone is not a dedicated harmonic filter, properly designed STATCOMs (with multilevel converters and filters) can reduce harmonic generation. For strong harmonic mitigation, a combination of STATCOM + Active/Passive Filters is typically used.