Modern data centers introduce significant harmonic distortion from nonlinear loads and power electronics. This webinar will examine how harmonics are generated, how to evaluate their impact on electrical infrastructure, and provide solutions to mitigate power distortion to protect uptime, capacity, and long-term system performance throughout the entire facility.
Overview
Data centers rely on tightly engineered electrical infrastructure to deliver predictable performance at extreme load densities. However, the widespread use of nonlinear loads—UPS systems, switch-mode power supplies, variable frequency drives, and power conversion equipment—introduces harmonic currents that can significantly affect system reliability and capacity.
As rack densities increase and electrical systems operate closer to design limits, harmonic distortion becomes more than a power quality metric—it becomes a design and operational risk. Harmonics can contribute to transformer and conductor overheating, neutral overloading, increased losses, misoperation of protective devices, and reduced equipment life. In large-scale deployments, these effects can compound across distribution systems.
This webinar will provide a practical engineering-focused review of harmonics in data center environments. We will examine how harmonic currents are generated, how they propagate through electrical distribution systems, and how to interpret key indicators such as THiD, THvD, and system impedance interactions.
Gain insight into measurement approaches, modeling considerations during design, and how to determine when harmonic levels exceed acceptable thresholds. We will also discuss reliable mitigation solutions that can be designed into the system to protect system equipment and performance.
A must-attend for engineers responsible for delivering resilient, high-efficiency power systems for today’s modern data centers.
Key Takeaways
- Understand how power distortion is generated in modern data center electrical systems
- Recognize the warning signs and measurable indicators of power distortion
- Interpret harmonic measurement data to determine when corrective action is required
- Assess the impact of power distortion on uptime, capacity and equipment life
- Evaluate mitigation strategies and design approaches to control power distortion and protect critical infrastructure
Speakers
Aisha Bajwa joined MTE in 2023 and provides technical and sales support across U.S. and international markets. She has a robust background in the electrical power industry and specializes in consultative sales, problem-solving, and value creation for clients. Bajwa holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Arizona State University and brings a strong focus on delivering innovative solutions and educational support to meet complex customer needs.
Rick Hombsch brings over a decade of experience with the company since joining in 2013 and advancing through multiple engineering roles. He leads MTE’s team of electrical and mechanical engineers and oversees the test lab in support of product development. Hombsch holds a B.S. in Engineering Physics from the University of Wisconsin–Platteville and is currently pursuing his MBA.