Filter Resistors
The ever-increasing use of power electronics and other solid state devices, which generate harmonic voltages, make the issue of power quality more and more important both for suppliers and users of electrical power.
Complex waveforms created by solid-state devices in power system converters, motor controls, etc. feed harmonics into power systems, causing trouble with equipment connected elsewhere in the system.
The solution is higher order harmonic filters consisting of capacitors, inductors and resistors tuned to eliminate specific frequencies. The capacitors and inductors allow the fundamental frequency through and divert the harmonics into the filter resistor where the harmonic currents are dissipated as heat and thus lost from the system.
Fortress Systems, often in partnership with Post Glover or other group companies, design, build and test filter resistors in accordance with applicable IEC and IEEE standards to guarantee their performance. With no two installations ever being the same, our experienced engineers develop the proper solution for your particular application and environment. Our low inductance designs are built using all stainless steel elements in corrosion resistant enclosures chosen for your unique specification. Post Glover’s reputation in filter resistors has been built on over 100 years of field performance and independent test facilities, where they have proven their engineering and manufacturing prowess to be second to none.
Design Considerations with Filter Resistors
Power Dissipation
This power is partially stored in the mass of the resistor elements before being transferred to the surrounding environment through convection cooling. Not only is the overall mass of the current carrying material important, but also:
- The surface area of the resistor elements
- The temperature difference between ambient air and the heating elements
- The cumulative effect of the resistors on each other
Resistance Value
The overall filter design dictates the required resistance. As such, it is imperative the Customer specify the nominal value of the resistor as well the desired tolerance.
Additionally, the inherent inductance of the resistor may affect the performance of the filter. Fortress engineers their resistor assemblies to not only minimize this inductance, but also limit the change in resistance as the elements heat up to guarantee a stable operating profile.
Voltage/Insulation class
The resistor must be designed in accordance with local standards (IEEE, IEC, etc.) and consider line to line voltage, arcing distances, creepage distances, BIL withstand level and any expected voltage transients.
Current Rating
The resistive elements, along with the internal and external connections have to be carefully considered and engineered to carry not only the rated current, but also periodic high current transients.
Miscellaneous
Other factors can contribute to the design of the resistor, including physical conditions of the site such as the level of atmospheric pollution, seismic zone, corrosive environment, wind and altitude.
Why use Fortress Filter Resistors?
The Fortress Difference
Fortress has a history of successfully managing large projects and provides value to customers by ensuring we understand the customer’s requirements and expectations. We place an equal importance on technical capability, manufacturing to deadlines, and providing documentation and drawings in a concise and timely manner.
Choice
An extensive range of resistor elements allows selection of the most efficient and cost effective solution for any required duty.
Predictability
The change in resistance with temperature during operation is small and predictable. We use low-inductance resistor elements for easy matching with capacitors and inductors.
Reliability
Filter resistors may operate continuously over their service life, which may be 25 years or more. Reliability is essential; elements from Fortress and Post Glover have been proven over many years in conditions of severe vibration and extreme climate worldwide.
Enclosure Materials and Design
The standard enclosure material is mill galvanised steel with an epoxy powder coat finish. Alternative materials include both GR304 & GR316 stainless steel.
As standard we offer IP23 enclosures. They keep out birds and vermin and are suitable for outdoor use whilst also allowing good ventilation. We routinely supply cyclone wind load rated enclosures to customers in harsh coastal environments and seismic rated enclosures for earthquake prone areas.
Whilst our standard range of enclosures are suitable for most applications we are also happy to provide custom designed equipment if your application requires it.
