What is the impact of 'harmonic distortion' on electrical equipment connected to a ship's power grid?

Harmonic distortion on a ship's power grid, which refers to the presence of unwanted frequency components (harmonics) in the voltage and current waveforms, can have several detrimental effects on electrical equipment. Harmonics are integer multiples of the fundamental frequency (typically 50 or 60 Hz). Nonlinear loads, such as variable frequency drives (VFDs), electronic power supplies, and arc furnaces, generate these harmonics. One major impact is increased heating in electrical equipment, particularly transformers and motors. Harmonic currents cause additional losses in the windings and core, leading to overheating and reduced lifespan. Harmonics also increase the stress on insulation, potentially causing premature failure. Harmonic voltages can cause malfunctions in sensitive electronic equipment, such as PLCs, computers, and communication systems. These devices are designed to operate with a clean sinusoidal voltage waveform, and harmonics can interfere with their internal circuitry, leading to errors or shutdowns. Harmonics can cause incorrect readings from metering equipment, leading to inaccurate billing or control decisions. Harmonic currents can also cause increased neutral currents in three-phase systems, potentially overloading the neutral conductor and creating a fire hazard. Finally, harmonics can cause resonance in the power system, amplifying the harmonic voltages and currents and further exacerbating the problems. To mitigate these effects, harmonic filters are often installed to reduce the level of harmonic distortion in the power system.