On the Use of the Flickermeter to Limit Low-Frequency Interharmonic Voltages

The possibility of using the IEC flickermeter for the assessment of the limits of low frequency interharmonic voltages is critically analyzed. The response of flickermeters to interharmonic components is analytically investigated, obtaining approximation formulas for the calculation of Pst in the presence of couples of components at frequencies that are symmetric with reference to the fundamental and in the presence of one or more single components. The instrument characteristics and limitations are also highlighted, using the results obtained from a numerical implementation of the IEC flickermeter. Finally, the general problem of the limits of low frequency interharmonic voltages is discussed and practical solutions are proposed.