We will try to understand Detuned Reactors and analyse their usage and benefits. Detuned reactors, that are three-phase inductors dedicated to attenuating the amplification of harmonics in harmonic rich networks, protect the different components of the installation.

What are Detuned reactors?

Detuned Reactors prevent harmonic amplification caused due to RESONANCE and avoid the risk of overloading capacitors, thereby significantly reducing voltage and current harmonic distortion in the network. All connected equipment, and even remote substations are subject to voltage fluctuations which may result in equipment malfunction or failure. To avoid this problem, it is common to insert reactors in series with capacitor banks.

The reactor also by its nature will safeguard capacitor and associated switch gears against switching inrush, which other may damage capacitors, circuit breakers and contactors.

Why use Detuned reactor?

Presence of Harmonic distortion due to the non-linear loads within the network or due to import of harmonic from grid or power source will increases the current flowing through capacitors as the capacitive reactance is inversely proportional to the frequency, consequently capacitors will be subjected to overload. The overload on capacitors can cause premature failure in capacitor due to increased voltage and thermal stress on dielectric.