Root Cause Analysis

When referring to component failures we are referring to fuses blowing, surge protectors failing, automatic transfer switch failures, switch gear failure, CT's and PT's etc. The failure of these components can be due to power quality problems. High magnitude and fast rise time contribute to insulation breakdown in electrical equipment like rotating machinery, transformers, capacitors, cables, CT's, PT's and switchgear.

Computer problems are most associated with sags and swells. In many cases, even instantaneous short duration phenomena can cause computer power off or data corruption. Lightning or switching operations can also result in computer power off, data corruption or even damaged equipment. High harmonic levels can be another culprit that can cause computer problems.

Digital clocks can be found to run fast or slow when a frequency variation occurs. Frequency variations can affect the operation of rotating machinery or process, which derive their timing from the power frequency such as clocks. The power system frequency is directly related to the rotational speed of generators on the system.