The impact of "electrical power quality" on the safe operation of marine vessels

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive study of the electrical power system in ships, highlighting the close correlation between the quality of the electrical power used and the risk of maritime disasters. The paper addresses significant risks to human life and the natural environment, as well as the economic losses resulting from the degradation of electrical power quality. The paper emphasizes the importance of evaluating and improving the quality of electrical power to ensure the safety and efficiency of ship operations. The analyses and tests conducted on some ships indicate the need for comprehensive solutions to the problem of power quality in ship systems. The proposed measures include preventing electromagnetic disturbances, improving power quality in subsystems, increasing the immunity of receivers, and continuously monitoring power quality in ship networks. The paper stresses the necessity for electrical power quality to be a priority in the design, implementation, classification, and operation of ship power systems. This issue concerns all stakeholders such as ship manufacturers, owners, supervisory institutions, and marine classification societies. Solving the power quality issue requires appropriate knowledge and expertise, in addition to seeking new ways to reduce the impact of low power quality on the effective and safe operation of ships. In the past, voltage distortions in ship networks were primarily caused by switching operations in electrical switches and receivers, as well as the overvoltage that occurs when electrical fuses burn out. However, in the present, semiconductor converters such as AC-DC, DC-AC, DC-DC, and AC-AC have become the main cause of these distortions. THD can be measured using dedicated transformers for harmonic measurement in voltage and current by modern digital devices. Also, through smart meters that incorporate transformers to measure harmonics and link them with control and monitoring systems to provide accurate and immediate performance reports. Currently, several advanced algorithms are used such as cloud systems that continuously collect and analyze electrical data, making it easier to monitor performance and make quick decisions, thus improving energy efficiency and reducing wasted energy on ships. These distortions in ship networks can be measured using two main indicators: the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) index, which measures the degree of waveform distortion, and the Maximum Deviation Indicator of the Instantaneous Voltage Value, which measures the difference between the actual instantaneous voltage and the ideal instantaneous voltage. In summary, the paper highlights the necessity of prioritizing electrical power quality in ship systems and providing appropriate solutions to the challenges arising from it to ensure the safe and efficient operation of ships.

Substations, Active filters, Harmonic analysis, Distortion, Control systems, Compressors, Harmonic distortion, active filter, interharmonic distortion, power quality, Marine electrical networks.