Optimal design of passive harmonic filters using Bee Colony Optimization

The harmonic problem is as a consequence of nonlinear power electronic devices in powering industrial distribution systems. A filter is a necessary equipment in the power system to reduce or eliminate harmonics.In this paper, the optimal design of filters to reduce total harmonic distortion (THD) has been investigated using the Matlab/Simulink. Bee Colony Optimization (BCO) is applied as optimization technique takes into account the total filter size due to the reduction of THD. Single tuned and double tuned filters are considered, and their passive elements are derived to obtain the strength of both filters in the reduction of distortion. The BCO results are much better than conventional harmonic filter design methods and the distortion has been decreased.