Single phase UPS systems loaded with nonlinear circuits: analysis of topology in the context of electric power quality

Along with the increase in the use of nonlinear electronic devices, e.g. personal computers, power tools and other electrical appliances, the requirements for uninterruptible power supplies are constantly growing. This paper proposes a method and deep analysis of results viable for checking how single-phase uninterruptible power supplies (UPSs) cope with nonlinear circuits under varying power loads in terms of electric energy quality. Various classes of single-phase UPS systems with different topologies were tested, for instance line-interactive and double conversion (online) single-phase UPS devices. Furthermore, measurements were carried out in view of a power source – loads were supplied both from a power grid and UPS built-in battery. Juxtaposition of the obtained results such as a THDU , THDI (Total Harmonic Distortion) percentage ratio of input/output voltage and current, a power factor and crest factor volume etc. of the tested UPS systems indicated major differences in their performance during laboratory tests.