----------------------- Page 1----------------------C

Learning Objectives
Introduction
SYMMETRICAL
The Positive-sequence
Components
The Negative-sequence
COMPONENTS
Components
The Zero-sequence
Components
Graphical Composition of
Sequence Vectors
Evaluation of V

or V
A 1
V

or V

Evaluation of
A2
V

or V

Evaluation
A0

Zero Sequence
Components of Current
and Voltage
Unbalanced Star Load form
Unbalanced Three-phase
Three-Wire System
Unbalanced Star Load
Supplied from Balanced
Three-phase Three-wire
System
Measurement of
Symmetrical Components of

R 23

Circuits
Measurement of Positive and
Negative-sequence
Voltages
Measurement of ZeroAny unbalanced 3-phase system of
vectors (whether representing voltag

sequence Component of
es
Voltage

or currents) can be resolved into th

ree
balanced systems of vectors which a
re
called its 'symmetrical components
'
----------------------- Page 2----------------------836

Electrical Technology

23.1.

Introduction

The method of symmetrical components was first proposed by C.L. Fortescue

and has been
found very useful in solving unbalanced polyphase circuits, for analytical deter
mination of the
Fig. 23.1
Fig. 23.2
performance of polyphase electrical machinery when operated from
a system of unbalanced
voltages and for calculation of currents resulting from unbalanced faults. Accor
ding to Fortescues
theorem, any unbalanced 3-phase system of vectors (whether representing voltages
or currents) can
be resolved into three balanced systems of vectors which are called its symmetric
al components.
In Fig. 23.1 (a) is shown a set of three unbalanced voltage vectors V , V and
V having phase
A

sequence
A B C .
These
the following
symmetrical
components :(i) A balanced system of
V
having the phase sequence

can
3-phase

be

regarded
vectors

as
V

made
, V

up

of

and

A 1 B 1
C1
A B C as the original set of three unbalanced vectors. These vectors constitut
e the positivesequence components [Fig. 23.1 (b)].
(ii) A balanced system of 3-phase vectors
V , V and
V
A 2 B2
C2
having phase sequence A C B which is opposite to that of the

original unbalanced vectors. These vectors constitute the negativesequence components [Fig. 23.1 (c)].
(iii) A system of three vectors V
, V
and V
which are equal
A0

B0

C0

in magnitude and are in phase with each other i.e. V

.

= V
A 0

= V
B0

C0
These three co-phasal vectors form a uniphase system and are known
as zero-sequence components [Fig. 23.1(d).]
Hence, it means that an unbalanced 3-phase system of voltages
or current
can be regarded
as due to the superposition
two
symmetrical 3-phase systems having opposite phase sequences and a
system of zero phase sequence i.e. ordinary single-phase current
or
voltage system. In Fig. 23.2, each of the original vectors has been
3-phase monitor continuously

of

monitors 3-phase wave lines for

abnormal conditions
----------------------- Page 3----------------------Symmetrica
l Components

837

reconstructed by the vector addition

egative - sequence and zerosequence components. It is seen that

of

its

positive-sequence,

ve
ve
zero
= V + V
+ V

V
... (i)
A
V

A 1
= V

A 2
+ V

A 0
+ V

... (ii)
B
VC

B 1
VC 1

B 2

Bo

VC 2

VC 0

... (iii)
23.2.
as V

The Positive

sequence Components

As seen from above, the positive sequence components have been designated
, V
and

A 1 B 1
VC1. The subscript 1 is meant to indicate that the vector belongs to the positiv
e sequence system.
The letter refers to the original
vector of which the positive sequence ve
ctor is a component part.
These positive sequence vectors are completely determined when the magnit
ude and phase of
any one of these is known. Usually, these vectors are related to each other with

the help of the

operator a (for details, please refer to Art. 12.11). As seen from Fig. 23. 1 (b
).
V

2
= V ; V
= a V
A1
A 1 B 1

= V

120; V

A1

= aV

A 1

== V

C1

A1

120
A

1
23.3.

The Negative

sequence Components

This system has a phase sequence of

A C B . Since this system
is also balanced, it is
completely
determined when the magnitude and phase of one of the vectors bec
omes known. The
suffix 2 indicates that the vector belongs to the negative sequence system. Obvi
ously, as seen from
Fig. From 23.1 (c).
V

= V ; V

= a V

= V

2
= a V

120 ; V

= V

120
A2

A2

B2

A2

A2

C2

A2

A2
23.4.

The Zero

sequence Components

These three vectors are equal in magnitude and phase and hence form what
is known as
uniphase system. They are designated as V
, V
and V . Since t
hese are indentical in magnitude
A0 B0
C0

= V
A0

23.5.

= V
B0

C0

Graphical Composition of Sequence Vectors

Fig. 23.2 Shows how the original vector V has been obtained by the addit
ion of V
, V and
A
A 1 A2
V . The same applies to other vectors V and V .
A 0
B
C
For simplicity, let us write V
V . Then

as V , V
AI

as V and V
1

A2

as

A0

0
V

= V + V + V

... (iv)
A
V

2
= a V + aV + V

... (v)
B

2
2

= aV + a V + V

... (vi)
C
23.6.

Evaluation of V

or V
A1

The procedure for evaluating V is as follows :

1
2
Multiplying (v) by a and (vi) by a , we get
3
4

a V

= a V + a V

2
aV

= a V + a V + aV ;

+ a V
B
2

0
3
4
a = 1and a = a, hence

Now
Page 4
838

Electrical Technology
2
= V + a V + aV
... (vii)
B
1
2

aV

2
a V

2
= V + aV + a V
.... (viii)
C
1
2
0

Adding (iv), (vii) and (viii), we get

2
V

+ aV

+ a V
B

= 3V + V (1 + a + a ) + V (1 + a + a ) = 3V
C
1
2
0

1
1

120

210

)
V

+ aV
A

+ a V

+ V

+ V

1
V

V
A

C
3
j

1
V

3
j

C
2

This shows that, geometrically speaking, V is a vector one third as larg

e as the vector
1
obtained by the vector addition of the three original vectors V , V
120 and V

120.
A

C
23.7.

Evaluation of V

or V
A2

2
(v) by a and adding them to (iv) we get
2
4
3
2
aV ;a V = a V + a V + a V
2
0
B
1
2
0
2
2

Multiplying (vi) by a and

2
3
aV = a V + a V +
C
1
2
2
V + a V + aV = V (1
a + a = 0
A
B
C
2

+ a + a ) + 3V + V (1 + a + a ) = 3V Now , 1 +
1

2
1
(VA + a VB + aVC ) =
(VA + VB
3
3

V2 =

120+VC

1
3
1
V + V
j
+ V
+ j
3 A
B 2
2
C 2

23.8.

Evaluation of V

or V
A0

Adding (iv), (v) and (vi), we get V

+ V (1+ a + a2 ) + 3V
= 3V

+ V
A

120 )

+ V
B

= V (1+ a + a2 )
C

(V

+ V
A

+ V )
C

3
It shows that V is simply a vector one third as large as the vector obta
ined by adding the
0
original vectors V , V
and V .
A
B
C
To summarize the above results, we have
1
(i) V =

(V

2
+ a V

+ aV
A

1
)

(ii) V

2
a V

(V
A

aV
B

)
C

3
1

(iii) V =
0

(V

+ V
A

+ V
B

)
C

3
Note. An unbalanced system
e likewise resolved into its
symmetrical components. Hence

of

3 phase

currents

can

also

IA = I1 + I 2 + I 0 ;IB = a I1 + aI 2 + I 0 ;IC = aI1 + a I2

+ I0
1
2
1
2
1
Also, as before I1 =
(IA + aIB + a IC );I2 = (IA + a IB + aIC
);I0 = (IA + IB + IC ) ... (ix)
3
3
3
It shows that I is one third of the neutral or earth return current and i
s zero for an unearthed
0
3 wire system. It is seen from (ix) above that I is zero if the vector sum of t
he original current
0
vectors is zero. This fact can be used with advantage in making numerical calcul
ations because the
original system of vectors can then be reduced to two balanced 3 phase systems h
aving opposite
phase sequences.
Page 5
Symmetrical Compo
nents

839

Example 23.1. Find out the positive, negative and zero phase sequence comp
onents of the
following set of three unbalanced voltage vectors:
V = 10
A

30;V

= 30 60;V

= 15 145

Indicate on an approximate diagram how the original vectors and their diff
erent sequence
components are located.
(Principles of Elect. Engg.
I, Jadavpur Univ.)
Solution. (i) Positive sequence vectors
As seen from Art. 23.6
1
V

(V

2
a V )

aV

1
(10

30

a.30

2
a .15

60

145

)
1

3
1
=

3
(10

30+30

60+ 15 25 ) = 12.42+ j 12.43 = 17.6

45

3
VA|

17.6

45 ; VB|

17.6

45

17.6 45
120

120

17.6

75

17.6 165

C1
These are shown in Fig. 23.1 (b)
(ii) Negativesequence vectors
As seen from Art. 23.7,
1
V
)

(V

2
a V

1
aV

(10 30

2
a .30

60

a.15

145

3
1

=
V

(10
3
8.24

30+ 30 180+ 15
156.2 ;V

A2

265 ) = 7.55 j 332.

8.24

156.2

120

= 8.24
8.24

156.2
36.2

B2

VC2
8.24
156.2
120
8.24
These vectors are shown inFig. 23.1 (c)
(iii) Zero sequence vectors

276.2

1
V =
0

(V

+ V + V )
B
C

A
3
1

(10 30+ 30 60+15 145 ) = 38.

3
These vectors
Example 23.2.
be resolved
into 3 symmetrical
Determine the

j 412. = 5.6

are shown in Fig. 23.1 (d).

Explain how an unsymmetrical system of 3 phase currents can
component systems.
values of the symmetrical components of a system of currents

I = 0+ j120A;I
R

= 50 j 100A;I

= 100 j50A

Phase sequence is RYB.

Engg. I Bombay, Univ.)
Solution. IR
IY

50

47.4

(Elect.

j 120 120

90

j 100 111.8

63.5 ; IB

100

j 50

111.8

15

3.5
(i) Positivesequence Components
1
1
2

3
I1
j 2

3 (I R aI Y a I B )
( 100
j 5 0)

3 (0

j 120)

2 j 2

(50 j 100)

Page 6
840
IB1

Electrical Technology
= 22.8 + j 108.3 = 110.7 781. IR1
110.7 198.1

110.7

78.1 ;IY1

110.7

41.9 ;

(ii) Negativesequence components

1

1
2

I2
.5

(IR

a IY

aIB )

( 18.3

105.7
3

j 65.1)

6.1

j 21.7

22

IR2

22.5

105.7 ; IY2

22.5 225 ; IB2

22.5

14.3

(iii) Zero sequence component

1
I0
)]

1
(IR

IY

IB )

[(0 j 120)

(50

j 100)

( 100

j 50

16.7

j 10
3
3
As a check, it may be found that
I R = I R1 + IR2 + I0 ;IY = IY1 + IY2 + I0 ;IB1 + IB2 + I0

Example 23.3. In a 3 phase, 4 wire system, the currents in the R, Y and B

lines under
abnormal conditions of loading were as follows:
I = 100 30;I
R

= 50 300;I

= 30 180

Calculate the positive, negative and zero phase sequence currents in the R
line and the
return current in the neutral conductor.
Solution. (i) The positive sequence components of current in the R line is
1
2
I 1 = (I R + aIY + a IB )
3
Now

IR

100

30

IY

50

300

50( 3

j )

1
50

3
j

25(1

j 3)

IB = 30 180 = (30 + j 0)
1

3
I1
j

58

50(

j ) 25(1

j 3 )

48.4
3

( 30)
2

2
(ii) The negativesequence components of the current in the R line is
1
2
I2 = (IR + a IY + aIB )
3
1

=
18.9

50(

j ) 25(1

j 3)

24.9
3

3
j

1
( 30)

3
j

(iii) The zerosequence component of current in the R line is

1
I0
7

1
(IR

IY

IB )

[50( 3

j ) 25(1

j 3)

30]

27.2 4.

3
The neutral current is
IN

IR

IY

3
IB

3 I0

3 27.2

4.7

81.6

4.7

Example 23.4. A 3 phase, 4 wire system supplies loads which are unequally
distributed on
the three phases. An analysis of the currents flowing in the direction of the lo
ads in the R, Y and
B lines shows that in the R line, the positive phase sequence current is 200
0 A and the
Page 7
Symmetrical Co
mponents

841

negative phase sequence current is 100

60. The total observed current f
lowing back to the
supply in the neutral conductor is 300
300 A. Calculate the currents in ph
ase and magnitude
in the three lines.
Assuming that the 3 phase supply voltages are symmetrical and that the pow
er factor of the
load on the R phase is
3 / 2 leading, determine the power factor of the
loads on the two other
phases.
Solution. It is given that in R phase [Fig. 23.3 (a)]
I R1 = 200 0 = (200 + j 0)A;IR2

= 100 60 = (50 + j 86.6)A

1
IR0 =

IN = (300 / 3) 300 = (50 j 86.6) A

3

(300

IR
IR1 IR2
j 0) 300
0

IR0

(200

j 0) (50

j 86.6)

(50

j 86.6)

Similarly, as seen from Fig. 23.3 (b) for the Y phase

I

= I
Y

+ I
Y1

2
= a I

+ I
Y 2

Y 0

+ aI
R1

+ I
R 2

R0

= 200 0120+100 60+120

+ 100 300= 100 j 1732.
100 + 50 j 86.6 = 150 j 259.8 = 300
Similarly, as seen from Fig. 23 3 (c) for the B phase
IB
60

IB1
120

IB2
100

IB0
300

aIR1

2
a IR2

IR0

200

120

100

0
Fig. 23.3

Page 8
842

Electrical Technology
Since the power factor of the R phase is

3 / 2 leading, the cu

240

rrent I

leads the voltage V

R
R
by 30 [Fig. 23.3(d)]
(d) Now, phase angle of I Y is 240 relative to IR
ts voltage VY by 30. Hence,

so that I Y leads i

power factor of Y phase is also

3 / 2 leading. The power factor of B lin
e is indeterminate because
the current in this line is zero.
Example 23.5. Prove that in a 3 phase system if V , V
and V are the three balanced
1
2
3
voltages whose phasor sum is zero, the positive and negative
sequence components can be
expressed as
1
V

=
1p

(V + V 60)
1
2

30 V

Phase sequence is 1 2 3.
A system of 3 phase currents is given as I
45 and I = 10

=
; 1N

(V + V
60)
1
2

= 10

180, I = 14.14

1
3
90. Determine phasor expression
these currents. Phase
sequence is 1 2 3.
ect. Engg I, Bombay Univ.)
Solution. As seen from Art. 23.6
1
V

for

the

components

of

(El

2
+ a V );Now, V + V

(V + aV

sequence

+ V

= 0

= (V + V

)
1P
1

2
3
1
V

[V + aV a
1
2

1P

(V + V )] =
1
2

2
)+ V (a a )]
2

3
2

Now,

2
[V (1 a
1

1 a

2
=

3
and a a

3
1
V
3

= j 3

2
3

V
1P

+ j
3
j
1 2

j 3V

1 2

1
[V 30 + V
1

90] =
2

(V + V
1

60)
2

3
3
Similarly, the negative sequence component is given by

j V
2

2
=

30

30

1
2
V
) + V (a

(V + a V + aV ) = [V + a V a(V + V )] =
a)]
1N
1
2
3
1
2
1
2
2
3
3
Now, a2 a = j
3
1
V

3
3
V
j
j
3 1 2
2

=
1N

3V =
2

1
30 + V
1

90] =
2

3
Now I =
1

13.66
12.25

3
10 180 = 10 + j 0;I2

I3 = 10 90= j 10
aI
14.14 75
j 3.66
2
aI
14.14
21
j 7.07
3

3.66

= 1414.

j 13.66;

3
1

j j V
1 2
2
2

(V + V 60) 30
1
2

45 = 10 j 10

14.14

a I2
j 707; 2

12.25

1
V
3

[V

[V (1 a

165

14.14

30

a I3

Page 9
Symmetrical
Components

843
1
I1P

(I1
3
1

I1N

(I1

2
1
a I 3 )
(5.91
j 6.59) 1.97
j 2.2
3
2
1
a I 2 aI3 )
( 35.91
j 10.73)
11.97
aI 2

j 3.58
3

3
1

I 10 = (I 1 + I 2 + I 3 ) = 0
3
Tutorial Problems No. 23.1
1. The following currents were recorded in the R, Y, and B lines of a 3 p
hase system under abnormal
conditions:
[IR = 300 300 A;IY = 500 2
40 A;IB = 1,000 60 A]
Calculate the values of the positive, negative and zero phase sequence co
mponents.
[I = 536
2 171 A;I

= 145

4420 A;I

2320 ]

= 37

1
2

2. Determine the symmetrical components of the three curr

ents I0 = 10 0 ; Ib = 100 250 and
IC = 10 110 A
[I = (39.45 + j 522) A; I = ( 20.24 + j 22.98) A;
I = ( 9.21 j 28.19) A]
1
2
0
(Elect. Meas & Measuring
Instru., Madras Univ.)
3. The three current vectors of a 3 phase, four wire system have the foll
owing values; IA = 7 + j 0, IB
= 12 j 13 and I = 2 + j 3. Find the symmetrical components. The phase sequence
is A , B, C
C
[I = 2.33 j 3.33; I = (27.75 j 3.67); I
= ( 17.05 j 22.22)
= ( 10.7 + j 25.9);
0
A1
B1
C1
IA2 = (0.25 + j 13.67) A; IB2 = ( 11.97 j 6.62
) A; IC2 = (11.73 j 7.05) A]
; I

23.9.

Zero Sequence Components of Current and Voltage

Any circuit which allows the flow of positive sequence currents will also
allow the flow of
negative sequence currents because the two are similar. However, a fourth wire i
s necessary if
zero sequence components are to flow in the lines of the 3 phase system. It foll
ows that the line
currents of 3 phase 3 wire system can contain no zero sequence components whethe
r it is delta
or star connected. The zero sequence components of line to line
voltages are non existent
regardless of the degree of imbalance in these voltages. It means that a set of
unbalanced 3 phase,
line to line voltages may be represented by a positive system and a negative sys
tem of balanced
voltages. This fact is of considerable importance in the analysis of 3 phase rot
ating machinery. For
example, the operation of an induction motor when supplied from an unbalanced sy
stem of 3 phase
voltages, may be analysed on the basis of two balanced systems of voltages of op
posite phase
sequence.
Let
us consider
some
typical
3 phase
connections
with
reference
to zero sequence
components of current and voltage.
(a) Four wire Star Connection. Due to the presence of the fourth wire, th
e zero sequence
currents may flow. The neutral wire carries only the zero sequence current which
is the sum of the
zero sequence currents in the three lines. Since the sum of line voltages is zer
o, there can be no
zero sequence component of line voltages.
(b) Three wire Star Connection. Since there is no fourth or return wire,
zero sequence

components of current cannot flow. The absence of zero sequence currents may be
explained by
considering that the impedance offered to these currents is infinite and that th
is impedance is
situated between the star points of the generator and the load. If the two star
points were joined by
a neutral, only zero sequence currents will flow through it so that only zero se
quence voltage can
exist between the load and generator star points. Obviously, no zero sequence co
mponent of
voltage appears across the phase load.
(c) Three wire Delta Connection. Due to the absence of f
ourth wire, zero sequence
components of currents cannot be fed into the delta connected load. However, tho
ugh line currents
Page 10
844

Electrical Technology

have to sum up to zero (whereas phase currents need not do so) it is possible to
have a zero
sequence current circulating in the delta connected load.
Similarly, individual phase voltages will generally possess zero sequence
components though
components are absent in the line to line voltage.*
23.10. Unbalanced Star Load Supplied from Unbalanced Three phase Three
wire System
In this case, line voltages and load currents will consi
st of only positive and negative
sequence components (but no zero sequence component). But load v
oltages will consist of
positive, negative and zero sequence components.
Let the line voltages be denoted by V
, V and V
, line (and l
oad) currents by I , I and
RY
YB
BR
R Y
I , the load voltages by V
, V
and V
and load impedances by Z , Z
, and Z (their values
B
RN
YN
BN
R
Y
B
being the same for currents of any sequence).
Obviously, V
RN

= I Z ; V
= I Z and V
= I Z
R R YN
Y Y
BN
B B

If VRN1, VRN2 and V0 are the symmetrical components of VRN , then we have
1

V0 =

(VRN + VYN + VBN ) =

3

(I R ZR + IYZY + IBZB )
3

1
=

[ZR (IR1 + IR2 ) + ZY (IY1 + IY2 )+ ZB (IB1 + IB2 )]

3
1

[ZR (I R1 + IR2 )+ ZY (a IR1 + aI P2 )+ ZB (aI R1 + a IR2 )]

3

1
2
1
2
= I R1 . (ZR + a ZY + aZB ) + I R2. (ZR + aZY + a ZB ) = I R1Z
R2 + IR2ZR1
3
3
... (i)
1

2
(VRN + aVYN + a VBN ) =

VRN1 =
3
1

2
(I RZR + aIYZY + a IBZB )

2
[ZR (IR1 + IR2 )]+ aZY (IY1 + IY2 )+ a ZB (IB1 + IB2 )

=
3

1
1
2
= I R1. (ZR + ZY + ZB ) + I R2. (ZR + a ZY + aZB ) = I R1Z0 +
I R2ZR2
... (ii)
3
3
V

= I
RN2

Z + I Z
R2 0
R1 R1

Similarly,

2
VYN1 = IY1Z0 + IY2ZY2 = a

VBN1 = IB1Z0 + IB2ZB2

VYN2

2
(I R1Z0 + I R2ZR2 ) = a VRN1

= a(I R1Z0 + I R2ZR2 ) = aVRN1

= IY2Z0 + IY1ZY1 = a(I R2Z0 + I R1ZR1 ) = aVRN2

2

2
(I R2 + Z0 + I R1ZR1 ) = a VRN2

VBN2 = IB2Z0 + IB1ZB1 = a

Now, VRN1 and VRN2 may be determined from the relation between the line an
d phase voltages
as given below:
VRY = VRN + VNY

= VRN VYN

= V0 + VRN1 + VRN2 (V0 + VRN1 + VYN2

]
*
However, under balanced conditions, the phase voltages will possess no zero
sequence components.
Page 11
Symmetrical Comp
onents

845
2
= VRN1 (1 a

1
) + VRN2 (1 a) =

3[VRN1 (

3 + j1) + VRN2 (

3 j

1)]
2
... (iii)
VYB = VYN + VNB

= VYN VBN

= V0 + VYN1 + VYN2 (V0 + VBN1 + V

BN2 )
2
= VRN1 (a
V

= V

2
a) VRN2 (a a ) = j 3.VRN1 + j
j V

RN 2

3VRN2

/ 3

RN1

YB

Substituting this value of VRN2 in Eq. (iii) above and simplifying, we hav
e
1

VRN1 =

[VRY +
3

VYB (1+ j

3)]

2
... (iv)

VRN2 =

[VRY +
3

VYB (1 j

3)]

... (v)
Having known VRN1 and VRN2, the currents IR1 and IR2 can be determined fro
m the following
equations:
(VRN 1Z 0 VRN 2ZR 2 )
2
... (vi)
Z Z Z
0
R1 R 2

IR 1 =

(ZRN2Z0 VRN1ZR1 )
2
... (vii)
Z Z Z
0
R1 R2

I R2 =

Alternatively, when IR1 becomes known, IR2 may be found from the relation
V
I R2 =

Z
R1 R1
... (viii)

RN2
Z

0
The symmetrical components of the currents in other phases can be calculat
ed from IR1 and
IR2 by using the relations given in Art. 23.8.
The phase voltages may be calculated by any one of the two methods given b
elow:
(i) directly by calculating the products I Z
, I Z and I Z .
R R Y Y
B B
(ii) by first calculating the zero sequence component V of the phase or l
oad voltages and
0
then adding this to the appropriate positive and negative sequence components.
For example, V
= V + V
+ V
RN
0
RN1
RN2

23.11. Unbalanced Star Load Supplied from Balanced Three phase, Three
wire System
It is a special case of the general case considered in Art. 23.10 above. I
n this case, the
symmetrical
components
of the load voltages consist only of po
sitive and zero sequence
components. This fact may be verified by substituting the value of VYB in Eq. (v
) of Art. 23.10.
Now, in a balanced or symmetrical system of positive phase sequence
1
VYB

VRY

2
2
Substituting this value in Eq. (v) above, we have
1
1
VRN2 = [VRY +
VYB (1 j 3)]
3
2
1
1
1
3
1
=
VRY +
.VRY j
(1 j 3) =
(VRY VRY ) = 0
3
2
2
2
3

Page 12
846

Electrical Technology

Hence, substituting this value of VRN2 in Eq. (iv) and (vi) of Art. 23.10,
we get
1
VRN1 = j VYB

3 =

1
VRY j

VRY / 3

... (i)
2
I R1 = VRN1Z0 / (Z0 ZR1ZR2 ) = VRN1

ZR + ZY + ZB
Z

+ Z

Z
Y

+ Z
B

Z
B

... (ii)
Z
I

= I
R2

.Z
R1

R1

/ Z = R1
0

= I
0

2
+ a Z

+ aZ
R

R1
Z

+ Z
R

+ Z
Y

... (iii)
Example 23.6 illustrates the procedure for calculating the current in an u
nbalanced star
connected load when supplied from a symmetrical three wire system.
Example 23.6. A symmetrical 3 phase, 3 wire, 440 V system supplies an unba
lanced Y
connected load of impedances Z = 5
30 ; Z = 10
45 , Z
60 . Phase
R
Y

= 10

B
sequence is R Y B . Calculate in the rectangular complex form the symmetrical
components
of the currents in the R line.
(Elect
. Engg. I, Bombay Univ.)
Solution. As shown in Fig. 23.4, the branch impedances are
ZR

30

(4.33

j 2.5)

ZY

10

45

(7.07

ZB

10

60

(5 j 8.66)

j 7.07

aZY = 10 165 = 10( 0.966 + j 0.259)

= 9.66 + j 2.59)
2
a ZY
j0.966)

2.59

aZB

(5

mpedances

required

75

10 180

2
a ZB

Fig. 23.4
j 8.66)

j 0.866)

10

10(0.259

j9.66

The

10

( 10

60

symmetrical

j 0)

10(0.5
component

for
calculation purposes are as follows:

Z0

(ZR

ZY

ZB )

(16.4

j 18.23)

(5.47

j 6.08)

2
(ZR + ZY + a ZB )

ZR1 =
3
1
=

(4.33 + j 2.5 9.66 + j 2.59 + 5 j 8.66)

3
1

(0.33 j 357. ) = 011. j 119.

3
1

ZR2 =

2
(ZR + a ZY + aZB )

3
1
=

1
(4.33 + j 2.5 + 2.59 j 9.66 10 + j 0) = (308. j 716. ) = 103. j

2.55
3

3
Page 13

Symmetrical Comp
onents

847
Now
2
Z0 ZR1ZR2

1
=

(ZR ZY + ZY ZB + ZBZR )
3

1
=

[50 75

100

105

50 90 ]

( 4.31

j 65)

3
Let VRY be taken as the reference vectors so that VRY
1

1
VRY j . VRY /

Then, VRN1 =
3 = (220 j 127)
2
6

j 643
Now,

IR1

2
VRN1 .Z0

1
3 =

1
(440 + j 0) j

(440 + j 0) /

(220

2
j 6.08)

j 127)(5.47

198

2
(Z0

.31

= (440 + j 0)

ZR ZR

( 4.31

j 65)

( 4

j 65)
1

2088 18
316
=

=
66 4
.
I

75 8
7 75
30 6
. ( . j . )A

93 8
.

= I
R2

Z
/ Z
R2 R1
0

(7.75 j 30.6)(011. j 119. ) (37.25 + j 5.88)

=
(5.47 + j 6.08)
(5.47 + j 6.08)
37.75 9

= 4.61 39 = (328. j 2.66)A

818. 48
Hence, the symmetrical components of IR are:
Positive sequence component = (7.75 j 30.6) A
Negative sequence component = (3.28 j 2.66) A
Note. (i) I = I + I
R
R1
R2
(ii) Symmetrical components of other currents are
2
2
IY = a IB1 and IY2 = aIR2 ; IB1 = aI R1 and IB2 = a I R2
Example 23.7. A balanced
phase, 4 wire
supply. If the fuses in two of
l components of the
line currents before and after
Solution. The circuit is

star connected load takes 75 A from a balanced 3

the supply lines are removed, find the symmetrica
the fuses are removed.
shown in Fig. 23.5.

Before uses are removed

IR

75

0 ; IY

75

120 ; IB

75

120
1
I1
0

75

360 ) 75

(I R aI Y

2
1
a I B ) (75

3
1
120

75 240 )

(IR

2
a IY

1
aIB )

(75 0
3

1
I0
75

0
3

120

75

I2
5

0 A

120 )

1
(IR

IY

IB )

(75

75

0.
3

Fig. 23.5
After fuses are removed
I R = 75 0 ;IY

= IB = 0

1
I1

(75

0 0)

25 0

3
Page 14
848

Electrical Technology
I2 = 25 0 ,I0

= 25 0

Example 23.8. Explain the terms: positive , negative and zero sequence co
mponents of a
3 phase voltage system. A star connected load consists of three equal resistors,
each of 1

resistance. When the load is connected to an unsymmetrical 3 phase supply, the l

ine voltages are
200 V, 346 V and 400 V.
Find
the magnitude
of the current in any one phase by the
method
of symmetrical
components.
(Power
Systems II, A.M.I.E.)
Solution. This question could be solved by using the following two methods
:
(a) As shown in Fig. 23.6(a), the line voltages form a closed right angled
triangle with an
angle = tan 1(346 / 200) = tan 1(1732. ) = 60
Hence, if VAB = 200
0, then VBC = 346
90 = j 346 and VCA = 400
As seen from Eq. (iv) and (v) of Art. 23.10
1
V

=
AN1

1
V

3 AB

2
1

(1+ j
BC
3

3)

120.

200 + + j
(j 346) = 166.7 j 57.7
3
2
2

1
3
V
+ V

3 AB
BC 2 2

=
AN2

1
1
3

200 + j
(j 346) = 33.3 j 57.7
3
2
2

Fig. 23.6
Now, ZA + ZB + ZC
a

= 3

2
0 )
ZA1 = ZA + aZB + a ZC

a2

Similarly,
Z

Z
A

Z
B

and 1
C

2
+ a Z + aZ
= 0
A
B
C

= Z
A2

= 0 (because

Hence, from Eq. (ii) of Art. 23.10 we have VAN1 = IA1Z0

AAN1 / Z0

IA1 =

1
Now, Z0

(ZA

ZB

ZC )

3/ 3

IA1 = (166.7 j 57.7) A

3
I

= V
AS

IA
40.7 A

/Z = 33.3 j 57.7 I = I
+ I
(
0
A
A1
A2

AN2
(166.7

j 57.7)

( 33.3

j 57.7)

133.4

I0

0 )

j 115.4 176.4

Page 15
Symmetrical Compo
nents

849

(b) Using Millmans theorem and taking the line terminal A as reference poi
nt, the voltage
between A and the neutral point N is
V
Y
V Y
VNA
BA B
CA C
j 115.3 176.4 139.3
Y
Y
Y
A
B
C
4

VAN
40.7

176.4 139.3
... as before

200

180

400

120

1
133.3

3
180

176.4

40.7

IA

IAN / Z

176.

Example 23.9. Three equal impedances of (8 + j6) are connected in star acr
oss a 3 phase,
3 wire supply. The phase voltages are V = (220 + j0), V = ( j220) and V = ( 1

00 + j220) V.
A
B
C
If there is no connection
between
the load neutral and the suppl
y neutral, calculate the
symmetrical components of A phase current and the three line currents.
Solution. Since there is no fourth wire, there is no ze
ro component current. Moreover,
IA + IB + IC = 0 . The symmetrical components of the A phase voltages are
1
V 0
0

*
(220

j 220 100

j 220)

40V

3
1

VA1

[220

( 0.5

j 0.866)( j 220)

( 0.5

j 0.866)( 100

j 2

20)]
3
1
=

[(660 + j 86.6)] = (220 + j 28.9)V

3
1

VA2

[220

( 0.5

j 0.866)( j 220)

( 0.5 j 0.866)(

100

220)]
3
1
=

( 120 j 86.6) = ( 40 j 28.9)V

3
The component currents in phase A are
VA1
I

220 + j 28.9

= (19.33 j 10.89)A

A1
(8 + j 6)
V
IA2

(8 + j 6)
( 40

A2
(8 j 6)

j 28.9)
( 4.93

(8

j 0.09)A

j 6)
2

IA = IA1 + IA2 = (14.4 j 10.8)A;IB = IB1 + BB2 = a

1
I

3
j

1
(19.93

j 10.89)

3
j

IA1 +a IA2

( 4.93

j 0.09)

Example 23.10. Two equal impedance arms AB and BC are connected to the ter
minals A, B,
C of a 3 phase supply as shown in Fig. 23.7. Each capacitor has a reactance of X
=
3R . A high
impedance voltmeter V is connected to the circuit at points P and Q as shown. If
the supply line
voltages VAB, VBC, VCA are balanced, determine the reading of the voltmeter (a)
when the phase

sequence of the supply voltages is

A B C and (b) when the phase sequence
is reversed.
Hence, explain how this network could be employed to measure, respectively, the
positive and
negative phase sequence voltage components of an unbalanced 3 phase supply.
*

However, it is not required in the problem.

Page 16

850

Electrical Technology

Solution. The various currents and voltages are shown in Fig. 23.7.
Phase Sequence ABC
Taking VAB as the refere
nce vector, we have
2
VAB = V(1+ j0);VBC
= a V;VCA = aV
As seen from the diagram
,
V
V

V
AB
I

B
AB

3 ( 3

3R

jX

)
R

j
V

2
a V
I

BC
BC
3R

jX

3R

Now, VPO + VOQ

= VP

j )

Q
Also, VPQ
) + IBC .2R
Fig. 23.7
2
a V

V
R 1 j 3
. (
) +

=
3R(

3 j)
V

.(
1 j

=
3( 3 j )

2R
.
3R(

+
3

2 )
2a

3 j)
a2

1
2

3
2

= IAB (R jX

.(j 2 3 )

3( 3 j )

PQ

Hence, the voltmeter which is not phase sensitive will read the line volta
ge when phase
sequence is A B C .
Phase Sequence ACB
In this case, V
= V(1+ j0);
AB

2
= a V

= aV; V
BC

Also,

VPQ

CA

= VPO + VOQ
(
)
V R jX

.
aV 2R

= IAB (R jX ) + IBC .2R.=

+
3.R ( 3 j )

3.R ( 3 j )

(1 j

3 + 2a ) =

(1 j

3 1+ j 3)

= 0
3(

3 j )

3(

3 j )

Hence, when the phase sequence is reversed, the voltmeter reads zero.
It can be proved that with sequence ABC , the voltmeter
reads the positive sequence
component (V ) and with phase sequence ACB , it reads the negative sequence comp
onent (V ) with
1
2
phase sequence ABC
V

2
V
j 3)
PQ
Q

)(1

AB
2(a V

(R
aV )]

j 3R )

2R

[(V

V
1

1
3R

j 3.R

3R

1
=
3)

BC

2
3 + 2a ) + V (1 j

[V 1 j

VPQ

j 3R

j 3
1

3 + 2a )] =

V (j 2

= V1
1

1
3 j

3 j 3

Page 17
Symmetrical C
omponents

851

With phase sequence ACB

1
VPQ

[ (V
3

V ) (1
2

j 3)

2(a V

a2 V
1

)]
2

2
[V ( j
+ a ) + V ( j
+ a
1 1
3 2
2 1
3 2

)]

3 j 3
1
=

[V (j 2
2

3 )] V

= V
PQ

3 j 3
23.12. Measurement of Symmetrical Components of Circuits
The apparatus consists of two identical current transformers, two impedanc
es of the same
ohmic value, one being more inductive than the other to the extent that its phas
e angle is 60
greater and two identical ammeters A greater and two identical ammeters A an
d A as shown in
1
1
2
Fig. 23.8 (a). It can be shown that A reads positive sequence current only whil
e A reads negative
1
2
sequence current only. If the turn ratio of the current transformer is K , then
keeping in mind that
zero sequence component is zero, we have
Fig. 23.8
Ia = I R / K = (I 1 + I 2) / K
where
I1 and I2 are the positive
components of the line current respectively.
Similarly,

and

negative sequence

2
Ib = IY / K = (a I1 + aI 2) / K
If the impedance of each
impedance between points B and D is

ammeter

is

RA + jKA ,

then

ZBD
(R RA
jX A )
The value of Z is so chosen that
Current transformers
ZAC

Z
RA
jX A
(R RA
jX A ) 60
ZBD
60
For finding the current read by A , imagine a break at point X . Thevenin
voltage across the
1
break X is
Page 18
852

Electrical Technology
V

= I Z

+ I Z

= I Z

= I Z

60+IaZ

= (I

60+I

Z
th
a

BD

AC

BD

b BD

b BD

BD

Total impedance in series with this Thevenin voltage is

3
Z

Z
T

Z
AC

Z
BD

60
BD

j
BD

BD

The current flowing normally through the wire in which a break has been im
agined is
Vth
I

I
=

ZT

60+I

2
1 (a I 1 + aI 2 ) 60+I 1 + I 2

b
a
=
(3 / 2) + j ( 3 / 2) K

1 I1(1 300
=

1)

I 2 (1 180

3 30
1)

I1

60
3 30
K
reads positive sequence current only. The ammeter A

K
It means that A
ads current which is

re

1
2
1
= Ia

Ib

I =

(I + I + I
240+I
1
2
1

120I
2

60 )
2

K
I1 1
3
1
3 I 2
1 j

+ j
+
(I+ 1 120) =
K
2
2
2
2 K

In other words, A reads negative sequence current only.

2

I 2

Now, it will be shown that the

ron ammeter of Fig. 23 8(b) is
proportional to the zero sequence component.

reading

of

60
K

the

moving i

I0 = 1 (IR + IY + IB ) = K IR + IY + IB

3
3 K
K
K
K
=

K
(current through the ammeter) =

ammeter reading.
3
3
It is obvious that for I to be present, the system must be 3 phase, 4 wir
e. However, when the
0
fourth wire is available, then I may be found directly by finding the neutral c
urrent I
. In that case
0
N
1
I
0
I N .
3
23.13. Measurement of Positive and Negative sequence *Voltages

With reference to Fig. 23.9 (a), it can be shown that the three voltmeters
indicate only the
positive sequence component of the 3 phase system.
Fig. 23.9
* It is supposed to possess infinite impedance.
Page 19
Symmetrical Compo
nents

853
The line to neutral voltage can be written (with reference to the red phas

e) as
V

= V + V

2
= a V + aV

+ V ;V

2
= aV + a V

+ V ;V

+ V
RN

YN

0 BN

0
2
V

= V
RY

+ V

= V

RN

NY

V
RN

= (1 a

)V + (1 a)V
1
2

YN

2
2
= (a a)V + (a a )V
1
2

VYB = VYN + VNB = VYN VBN

VRY (r 1/ j C )

V
DY

(R

(r

VYB .R

V
1/ j C )

YE

(R

1/ j C )

1/ j C )

V
DE

V
RY

(R

r 1/ j C )

YB
(r

1/ j C )

The different equation of the bridge circuit are so chosen that

R

2
= a

1
=

r + j1/ C

3
+ j

r
or R =

3
+

1
+

2C

+ j
j2C

Equating the j -terms or quadrature terms on both sides,
e have

1
0 =

+ j
... (i)
j 2C
2

3r

Similarly, equating the reference or real terms,
e have

r
R =

+
2

3r
+
= 2r
... (ii)
2C
2
2
=

3r
2

r + 1/ jC

r j 3r
=

R + r + 1/ C
1

and

r(1 j

3)

=
3r j 3r

30

=
DE

=
r(3 j 3)

30
3

2
2 2
2
2
[(1 a )V + (1 a)V
a (a a)V a (a a )V ]
1
2
1

2
3
1 30
=
[

2
(1 a

4
3
a + a )V1

3
1 a = a2 (a a2 )] =

3V

30
1

Hence, the voltmeter connected between points D and E measures

3 times the positive
sequence component of the phase voltage. So do the other two voltmeters.
In Fig. 23.9 (b), the elements have been reversed. It can be shown that pr
ovided the same
relation is maintained between the elements, the high impedance voltmeter measur
es
3 times the
negative sequence component of phase voltage.
23.14. Measurement of Zero sequence Component of Voltage
The zero sequence voltage is given by
1
V0 =

(VRN + VYN + VBN )

3

Page 20
854

Electrical Technology
Fig. 23.10 indicate

s one method of measuring

V . As seen
0
V
V

Y + V

V
YN

Y +

Y
BN

RN

NN

3Y
1
=

(VRN

+ VYN + VBN ) = V0
3
Hence, voltmeter co
nnected between the neutral
Fig. 23.10
equence component of the

points measures the zero s

voltage.
Tutorial Problem No. 23.2

1. Explain the essential features in

an unsymmetrical three phase system of
voltages or currents by symmetrical components.

the

representation

of

In a three phase system, the three line currents are; IR = (30 + j 50)A,
IY = (15 j 45)A,IB = (40 + j 70)
A. Determine the values of the positive, negative and zero sequence components.
[52.2
A, 19.3 A, 25.1 A] (London Univ .)
2. The phase voltages of a three phase, four wire system are; VRN = (200 +
j 0) V, VYN = (0 j 200) V,
VBN = ( 100 + j
100) V. Show that these voltages can be replaced by symmetrica
l components of positive,
negative and zero sequence and calculate the magnitude of each component.
Sketch vector diagrams representing the positive, negative and zero sequen
ce components for each of
the three phases.
[176
V, 38 V, 47.1 V] (London Univ .)
3. Explain,
with the aid of a diagram of connections,
a met
hod of measuring
the symmetrical
components of the currents in an unbalanced 3 phase, 3 wire system.
If in such a system, the line currents, in amperes, are
IR = (10 j 2),IY = ( 2 j 4),IB = ( 8+ j 6)
2
Calculate their symmetrical components.
IR1 = 7.89 + j 0.732; IY1 = a IR1 ;

[IRO = IYO = IBO = 0;

I

2
B1 = aIR1 IR2 = 2.1
13j 2.732; IY2 = aIR2 ; IB2 = a IR2]
OBJECTIVE TESTS 23
1. The method of symmetrical components
ro sequence
component
of the
very useful for
3 phase system of vectors V , V

is

3. The

ze

unbalanced

A
B
(a) solving unbalanced polyphase circuits
s .... of their vector sum.
(b) analysing
the performance
of 3 phase
ird
(b) one half
electrical machinery

and VC i
(a) one th
(c) two th

ird

(d) one fourth

(c) calculating
currents

resulting

from
4. In the cas

e of an unbalanced star connected

unbalanced faults
(d) all of the above
plied from an unbalanced
3 , 3
2. An unbalanced system o
3-phase voltages
m, load currents will consist o
having R YB sequence actually consists o
ve-sequence components

load

sup

wire syste
(a) positi

(a) a positive-sequence component

ve-sequence components
(b) a negative-sequence component

(b) negati
(c) zero-s

equence components
(c) a zero-sequence component
(d) only (
a) and (b).
(d) all o the above.
ANSWERS
1. (d) 2. (d) 3. (a) 4. (d)