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Sensors, Systems and Methods for Power Quality Measurements

A special issue of Sensors (ISSN 1424-8220). This special issue belongs to the section "Physical Sensors".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2026 | Viewed by 9621

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Electrical, Electronic and Information Engineering, Guglielmo Marconi Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Viale del Risorgimento 2, 40136 Bologna, Italy
Interests: management and condition maintenance of distribution networks; development, modelling, and metrological characterization of instrument transformers
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Guest Editor
Department of Engineering, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81031 Aversa, Italy
Interests: measurements; instrumentation; power quality; voltage and current instrument transformers; smart sensors for power grids; phasor measurement units (PMU)
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Power quality remains a familiar concept among researchers and system operators, though it regularly faces evolving challenges that require attention. The introduction of new electronic components or electric assets can potentially introduce issues that disrupt the power network. Each frequency range encompasses specific frequency components such as harmonics, interharmonics, and supraharmonics, necessitating tailored treatment. Hence, this Special Issue is dedicated to devices, measurement/generation systems, and methods/algorithms essential for measuring, analyzing, replicating, synthesizing, and mitigating power quality signals and phenomena. Detecting power quality phenomena demands suitable voltage and current sensors/transducers, which require periodic characterization. Consequently, new-generation systems/instruments are imperative for simulating power quality phenomena and evaluating sensor performance. Subsequently, specialized algorithms and signal processing methods are essential for isolating relevant components and conducting comprehensive analyses. Finally, well-known parameters are typically used to quantify power quality events. However, new ones are welcomed and sometime necessary to address emerging aspects.

This topic is strictly connected to Sensors because power quality can be addressed only using sensors, measurement systems, and measurement methods. Each of the previous are the main pillars of the journal. 

Dr. Alessandro Mingotti
Dr. Mario Luiso
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • sensors
  • transducers
  • power quality
  • harmonics
  • supraharmonics
  • signal processing
  • high frequency
  • measurement systems
  • signal generation
  • distubances

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 1546 KB  
Article
Iterative Amplitude Equalization for Frequency Estimation (IAE-DFT)
by Elena Serea, Codrin Donciu and Marinel Costel Temneanu
Sensors 2025, 25(23), 7344; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25237344 - 2 Dec 2025
Viewed by 589
Abstract
The accurate frequency estimation of sinusoidal signals remains a key requirement in precision instrumentation and signal analysis, particularly in applications where noise and spectral leakage affect the measurement accuracy. This paper introduces a new frequency-domain technique, called IAE-DFT (Iterative Amplitude Equalization in the [...] Read more.
The accurate frequency estimation of sinusoidal signals remains a key requirement in precision instrumentation and signal analysis, particularly in applications where noise and spectral leakage affect the measurement accuracy. This paper introduces a new frequency-domain technique, called IAE-DFT (Iterative Amplitude Equalization in the Frequency Domain), which estimates the true frequency of a sinusoidal component by iteratively adjusting two dominant spectral points until their amplitudes become balanced. Both spectral components are shifted together in the same direction according to amplitude dominance, and the step size is halved each time the amplitude relationship reverses, ensuring smooth and deterministic convergence. Experimental results demonstrate that IAE-DFT achieves superior performance at 0 dB SNR, outperforming the state-of-the-art methods, while maintaining comparable accuracy at 20 dB and 40 dB. Its precision and robustness make it a promising candidate for frequency-output biosensors and resonant sensing applications, where accurate tracking of small frequency shifts is critical. Future work will focus on optimizing the iteration control strategy, particularly the selection of the initial step size and the adaptive adjustment rate, to further enhance convergence speed and accuracy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensors, Systems and Methods for Power Quality Measurements)
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20 pages, 6854 KB  
Article
PumpSpectra: An MCSA-Based Platform for Fault Detection in Centrifugal Pump Systems
by Hamza Adaika, Zoheir Tir, Mohamed Sahraoui and Khaled Laadjal
Sensors 2025, 25(22), 6916; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25226916 - 12 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1016
Abstract
Reliable detection of faults in centrifugal pump systems is challenging in industrial environments due to harsh operating conditions, limited sensor access, and the need for fast, explainable decisions. We developed PumpSpectra, an industrial Motor Current Signature Analysis (MCSA) platform that processes uploaded stator-current [...] Read more.
Reliable detection of faults in centrifugal pump systems is challenging in industrial environments due to harsh operating conditions, limited sensor access, and the need for fast, explainable decisions. We developed PumpSpectra, an industrial Motor Current Signature Analysis (MCSA) platform that processes uploaded stator-current CSV files using FFT/STFT with transparent, rule-based models designed to identify mechanical faults including misalignment, bearing defects, and impeller anomalies; field validation demonstrated misalignment detection. In a case study at the El Oued desalination plant (Algeria; n=40 operating points), PumpSpectra achieved 91.2% diagnostic accuracy with a 95% reduction in analysis time compared to manual MCSA post-processing, and a false-positive rate of 3.8% at 0.1 Hz resolution. These results suggest that current-only, explainable analytics can support predictive maintenance programs by accelerating fault triage, improving traceability of decisions, and reducing avoided maintenance costs in pump-driven industrial assets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensors, Systems and Methods for Power Quality Measurements)
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21 pages, 6627 KB  
Article
Experimental Validation of Simple Power Quality Indices for Frequency Content Assessment up to 150 kHz
by Christian Betti, Roberto Tinarelli, Lorenzo Peretto and Alessandro Mingotti
Sensors 2025, 25(21), 6716; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25216716 - 3 Nov 2025
Viewed by 783
Abstract
The power system is evolving with the integration of new technologies, including electronic devices and renewable energy sources, which are increasingly used to support new applications, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and drive system innovation. However, this shift brings a significant drawback: a [...] Read more.
The power system is evolving with the integration of new technologies, including electronic devices and renewable energy sources, which are increasingly used to support new applications, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and drive system innovation. However, this shift brings a significant drawback: a reduction in power quality (PQ). The literature extensively discusses the impact of poor PQ on electrical assets and explores potential solutions to this new challenge. Building on this foundation, this paper introduces new PQ indices derived from existing metrics and validated on both synthetic and real signals to assess their effectiveness. The aim is to provide researchers and system operators with simple and efficient tools for the clear identification of PQ issues in monitored networks. These new indices are designed to be flexible and independent of acquisition conditions, making them suitable for a wide range of frequencies (e.g., 50 Hz–150 kHz) and applications. After an overview of the PQ landscape, the paper demonstrates the use of these indices on various voltage waveforms, including a case study from a measurement campaign. The promising results indicate that, when combined with existing indices, these new metrics can form a strong foundation for a deeper understanding and more accurate classification of PQ issues in power networks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensors, Systems and Methods for Power Quality Measurements)
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18 pages, 5044 KB  
Article
Measurement System and Testing Procedure for Characterization of the Conversion Accuracy of Voltage-to-Voltage and Voltage-to-Current Integrating Circuits for Rogowski Coils
by Michal Kaczmarek
Sensors 2025, 25(20), 6357; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25206357 - 14 Oct 2025
Viewed by 959
Abstract
Rogowski coils are increasingly being used in electricity metering systems. However, owing to their operating principle, they require an additional active integrating circuit to produce an output voltage or current that is directly proportional to the input current. A signal conditioner has the [...] Read more.
Rogowski coils are increasingly being used in electricity metering systems. However, owing to their operating principle, they require an additional active integrating circuit to produce an output voltage or current that is directly proportional to the input current. A signal conditioner has the most significant impact on the overall conversion accuracy of the combined transducer. In this paper, a new measurement system and testing procedure utilizing a digital power meter and arbitrary waveform generator are proposed. This approach enables the characterization of the conversion accuracy of both types of active integrators: voltage-to-voltage and voltage-to-current converters. The conversion error for distorted input voltage harmonics and additional phase shift across a range of frequencies are determined. Instead of using the actual signal from the Rogowski coil during testing —which would be challenging owing to the required high RMS value of the distorted current for its input and difficulties in accurately measuring the RMS values of harmonics and their phase angles in relation to the output voltage or current of the tested converter—an arbitrary waveform generator is used. The input voltage to the active integrating circuit replicates the output voltage of the Rogowski coil: as the harmonic order increases, its RMS voltage rises proportionally. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensors, Systems and Methods for Power Quality Measurements)
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30 pages, 4193 KB  
Article
A Piecewise Linearization Based Method for Crossed Frequency Admittance Matrix Model Calculation of Harmonic Sources
by Youhang Yang, Shaorong Wang, Mingming Shi and Xian Zheng
Sensors 2025, 25(2), 582; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25020582 - 20 Jan 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1497
Abstract
The integration of large-scale power electronic equipment has intensified harmonic issues in power systems. Accurate harmonic models are fundamental for evaluating and mitigating harmonic problems, but existing models still exhibit deficiencies in harmonic mechanism, model complexity and accuracy. This work proposes a calculation [...] Read more.
The integration of large-scale power electronic equipment has intensified harmonic issues in power systems. Accurate harmonic models are fundamental for evaluating and mitigating harmonic problems, but existing models still exhibit deficiencies in harmonic mechanism, model complexity and accuracy. This work proposes a calculation method of crossed frequency admittance matrix (CFAM) analytical model based on piecewise linearization, aiming to achieve accurate modeling of phase-controlled power electronic harmonic sources. Firstly, the traditional CFAM model construction methods are introduced, and the shortcomings in harmonic modeling are discussed. Subsequently, the parameter-solving process of the CFAM analytical model based on piecewise linearization is proposed. This method improves the accuracy of harmonic modeling and simplifies the construction process of the analytical model. Furthermore, taking single-phase and three-phase bridge rectifiers as examples, CFAM analytical models under intermittent and continuous load current conditions are established, respectively, and the unified harmonic models for both conditions are summarized. Finally, case studies of rectifier harmonic sources under varying circuit control parameters and supply voltage distortions are conducted through Matlab/Simulink and experiments. The results demonstrate that the proposed method provides higher accuracy and more stable performance for harmonic current estimation compared with the traditional CFAM model and constant current source model. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensors, Systems and Methods for Power Quality Measurements)
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Review

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23 pages, 604 KB  
Review
A Comprehensive Review on Stability Analysis of Hybrid Energy System
by Namita Kumari, Binh Tran, Ankush Sharma and Damminda Alahakoon
Sensors 2025, 25(10), 2974; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25102974 - 8 May 2025
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3447
Abstract
Hybrid Energy Systems (HES) are pivotal in modern power systems. They incorporate conventional and renewable energy sources, energy storage, and main grids to deliver reliable and sustainable power. To ensure the smooth functioning of such systems, stability analysis is essential, particularly in dynamic [...] Read more.
Hybrid Energy Systems (HES) are pivotal in modern power systems. They incorporate conventional and renewable energy sources, energy storage, and main grids to deliver reliable and sustainable power. To ensure the smooth functioning of such systems, stability analysis is essential, particularly in dynamic and unpredictable situations. Despite tremendous progress, the stability analysis of HES is still complex due to challenges such as nonlinearity, system complexity, and uncertainty in renewable energy generation. A thorough understanding of stability analysis for HES is crucial to ensure the reliable and efficient design of these complex power systems. Particularly in the current data-intensive era, vast volumes of data are being collected through advanced sensors and communication technologies. However, no thorough and organised discussion of every facet of HES stability analysis is available in the literature. This paper aims to review various types and techniques for analysing frequency, transient, small-signal, and converter-driven stability, and to assess the importance and challenges of such analyses for HES. By emphasising the need for innovative approaches for stability enhancement, the paper also discusses the importance of continued research in optimising the operation and reliability of hybrid energy systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensors, Systems and Methods for Power Quality Measurements)
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