Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Industry: Marine / Offshore Drilling
Partner: Gulf Tech Automation
Installation dates: Phase 1 - October 2024, Phase 2 planned FY 2026
Background
A leading offshore operator runs drilling rigs that rely on highly specialized equipment to ensure uptime and safety. The platform is powered by a combination of main diesel engines and emergency generators, while also supporting significant auxiliary loads such as high-pressure mud pumps, shale shakers, top drive units, cranes, and accommodation facilities.
To address ongoing electrical disturbances and equipment reliability issues, Comsys’ partner Gulf Tech Automation was brought in to implement an offshore power quality solution using harmonic mitigation.
Challenge
The offshore platform was experiencing frequent issues with electrical reliability, including premature failures of key components. Detailed measurements carried out by Gulf Tech Automation revealed extremely high levels of THDv, reaching around 15%, primarily due to the DC drives in operation.
These conditions placed excessive stress on the electrical infrastructure, affecting both performance, equipment lifespan, and failure of loads. Conventional CT controls are not effective in such systems where high voltage distortion and resonance conditions prevail. A robust and scalable harmonic mitigation solution was required to stabilize the system, reduce THDv on the offshore rig, and support continuous and reliable operation.
Solution
Following detailed measurements and analysis, Gulf Tech Automation installed a Comsys ADF P300/270A active harmonic filter as part of the project’s first phase.
• Phase 1 (2024/2025): 1 x ADF P300/270A installed and commissioned
• Phase 2 (planned for FY 2026): 2 additional ADF P300/270A units to be installed
The ADF was commissioned using impedance control, allowing it to operate without the need for external current transformers (CTs). Impedance control is the most advanced control ADF offers which actively mitigates the resonance/voltage harmonics.
Running as a stand-alone solution, the installed ADF P300 has already delivered significant improvements in power quality, reducing voltage harmonic distortion. Comsys was selected for its technical expertise and proven track record in marine harmonic filtering and industrial power quality, particularly in challenging offshore applications.
Result
Since the ADF P300/270A was commissioned in October 2024, the system has delivered measurable improvements in power quality and system reliability. In one typical load scenario on the rig, THDv was reduced from 15% to 8.7%.
The ADF is successfully mitigating harmonic distortion, protecting sensitive equipment, and helping to maintain stable operation of the platform’s electrical system. Encouraged by the results, the customer is planning a second phase of the project in FY 2026 to expand the solution.