Agricultural operations are more complex and automated than ever before, creating incredible efficiencies for growing, livestock care and production. Nowhere are these efficiencies more noticeable than in agricultural watering systems. Utilizing groundwater to irrigate fields and water livestock are critical priorities for growers, and pumping systems must be able to manage large volumes of water quickly and efficiently to meet the challenge. In best optimizing these water systems, variable frequency drives (VFDs) regulate pressure, performance and system control while prolonging equipment life
Yet, without a properly designed VFD, electrical issues and interference can arise. Known as harmonic distortion, this interference can lead to issues with other electrical equipment and power sources – causing overheating, reduced equipment life, nuisance tripping and decreased system efficiency. Harmonic distortion can also result in fines or power termination from local utility companies. As a result, it’s more important than ever for agricultural operations to use VFDs with harmonic filters to specifically meet IEEE 519 standards.
What does it mean to meet IEEE 519 standards?
Meeting the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 519 standard means that a facility’s electrical equipment does not produce enough harmonic or voltage distortion to affect the power grid. Harmonic distortion happens when a piece of equipment draws electrical currents in short, uneven bursts causing other nearby electronics to malfunction. The IEEE 519 standard, which was most recently updated in 2022, helps assure that harmonic currents don’t reach the point of common coupling (PCC) – the point where a customer connects to the utility system. This helps municipalities prevent disruptions in power grids and assures agribusinesses avoid costly penalties or service disruptions from rural utility providers.
What is total harmonic distortion and how does it differ from harmonic distortion?
Measuring distortion at the PCC provides insights into a facility’s total harmonic distortion (THD), including seemingly less significant electronic contributors. Early models of VFDs were often major contributors to this. Today, agricultural operations should look for VFDs that offer advanced harmonic filters. Without these filters for VFDs, sensitive systems like milking stations and climate-controlled coolers can be subjected to non-linear loads and currents that cause them to overheat.
How does meeting IEEE 519 standards benefit agricultural operations?
Rural power grids can sometimes have weak or unreliable distribution lines, leading to power quality issues. When harmonic distortion from one or more rural businesses is compiled, the unreliability multiplies. Utilizing equipment that is IEEE 519 compliant helps agricultural operations benefit from not only more reliable power delivery but also overall better outcomes. By reducing harmonic distortion from electronics, ag businesses:
What to look for in an IEEE 519 VFD solution
VFDs can be used across a wide range of agricultural pumping applications to control submersible pumping systems and large centrifugal surface pumps. It’s important to look for a VFD that includes a built-in intelligent passive harmonic filter specifically designed to mitigate the impact of harmonic distortion and prevent premature equipment failure. These VFDs will be labeled as “IEEE 519 Compliant” or “Supports Grid Compliance.”
Get expert advice from Franklin Electric
Franklin Electric's Cerus® X-Drive Low Harmonic Pump Panels are engineered to optimize demanding water systems by delivering reliable power while mitigating input distortion. Designed and thoroughly tested to meet IEEE 519 standards, these panels integrate the intuitive installation of Cerus X-Drive's VFDs with intelligent harmonic mitigation. The application-specific firmware and compatibility with the FE Connect® mobile app ensure smooth startup, efficient operation, and long-term system health. Cerus X-Drive Pump Panels are packaged in a NEMA 3R-rated enclosure to withstand harsh outdoor environments and are assembled and shipped from our UL 508A-certified Oregon facility to ensure top-tier quality and fast fulfillment. Models are available for up to 600 hp for centrifugal applications and 500 hp for submersible applications with single-phase or three-phase input.
Learn more about the Cerus X-Drive Low Harmonic Pump Panel, including ordering information: Cerus X-Drive Low Harmonic Panels | Franklin Water
Franklin Electric is a global leader in the production and marketing of systems and components for the movement of water and energy. Recognized as a technical leader in its products and services, Franklin Electric serves customers worldwide in residential, commercial, agricultural, industrial, municipal, and fueling applications. Franklin Electric is proud to be recognized in Newsweek’s lists of America’s Most Responsible Companies 2024, Most Trustworthy Companies 2024, and Greenest Companies 2025; Best Places to Work in Indiana 2024; and America’s Climate Leaders 2024 by USA Today.