Vol. 337 No. 4 (2026)
DOI https://doi.org/10.18799/24131830/2026/4/5145
Intelligent phase-specific reactive power compensation for an electric arc furnace using a genetic algorithm
Relevance. The paper addresses the problem of optimizing the thyristor firing angles in a phase-based compensation system of an electric arc furnace using a genetic algorithm. The proposed approach provides phase-by-phase control of reactive power flows and contributes to the reduction of voltage asymmetry levels. The expanding application of electric arc furnaces imposes increased requirements on power quality, while conventional compensation methods are insufficiently effective under rapidly varying load conditions. The use of a genetic algorithm as a global optimization tool enables the implementation of adaptive compensation of voltage asymmetry under dynamic operating conditions. Aim. Development and justification of a method for optimal control of thyristor firing phase angles in a voltage asymmetry compensation system of an electric arc furnace, aimed at improving power supply quality, energy efficiency, and the stability of the technological process. Methods. Genetic algorithm to determine the optimal values of thyristor firing phase angles in the phase-based compensation system. The optimization criteria include minimization of the voltage asymmetry factor and reduction of reactive power losses, enabling adaptive control under variable load conditions. Results. The authors have developed a method for optimal control of thyristor firing angles within the range of 0–90° based on a genetic algorithm. The application of the proposed solution made it possible to reduce the voltage asymmetry factor to 2–4%, decrease specific energy consumption, and improve the energy efficiency of electric arc furnace operation. The conducted studies confirmed the stability of the algorithm under varying load conditions and the possibility of its application in other reactive power compensation devices.
For citation: Rakhmonov I.U., Kholikhmatov B.B., Ushakov V.Ya., Pakhratdinov A.J. Intelligent phase-specific reactive power compensation for an electric arc furnace using a genetic algorithm. Bulletin of the Tomsk Polytechnic University. Geo Assets Engineering, 2026, vol. 337, no. 4, pp. 139-151.
Keywords:
electric arc furnace, voltage asymmetry, reactive power compensation, thyristor control, phase-based compensation, genetic algorithm, parameter optimization, power quality
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