Why your installation needs a periodic 'MOT'

Perhaps you drive a car on a business basis. You then probably think it is the most normal thing in the world that it goes to the garage periodically for an MOT and a major service. You have the oil changed, the brakes checked and the software updated. Why do you do that? Because you don't want to break down along the motorway AND because you want to preserve the residual value of the car.

The exact same principle applies to your electrical installation. Yet we often see organisations investing tens of thousands of euros in high-quality Power Quality solutions, only to not look after them for years. This is an underestimated business risk. After all, the impact of downtime in your production process is many times greater than that of a stationary car.

Power quality is not static

A common misconception is that an electrical installation is static. "It works, right?" is a dangerous assumption. The reality is more complex. Power quality is dynamic and constantly changing:

  1. Aging components: Capacitors dry out, fans wear out and contacts can oxidise.
  2. Load changes: The addition of new machines, variable speed drives, charging poles or LED lighting changes the characteristics of your power consumption and harmonic pollution.
  3. Grid contamination from outside: The quality of the voltage supplied by your grid operator also fluctuates.
Service Engineers

An Active Harmonic Filter or capacitor bank that was perfectly tuned five years ago may now function sub-optimally, resonate or even become overloaded due to these changes. Without intervention, inefficiencies creep into your system that undermine operational reliability. With our periodic inspections - your 'MOT' - we precisely map the technical state of your filters and measurement systems. We ensure that you stay compliant, reduce risks and get the maximum life out of your investment.

Specialist maintenance for all your systems

HyTEPS is a niche specialist. We focus entirely on optimising voltage and power quality. Our engineers know the ins and outs of the hardware needed for this. We offer in-depth service and maintenance on the following product groups:

Active Harmonic Filters

These advanced systems actively filter contamination(harmonics) from your voltage. They are complex devices packed with power electronics (IGBTs) and control software.

Active Harmonic Filter
  1. Risk without maintenance: Contaminated air filters lead to poor cooling, causing IGBT modules to overheat and shut down (derating) or fail. Outdated firmware can lead to inefficient filtering or compatibility issues.
  2. Our approach: Cleaning, measuring through power modules, firmware updates and functional load testing.

Capacitor banks (Cos Phi compensation)

Essential for reducing reactive current and relieving your installation.

  1. Risk without maintenance: Capacitors lose capacity over time. As capacity decreases, the bank's tuning frequency shifts. This can lead to life-threatening resonance, overloading the bank and transformer. 'Sticky' contactors are also a common cause of fire.
  2. Our approach: Capacity measurement per stage, control of contactors and fuses, thermographic inspection of connections.
Capacitor bank

What does a preventive Power Quality inspection entail?

Preventive maintenance is at the heart of sustainable plant management. Our approach goes far beyond just "blowing off the dust". Our specialists carry out a thorough, structured inspection to validate the 'health' of your equipment. During a maintenance check-up, we go through a set protocol:

1. Visual and Thermal Inspection
We check the physical condition of all components. With thermography (thermal imaging camera), we detect hotspots that indicate loose connections or overloading. We check the cabling for insulation damage and check whether all mechanical fixings are still tightened to the correct torque.

2. Cleaning and Cooling
Contamination is the number one cause of death for power electronics. Dust and dirt isolate components, preventing heat from escaping. We clean air ducts, fans and heat sinks and preventively replace filter mats. We test the operation of fans and temperature sensors to ensure optimal cooling.

3. Software and Firmware Management
Manufacturers continuously develop improvements. New firmware provides more efficient control algorithms, faster response times and patches for cybersecurity. We install the latest stable versions and verify operation. This keeps your system modern, even years after purchase.

4. Measuring through Critical Components
Measuring is knowing. In capacitor banks, we measure the actual residual capacity (µF) of each capacitor. Does it deviate more than 5-10% from the specification? Then we recommend replacement to avoid resonance. We also check the operation of discharge resistors for safety.

5. Reading out Log files and Event history
The internal memories of Active Harmonic Filters and Power Quality meters contain a wealth of information. We analyse the 'Event Logs' over the past period. Have there been any temperature warnings? Have voltage dips been recorded? This gives us insight into incidents that you may not have noticed yourself, but which indicate latent problems.

6. Functional testing and reporting
We conclude with a full function test. Does the filter still reduce harmonics according to the standard? Does the capacitor bank switch on correctly? You receive a comprehensive service report from us with all measured values, findings and clear advice in understandable language. This document is also valuable for your insurance company and Scope 10 inspector.

Maintenance in the context of NEN 3140 and Safety

In addition to operational reliability, safety plays a crucial role. As the person responsible for the installation, you have a legal duty of care to ensure a safe electrical installation (Working Conditions Act). Periodic maintenance by HyTEPS contributes directly to this obligation.

Our inspections perfectly match the requirements of NEN 3140 (Operation of electrical installations) and NEN 3840 (high voltage). Although we do not perform SCIOS Scope 8 or 10 inspections, our specialist maintenance of Power Quality equipment is an indispensable addition. A general inspector often takes a global look at the installation, while our engineers dive deep into the specific technology of filters and compensation systems. A well-maintained filter significantly reduces the risk of arcing and fire hazard, lowering your liability risk.

Installation maintenance

Corrective maintenance: acting quickly in the event of faults

Despite good management, a calamity can always occur. External factors such as lightning strikes, extreme voltage dips or severe contamination from the grid can lead to acute damage. If your Active Harmonic Filter fails, you lose your protection. Harmonic pollution is then given free rein, which can lead to failure of other sensitive equipment in your business.

Service team

In such a situation, speed is of the essence. HyTEPS' engineers are trained in complex troubleshooting. We come on site to diagnose the problem.

  • Diagnosis: Is it a hardware fault? A software fault? Or is the cause external? We not only analyse the faulty device, but look at its interaction with the rest of the installation to prevent recurrence.
  • Repair: We repair the fault, replace modular components (such as IGBT modules, control boards or DC buses) if necessary, and recommission the system.
  • Root Cause Analysis: We are not satisfied with symptom management. We want to know why things went wrong so that we can suggest structural improvements.

Whether you opt for a one-off 'second opinion' for an unexplained failure, or a periodic subscription for continuous monitoring: our expertise guarantees that you not only collect data, but actually benefit from it.

Secure your continuity with a Service Agreement

Want peace of mind that your Power Quality equipment is always in top condition, without you having to worry about it yourself? With a service agreement from HyTEPS, we guarantee the management of your installation. We take responsibility for the planning and timely execution of inspections.

A service contract offers you concrete advantages over ad hoc maintenance:

  1. Breakdown priority: Contract customers are given priority in our planning for emergencies. You are at the front of the queue.
  2. Cost control: You know in advance where you stand in terms of operating costs (OPEX). No unexpected high bills for overdue maintenance.
  3. Life extension: Through consistent maintenance, we postpone replacement of costly equipment for as long as possible. Your total cost of ownership decreases.
  4. File building: You build up a history of your installation. This is essential evidence in the event of damage claims or insurance issues.
Service Engineers

We offer various levels of service, from basic annual inspections to comprehensive 'All-in' contracts including response-time guarantees and spare parts in stock. Speak to our engineers to determine which level suits the criticality of your business process.

Why choose HyTEPS Service & Maintenance?

HyTEPS is not a general installer, but a specialised knowledge partner. Our engineers are specifically trained in Power Quality and power electronics. We maintain close ties with the R&D departments of our manufacturers. This gives us in-depth knowledge and special software tools often lacking in the market. We work daily in the world's most demanding environments:

  • Data centres: where 24/7 uptime is sacred.
  • Maritime & Offshore: Where assistance is remote and reliability is vital.
  • Hospitals: Where medical equipment must not fail due to voltage problems.
  • Industry: Where every minute of downtime costs thousands of euros.

Latest projects

From energy risk to expansion: 550A reduction in current draw

Nijsen was struggling with high costs and lack of capacity due to reactive power. Our active capacitor banks eliminated the penalties and immediately created 550 amps of extra space on the transformers.

Proactive Power Quality: eliminating risks at 5MW installation

To prevent downtime at the new 5MW plant, HyTEPS preventively implemented two Active Harmonic Filters. This assures ARN Recycling of a stable energy network and maximum business continuity.

1.75MW less grid load and cost reduction for SNB

Despite own generation, SNB was struggling with high costs due to reactive power. HyTEPS optimised the installation with capacitor banks. The result: 1.75MW less grid load and a payback time within one year.

Real-time Power Quality insight secures production of 290,000 tonnes of zinc

By tackling unexplained outages with high-end monitoring, HyTEPS ensured continuity at Nyrstar. Real-time insight into Power Quality now prevents unnecessary downtime.

Continuity in passenger flows through EMC control

Harmonic contamination threatened the continuity of Schiphol's security lanes. HyTEPS analysed the risks and installed seven active filters to restore grid quality. The result is a stable installation and guaranteed operational security for millions of passengers.

Maximising installation capacity and eliminating reactive power at Xella

HyTEPS restored installation capacity at Xella by targeting reactive power with capacitor banks. The solution offers Xella an immediate cost reduction and sustainable security in every kilowatt.

Maximum installation capacity for Naber Plastics through Cos Phi Improvement

HyTEPS increased installation capacity at Naber Plastics by targeting reactive power. With a 400kVAr capacitor bank, our engineers immediately created space for additional machinery. This results in optimum power utilisation and maximum operational reliability.

No room for error: how Zentrys guarantees 24/7 continuity

HyTEPS ensures the operational reliability of Zentrys through targeted arc scanning and selectivity testing. With digital simulations, we eliminate invisible risks for maximum continuity and a safe working environment.

Maximum operational reliability for offshore giant: ground loops eliminated

HyTEPS eliminated years of cable insulation damage on the Bumblebee due to a hidden ground loop in the complex offshore installation through a focused Power Quality. This proactive approach restores operational continuity and provides Allseas with the maximum reliability their operation requires.

Production downtime eliminated: Sappi Maastricht achieves full operational reliability

Sappi Maastricht eliminated costly production downtime by targeting harmful harmonics with a Power Quality diagnosis and active filtering. This investment fully restored operational reliability and paid for itself within a year due to the guaranteed continuity.

Spotlight on operational reliability: De Kuip ready for a fault-free LED future

In an environment where tens of thousands of spectators count on continuity, downtime is not an option. HyTEPS secures Power Quality at Stadion Feijenoord, so that the transition to LED lighting leads directly to guaranteed performance without invisible risks.

500 amps of extra power and elimination of blind current penalties at Mauser

Through targeted measurements and active filtering, HyTEPS eliminated grid contamination and blind current penalties at Mauser Packaging Solutions . This immediately provided 500 amps of extra capacity, allowing production to scale up safely without investing in a heavier grid connection .

No harmonic pollution at KLM: HyTEPS optimises Power Quality at Schiphol Airport

HyTEPS integrated 4 MW of solar panels at KLM Schiphol without risk. By eliminating grid pollution with Active Harmonic Filters, we ensure maximum operational reliability and a stable installation in Hangar 14.

Efficiency gains through precision: VDL Parree eliminates blind power penalties

By deploying a 300 kVA capacitor bank, HyTEPS stopped monthly reactive power penalties at VDL Parree. This intervention increased efficiency and created additional capacity immediately, so the investment paid for itself within a year.

Direct cost savings and extra capacity for Van Munster Recyclers

Van Munster Recyclers eliminated the reactive power penalty and immediately created additional capacity with a HyTEPS capacitor bank. Thanks to the immediate cost savings, this solution paid for itself within one year.

Sustainability and fault reduction at Clondalkin Flexible Packaging

HyTEPS ensures continuity at Clondalkin with a system that combines energy insight with automatic HACCP recording. This eliminates risky manual checks and maximises operational reliability.

Maximum continuity in care: 100% focus on the electrical installation

Hospital Rivierenland ensures safe care by working with HyTEPS to eliminate harmonic contamination in the installation. The deployment of Active Harmonic Filters now guarantees optimum Power Quality and maximum operational reliability.

Optimal operational reliability through data-driven energy monitoring

HyTEPS implemented an advanced monitoring system that gives CurTec real-time grip on energy consumption and Power Quality. This data-driven solution prevents blind power penalties and ensures a stable, climate-neutral future.

100% Continuity for carriageway lighting Schiphol through Power Quality diagnostics

HyTEPS identified the risks to the taxiway lighting at Schiphol Airport through accurate measurements. With the subsequent solution, the continuity and safety of this critical installation is fully guaranteed.

Safe innovation: Arc calculation for the world's fastest charging battery

Our engineers performed specialist arc simulations to ensure the safety of InMotion's unique battery pack. Thanks to this concrete analysis, the team is now working on ultra-fast charging technology with the right protective equipment and complete certainty.

Rijkswaterstaat ensures tunnel safety with 40% spare capacity

HyTEPS eliminates harmonic pollution in the Ruhr Tunnel by implementing four active filters. Thanks to 40% spare capacity, technical safety for Rijkswaterstaat is guaranteed under all circumstances.

Maximum operational reliability for Amphia: 100% grip on Power Quality

Our engineers analysed Power Quality with continuous waveform recording to ensure maximum safety. Thanks to continuous monitoring, all risks are now under control and care continuity is guaranteed.

Securing Dutch security of supply: Power Quality monitoring at scale

HyTEPS continuously analyses and validates Power Quality data from the entire Dutch power grid. Our customised software transforms this complex data stream into reliable control information for optimal security of supply.

Securing communication standards in EMI due to video installations at Schiphol Airport

HyTEPS eliminated electromagnetic interference in the Schiphol T2000 network after an integral EMC study. This approach restored system integrity and guaranteed uninterrupted communication for emergency services.

NYRSTAR eliminates harmonic contamination and prevents unplanned downtime

HyTEPS eliminated high-risk harmonic contamination at Nyrstar. Our specialist measurements provided an exact diagnosis and a guaranteed stable production environment.

Mannesmann secures security of supply with stable Power Quality

HyTEPS solved the failure of air compressors at Mannesmann by immediately eliminating harmful harmonic contamination. With active filtering and continuous monitoring, precision tube production is now fully stabilised.

75% Faster shutdown times for safe battery storage at iwell

For iwell's battery system, HyTEPS conducted an Arc Flash Compliance study to ensure electrical safety. The new settings reduced shutdown times by 75%, reducing dangerous arc flash energy to safe levels.

Frequently asked questions about service and maintenance

Answer:

We recommend inspection and maintenance at least once a year. In environments with a high dust load, high ambient temperatures or extremely intensive use, a higher frequency (e.g. semi-annually) may be necessary to prevent downtime.

Answer:

Basic exterior cleaning and display reading is possible. However, internal inspection requires specialised knowledge of power electronics and strict safety procedures. Opening the cabinets poses risks due to dangerous residual voltage on the DC buses and capacitors. We strongly recommend leaving this to certified specialists.

Answer:

Preventive maintenance is planned and aimed at preventing problems (similar to the 'MOT' and turn for your car). Corrective maintenance takes place after a malfunction or failure has occurred and is aimed at repair and restoration (the 'breakdown service'). Preventive maintenance is always cheaper than corrective maintenance.

Answer:

a, in many cases they do. We can service third-party systems, provided we have access to the necessary software, passwords and technical documentation. Please contact our service department to discuss options for your specific equipment.

Answer:

No, a contract is not mandatory, but highly recommended. Without demonstrable maintenance, the manufacturer's warranty often expires over time. Moreover, the risk of malfunctions increases exponentially as the system ages.

Answer:

Costs depend on the type of system, power, number of units and location of your business. We will be happy to provide a customised quotation for your specific situation without obligation.

Answer:

"Don't fix what isn't broken" doesn't apply here. Firmware updates often include essential improvements in control algorithms, security and efficiency. They can also fix bugs that only occur under specific circumstances. It keeps your system stable and future-proof.

Answer:

Yes, we read the logs and do snapshots to see if the filter is still functioning correctly and meeting its targets. However, for a comprehensive analysis of the entire installation (e.g. in case of vague complaints elsewhere in the premises), we recommend a specific Power Quality Analysis.

Answer:

Fans are wear parts. When they fail or foul, cooling capacity decreases. The sensitive electronics become too hot, leading to a significantly shorter lifespan or immediate shutdown by the internal thermal protection.

Answer:

For contract customers with critical processes, we can make specific SLA agreements on response times and availability outside office hours. Standard failures are handled with high priority within office hours.

Schedule your 'MOT' today

Don't wait until the warning light comes on or your process shuts down. Secure the continuity of your operations and prolong the life of your valuable installation. Our engineers are ready to keep your Power Quality at top level.

HyTEPS

Beemdstraat 3

5653 MA Eindhoven