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Understanding CBEMA and ITIC Curves for Voltage Event Analysis
This white paper explores the origins, structure, and practical applications of the CBEMA and ITIC curves, which are used to visually represent and assess voltage events affecting electronic equipment. It details the evolution from the original CBEMA curve, based on mainframe computer tolerances, to the more clearly defined ITIC curve, and explains how these tools help identify acceptable and problematic voltage conditions. Real-world examples illustrate how event data is plotted and interpreted using these curves.
Beyond definitions, the paper explains how the curves condense magnitude and duration into one view so you can quickly separate disturbances from events that warrant investigation. It outlines what to plot—RMS sags, swells, interruptions, and impulses—without overcomplicating the analysis, and shows where the curves complement, not replace, broader PQ dashboards. You’ll see common mistakes to avoid, such as treating the curves as design specifications, ignoring time axes, or mixing incompatible datasets. The discussion stays vendor-neutral and practical, focusing on how to prepare clean data, select clear thresholds, and communicate results to operations, protection, and management teams. Case snippets illustrate how curve clustering can reveal recurring patterns tied to switching, motor starts, or feeder faults, while outliers flag consequential events. The goal is a shared language that speeds triage, supports defensible reporting, and prompts deeper investigation when the evidence merits it.
Key topics include:
- CBEMA Curve
- ITIC Curve
- Uses
- Real World Example
Why utilities should care:
Visualizing voltage events with CBEMA and ITIC curves enables rapid assessment of power quality, helping to identify conditions that may cause equipment malfunction or damage. This supports proactive maintenance, improved reliability, and informed decision-making about voltage event mitigation.
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