--- title: Estimating THD with PF and DPF description: This paper explains true power factor (PF) vs. displacement power factor (DPF), with theory and real-world examples from power analyzers and loggers. image: https://library.powermonitors.com/hubfs/Blog_Images/Estimating%20THD%20with%20PF%20and%20DPF_02.png --- [![PMI_Logo_White_Slogan](https://library.powermonitors.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Branding%20-%20Logos%20and%20Designs/PMI_Logo_White_Slogan.png?width=655&height=175&name=PMI_Logo_White_Slogan.png "PMI_Logo_White_Slogan")](https://powermonitors.com) [![PMI Logo: Tools you Need. People you Trust.](https://library.powermonitors.com/hubfs/PMI_Website/logo.svg "PMI Logo: Tools you Need. People you Trust.")](http://powermonitors.com) [![PMI Logo: Tools you Need. People you Trust.](https://library.powermonitors.com/hubfs/PMI_Website/logo.svg "PMI Logo: Tools you Need. 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[Join Our Team!](https://info.powermonitors.com/join-pmi) - [Receive our Newsletter](https://info.powermonitors.com/email-subscribe-page) - [PQ Resources](https://info.powermonitors.com/power-quality-resources) - [Power Quality Solutions](https://powermonitors.com/power-quality-solutions/) - [Who We Serve](https://powermonitors.com/sales-representatives/) - [Account](https://powermonitors.com/account/) This is a search field with an auto-suggest feature attached. - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. ![PMI-Logo-Phone-Site-2023-900px](https://library.powermonitors.com/hs-fs/hubfs/PMI-Logo-Phone-Site-2023-900px.png?width=113&name=PMI-Logo-Phone-Site-2023-900px.png "PMI-Logo-Phone-Site-2023-900px") # Estimating THD with PF and DPF   |   , ## **Estimate Harmonic Distortion Using Only Power Factor Measurements** This white paper demonstrates a practical method for estimating current total harmonic distortion (THD) using only true power factor (PF) and displacement power factor (DPF) readings, even when direct harmonic measurements are unavailable. Through theoretical derivation and real-world examples, the paper quantifies the relationship between PF, DPF, and THD, showing that the ratio of PF to DPF can provide a reliable estimate of current THD in typical utility environments, particularly when voltage distortion is minimal. **Key topics include:** - Background: PF, DPF, and Harmonics - Theoretical Basis for THD Estimation - Experimental Setup and Methodology - Analysis of Results - Real-World Application Examples - Accuracy and Limitations **Why utilities should care:** Enables rapid detection of high harmonic distortion using existing power factor data, improving power quality monitoring and troubleshooting without the need for specialized harmonic analyzers or additional instrumentation. You may also enjoy...   - - - - ## Speakers ### [Alvin Rogers](https://library.powermonitors.com/estimating-thd-with-pf-and-dpf#inline-content-1speakers)[Follow me on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/apex-alvinrogers) Director of Sales Omnicorp Alvin Rogers Director of Sales Omnicorp About Alvin Rogers Alvin Rogers is a highly accomplished and sought-after speaker, renowned for their expertise and captivating stage presence. With a diverse background in \[relevant field or industry\], they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to every speaking engagement. Their dynamic and engaging style seamlessly combines powerful storytelling with actionable insights, leaving audiences inspired and equipped with practical strategies for success. Alvin has delivered impactful keynote addresses at prestigious conferences and corporate events worldwide, consistently receiving rave reviews for their ability to connect with and energize audiences. Whether addressing topics such as \[specific areas of expertise\], leadership, or innovation, Alvin is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/apex-alvinrogers) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/apex-alvinrogers) [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/apex-alvinrogers) [Twitter](https://www.twitter.com/apex-alvinrogers) ### [Lisa Smith](https://library.powermonitors.com/estimating-thd-with-pf-and-dpf#inline-content-2speakers)[Follow me on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/apex-lisasmith) Creative Director Megacorp Lisa Smith Creative Director Megacorp About Lisa Smith Lisa Smith is a highly accomplished and sought-after speaker, renowned for their expertise and captivating stage presence. With a diverse background in \[relevant field or industry\], they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to every speaking engagement. Their dynamic and engaging style seamlessly combines powerful storytelling with actionable insights, leaving audiences inspired and equipped with practical strategies for success. Lisa has delivered impactful keynote addresses at prestigious conferences and corporate events worldwide, consistently receiving rave reviews for their ability to connect with and energize audiences. Whether addressing topics such as \[specific areas of expertise\], leadership, or innovation, Lisa is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/apex-lisasmith) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/apex-lisasmith) [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/apex-lisasmith) [Twitter](https://www.twitter.com/apex-lisasmith) ### [James McGiven](https://library.powermonitors.com/estimating-thd-with-pf-and-dpf#inline-content-3speakers)[Follow me on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/apex-jamesmcgiven) President Minicorp James McGiven President Minicorp About James McGiven James McGiven is a highly accomplished and sought-after speaker, renowned for their expertise and captivating stage presence. With a diverse background in \[relevant field or industry\], they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to every speaking engagement. Their dynamic and engaging style seamlessly combines powerful storytelling with actionable insights, leaving audiences inspired and equipped with practical strategies for success. James has delivered impactful keynote addresses at prestigious conferences and corporate events worldwide, consistently receiving rave reviews for their ability to connect with and energize audiences. Whether addressing topics such as \[specific areas of expertise\], leadership, or innovation, James is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/apex-jamesmcgiven) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/apex-jamesmcgiven) [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/apex-jamesmcgiven) [Twitter](https://www.twitter.com/apex-jamesmcgiven) Power Monitors, Inc. is an industry-leading product design and manufacturing firm based in Mt. Crawford, Virginia. PMI strives to solve power quality problems by listening to our customers and working with them to design and manufacture products. Total customer satisfaction is the primary goal of all PMI staff. 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