Fourier analysis

Fourier analysis is a mathematical method for decomposing arbitrary periodic signals into a sum of sine and cosine functions of different frequencies.

Every periodic signal, even if it is distorted or not sinusoidal, can be represented as a superposition of fundamental waves (e.g., 50 Hz in the power grid) and harmonics (integer multiples of the fundamental frequency).

The method was developed by French mathematician Jean-Baptiste Joseph Fourier, who published it in 1822 in his work “Théorie analytique de la chaleur.”

In electrical engineering, Fourier analysis is used to decompose distorted voltage and current waveforms into their harmonic components. This allows harmonics to be identified, quantified, and specifically compensated for.