Power Factor Correction
What is Power Factor?
- The measure of a electrical systems efficiency is known as power factor
- Inductive loads are low on efficiency
- AC Motors & Transformers depend on magnetism as a source for operation
- Magnetic forces are only required periodically
- Due to the nature of the AC system the field collapses and the current flows back to the power station
- Supply authorities charge for the use of Apparent Power (Maximum Demand – kVA)
- Supply authorities also penalize consumers for poor efficiency (kVAr Penalty)
Power Factor illustrated
Disadvantages of low Power Factor
- Increased energy costs
- Overloaded transformers
- Overloaded distribution lines
- Resulting in voltage drops and needless wear and tear on electrical equipment
- Reduced load handling capability of the plants electrical system
Advantages of Power Factor
- Decreased monthly energy costs
- Efficient electrical system
- Reduced loading on transformers
- Reduced loading on distribution lines
- Reduced voltage drops
- Reduced wear and tear on electrical equipment
- Increased load handling capability of the plants electricalsystem
