Power Factor
Power Factor
Power Factor
INTRODUCTION or Definition:
The power factor of an AC electric power system is defined as the ratio of the real power that is working power flowing to the load to the apparent power that is total power consumed by the circuit, and is a dimensionless number between 0 and 1. Basically power factor is a measurement of how effectively electrical power is being used. The higher the power factor, the more effectively electrical power is being used and vice versa. A distribution systems operating power that is apparent power is composed of two parts: 1. Real Power or (working power), measured in watts. 2. Reactive or (non working power), measured in reactive volt amperes. The REAL power performs the useful work where as the REACTIVE power does not as its only function is to develop magnetic fields required by inductive devices.
In an electric power system, a load with a low power factor draws more current than a load with a high power factor for the same amount of useful power transferred. The higher currents increase the energy lost in the distribution system, and require larger wires and other equipment.
Linear loads with low power factor (such as induction motors) can be corrected with a passive network of capacitors or inductors. Non-linear loads, such as rectifiers, distort the current drawn from the system. In such cases, active or passive power factor correction may be used to counteract the distortion and raise the power factor.
controlled by a regulator that measures power factor in an electrical network. To be able to measure power factor, the regulator uses a current transformer to measure the current in one phase. Depending on the load and power factor of the network, the power factor controller will switch the necessary blocks of capacitors in steps to make sure the power factor stays above a selected value (usually demanded by the energy supplier), say 0.9.
4. Benefits:
Power factor correction may be applied by an electrical power transmission utility to improve the stability and efficiency of the transmission network. Correction equipment may be installed by individual electrical customers to reduce the costs charged to them by their electricity supplier. A high power factor is generally desirable in a transmission system to reduce transmission losses and improve voltage regulation at the load. Many industrial and commercial applications can benefit from improving power factor levels. These include: manufacturers, hospitals, shopping malls, office building & institutions, pulp & paper mills, saw mills, textile mills, printing plants, Dlastic manufacturers. etc.
Not only will Power Factor Correction Capacitors save money, but they will also:
Reduce heat loss of transformers and distribution equipment Prolong the life of distribution equipment Stabilizes voltage levels Increase your system's capacity, etc.