Efficiency and costs reduction with Power Factor Correction (PFC)
Understanding Power Factor Correction (PFC)
Power Factor Correction (PFC) is a technique used to improve the efficiency of electrical systems by reducing reactive power in the network. To understand this better, we need to explore the concept of reactive power.
Electricity consists of two key components:
- Active Power (kW): The power used to perform actual work, such as running motors or lighting homes.
- Reactive Power (kVAR): The power that supports the magnetic fields required for many devices, such as motors and transformers, to function.
While reactive power doesn’t perform any "useful work," it is essential for the operation of inductive devices like electric motors and transformers. However, it increases the current flowing through the system, leading to higher energy losses, increased strain on equipment, and elevated costs.
How Reactive Power Affects Costs
When reactive power is excessive, it results in:
- Higher energy bills: Utilities often charge penalties for poor power factor.
- Increased transmission losses: Reactive power increases the current, leading to higher losses in transmission and distribution systems.
- Equipment wear and tear: Overloaded cables and transformers experience faster degradation.
To illustrate, think of a beer analogy: the beer (active power) is the drink you want, while the foam (reactive power) is necessary to pour the beer but adds no value to your experience. A system with excessive foam means you pay for less beer and more air! PFC helps you reduce the foam so you get more beer for your money.
The Role of Power Factor Correction
PFC involves the installation of capacitors or capacitor banks to balance reactive power in the system. These capacitors work as compensators by providing the required reactive power locally, reducing the burden on the supply network.
When reactive power is corrected:
- Energy efficiency improves: Lower current flow means reduced energy losses.
- Costs decrease: Eliminates penalties for poor power factor and lowers energy usage.
- System reliability increases: Equipment operates under optimal conditions, reducing wear and tear.
- Environment benefits: Reduced energy losses mean lower carbon emissions.
Iskra’s Power Factor Correction Solutions
At Iskra, we offer a complete system for reactive power compensation, designed to meet the demands of modern electrical networks.
Our solutions include:
Power Factor Controllers to monitor and manage reactive power levels dynamically.
Contactors for precise switching of capacitor banks.
Capacitor Banks tailored to your system's needs, ensuring reliable compensation.
Our system adjusts in real-time based on the load requirements, ensuring an optimal power factor and significant energy savings. With extensive experience, we provide fully integrated solutions that minimize reactive power’s impact, ensuring you pay only for the energy you use.
Real-Life Applications
Check-out our study cases and explore detailed information of the successfully finished projects.
Contact Us
Got questions about Power Factor Correction or want to explore how our solutions can optimize your energy efficiency? Our team of experts is here to help!
📩 Email us at: experts@iskra.eu
Let's discuss your needs and create a customized solution for your business.
