What is Power Factor?
Power factor comes into play when motors, transformers and capacitors that are components of electrical systems, create induction or capacitance, consuming both real power (expressed in kW or kilowatts) and reactive power (expressed in kVar or kilovolt amps reactive).
Mathematically, power factor is a ratio equal to the real power (kW) divided by the apparent power (kVA) Power Factor = kW /KVA (expressed as a decimal or as a percentage).
Benefits of Improving Power Factor
- Reduction of Power Factor Penalties (not all utilities bill these charges),
- Increase Capacity in Electrical System,
- Improves Voltage on System,
- Reduction of line losses,
- When capacitors are located close to an inductive load, up to 4% savings for that load,
- Infrastructure (system) losses generally 1-4%,
BEWARE THE BLACK BOX!
Beware of large energy saving claims where capacitors are used – Claims of large savings on your losses are NOT equal to large savings on your entire energy bill. A claim of 15% savings on energy losses at a facility with 2% line losses would total at most a 0.3% savings on the entire energy bill. (e.g. 15% x 2% = 0.3%) In other words, you can only save energy that currently being wasted.
Information Required to Size and Locate Capacitors
- 12 months of electrical utility bills,
- Electrical layout of facility, including,
- Motor location and sizes,
- Transformer sizes,
- Variable Frequency / Speed Drives,
- Details on Harmonic studies or power quality problems,
Properly sizing, locating and applying power factor correction can be a confusing proposition. The Brazina Group can help solve the mystery.
We have the expertise analyze your specific situation and provide clear answers and recommendations. Contact the Brazina Group today.
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