Power factor correction (PFC) is a technique that improves the efficiency of an electrical system by adding capacitors to offset the reactive power generated by inductive loads (e.g., motors, transformers). This reduces current draw, minimizes energy losses, and lowers utility bills. This tool calculates the required capacitor capacity (in kVAR) to raise the power factor from its current value to a desired level.
Commonly used in industrial plants, commercial buildings, data centers, and other facilities with significant inductive loads.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Voltage | Operating voltage of the system. • Single-phase: Enter **Phase-Neutral voltage** • Two-phase / Three-phase: Enter **Phase-Phase voltage** |
| Frequency | Number of cycles per second, unit: Hertz (Hz). Typically 50 Hz or 60 Hz |
| Load | Active power consumed by the load, unit: kilowatts (kW) |
| Current Power Factor | Existing power factor value between 0 and 1. For example, 0.7 indicates low efficiency |
| Desired Power Factor | Target power factor after correction. Must be higher than the initial value. Recommended: ≥ 0.95 |
| Capacitor Voltage | Rated voltage of the capacitor bank. Must match system voltage (e.e., 400V, 415V) |
| Connection Type | Configuration of the capacitor bank: • Star (Y): Suitable for high-voltage or balanced three-phase systems • Delta (Δ): Common for low-voltage or high-current applications |
The required reactive power compensation (Qc) is calculated using:
Where:
- Q_c: Required capacitor capacity (kVAR)
- P: Load active power (kW)
- φ₁: Initial phase angle, where cosφ₁ = PF₁
- φ₂: Target phase angle, where cosφ₂ = PF₂
Example:
For a 100 kW load with initial PF = 0.7 and target PF = 0.95, approximately 58 kVAR of capacitance is needed.