What is Power Factor Correction (PFC)? Your Complete Guide to Energy Efficiency
Power Factor Correction uses capacitors to eliminate demand penalties caused by reactive power. Learn the 6 essential steps to maximize efficiency and cost savings.
The Challenge: Reactive Power Penalties
Power Factor (PF) is a fundamental measure of how effectively electrical power is converted into useful work output in a circuit. It is expressed as a ratio between Real Power (kW) (the useful power) and Apparent Power (kVA) (the total power supplied).
Devices like motors introduce reactive power, which doesn't do useful work but increases your billed maximum demand (kVA). The goal is to achieve a Power Factor as close to 1 (unity) as possible. Most commercial and industrial sites operate below this, sometimes as low as 0.6.
The Solution: Strategic Capacitor Deployment
Power Factor Correction involves strategically adding capacitors to an electrical system. This process is crucial for reducing inefficiencies caused by common industrial devices, such as electric motors and transformers.
These devices introduce Reactive Power into the system. Unlike active power, reactive power doesn't directly contribute to useful work but instead circulates, increasing the total Apparent Power (kVA) and lowering the Power Factor. By introducing capacitive reactive power, PFC counteracts the inductive reactive power from equipment, thus managing the total flow of power, reducing kVA, and improving overall system efficiency.
The Result: Tangible Financial Benefits
Implementing Power Factor Correction delivers tangible financial and operational advantages:
Cost Savings
For users on demand-based tariffs, improving Power Factor significantly reduces maximum demand (kVA), resulting in guaranteed lower utility bills.
Increased System Capacity
Improved Power Factor allows for more efficient use of existing electrical infrastructure, freeing up capacity on transformers and cables.
Optimised Equipment Performance
PFC reduces the current burden on key assets like transformers and motors, promoting longer operational lifespans and improved reliability.
In South Africa, municipal and Eskom tariffs apply specific penalties when a customer's Power Factor drops below 0.90 or 0.92. Augos PFC solutions are guaranteed to push the site's Power Factor to between 0.98 and 0.99, eliminating these utility penalty charges entirely.
The 6-Step Augos Path to Optimal PFC
Implementing PFC requires expert analysis and a structured, long-term maintenance plan:
Power Factor Survey and Inspection
A PFC specialist inspects existing equipment to assess health and capacity, providing a report detailing necessary repairs and upgrades.
Quality of Supply (QOS) Logging
A QOS logger is installed on the main supply to determine the site's required PFC capacity and necessary harmonic protection.
Detailed Cost Analysis
Using survey data, the engineering team creates a detailed cost and ROI analysis to support informed capital investment decisions.
Implementation
This may involve adding capacity to existing equipment, integrating custom-built panels, or installing new factory-built systems.
Real-Time Power Factor Monitoring
Continuous monitoring provides immediate insights and alerts about power factor performance, enabling quick corrective actions.
Annual System Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial to extend equipment lifespan and prevent unexpected failures.
Key Takeaways
PFC capacitors eliminate reactive power, reducing kVA demand and associated charges
6-step implementation process ensures optimal ROI and long-term reliability
Augos targets 0.98-0.99 PF, eliminating South African utility penalties below 0.92
Continuous monitoring and annual maintenance protect your investment