Power Factor Correction - Power Factor Correction Methods:
The power factor correction means bringing the power factor of an AC circuit closer to one by using the equipment which absorbs or supplies the reactive power to the AC circuit.
Generally, the power factor correction can be done by using the capacitor and the synchronous motor in the circuit. The power factor correction will not change the amount of real power, but it will reduce the apparent power and the total current drawn from the load. We will learn different types of power factor correction methods. The power factor correction methods are mainly classified into three types.
1) Capacitor Bank Method
2) Synchronous Condenser Method
3) Phase Advancer Method
Power Factor Correction by using Capacitor Bank Method:-
In three phase system, Power factor Correction means reducing the phase difference between voltage and current. Since a majority of loads are inductive, they require some amount of reactive power for them to function. This reactive power is provided by the capacitor or bank of capacitors installed parallel to the load. They perform as a source of local reactive power and thus less reactive power flows through the line. Mainly they reduce the phase difference between the voltage and current.
Power Factor Correction by using Synchronous Condenser Method:-
The three-phase synchronous Condenser was running without the mechanical load, and it is connected in parallel with the load. It absorbs and generates the reactive power by varying the excitation of the motor field winding. For inductive loads, the synchronous condenser is connected to the load side and is overexcited. This makes it perform like a capacitor. It draws the lagging current from the supply or supplies the reactive power. The synchronous condenser has some disadvantages like it is costly and its installation; maintenance and operation are also not easy.
Power Factor Correction by using Phase Advancer Method:-
This is an AC exciter generally used to improve the power factor of an induction motor. They are mounted on the shaft of the motor and are linked to the rotor circuit of the motor. It improves the power factor by providing the exciting ampere turns to produce the required flux at slip frequency. Further, if ampere turns are increased, it can be made to operate at a leading power factor.