What is reactive in the unit VAR?

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SUMMARY

"Reactive" in the unit VAR (Volt-Ampere Reactive) refers to the complex component of voltage or current that does not perform any real work but is essential for maintaining the voltage levels necessary for active power to flow. This concept is often described as "phantom" power, which can lead to inefficiencies in power transmission when there is an unmatched system. Reactive power is measured using transducers that account for phase shifts, similar to how Watt transducers measure real power. Understanding reactive power is crucial for improving transmission efficiency in electrical systems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrical power concepts: real, reactive, and apparent power.
  • Familiarity with voltage and current phase relationships.
  • Knowledge of power transmission systems and their efficiency.
  • Experience with transducers and their role in measuring electrical parameters.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of reactive power and its impact on power systems.
  • Learn about the operation and application of transducers in measuring VAR.
  • Explore methods to improve transmission efficiency in electrical networks.
  • Study the relationship between reactive power and power factor correction techniques.
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Electrical engineers, power system analysts, and anyone involved in optimizing power transmission efficiency will benefit from this discussion on reactive power in VAR.

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what is "reactive" in the unit VAR?

what is "reactive" in the unit VAR?
 
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Reactive refers to the complex part of voltage or current.

It is a bit confusing for most to think in terms of "imaginary", but one way to think of it is "phantom" power. :rolleyes:

See this discussion with respect to real, reactive and apparent power -
http://www.allaboutcircuits.com/vol_2/chpt_11/2.html
 
thank you very much! :)
 
I think you can think of it, in power transmission terms, as power being sent back to the source due to an unmatched system. Thus reducing the transmission efficiency. In the power industry, one measures Vars with transducers much like Watt transducers with some phase shifting.

Regards
 
thank you again! :)
 

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