How to Calculate Total Power Factor in a Parallel AC Circuit?

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the total power factor in a parallel AC circuit, it's essential to first determine the individual powers of each impedance (Z1 and Z2) by multiplying their values by their respective power factors. Combining power factors in parallel circuits requires understanding the total active and reactive power, rather than simply adding the power factors directly. The power triangle concept is crucial for visualizing and calculating these values accurately. It's important to differentiate between active and reactive power when finding the total power factor. Understanding these principles will lead to the correct calculation of the total power factor in the circuit.
Cocoleia
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Homework Statement


I am given this circuit:
upload_2017-10-1_15-39-27.png

One of the questions is to find the total power factor of this installation. The other questions involving current and such, I have solved.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I am able to find the power of each Z1 and Z2, by multiplying the value given by the pf.
I am wondering how to combine power factors? Do I just add them for the total, or does it make a difference since they are in parallel? How does this work.

Thanks.
 
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What's 'avance'?
Cocoleia said:
I am able to find the power of each Z1 and Z2, by multiplying the value given by the pf.
Which power? Do you get it by multiplying the given power by the pf?
Cocoleia said:
I am wondering how to combine power factors?
Have you studied power triangle in ac circuits? What is the total active and total reactive power in this circuit?
 

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