The discussion revolves around power factor correction, specifically the implications of using capacitor banks in systems with varying loads, such as motors. Participants explore the nature of power factor penalties imposed by utilities, the effects of leading versus lagging power factors, and the operational challenges associated with capacitor banks.
Participants express differing views on whether utilities penalize for leading power factors and the implications of having a leading power factor in practice. There is no consensus on the terminology used to describe reactive power, indicating a lack of agreement on this aspect.
Some participants note the complexity of power factor correction and the potential for confusion regarding the signs used in different contexts, which may depend on regional practices or personal experiences.
Hesch said:It can be mechanically loaded at the same time. The generator at your utility is (negative) mechanically loaded while producing kVAr's.
Hesch said:It can be mechanically loaded at the same time. The generator at your utility is (negative) mechanically loaded while producing kVAr's.
rollingstein said:Out of curiosity, are there practical systems that have a natural leading power factor & hence cannot be corrected by a capacitor bank?