The discussion centers on the implications of power factor correction (PFC) using capacitor banks, particularly in scenarios where inductive loads, such as motors, are present. It is established that utilities may penalize for both lagging and leading power factors, with leading power factors potentially causing local system stability issues and increased wear on electrical components. The optimal power factor correction is around 0.85, and while utilities typically do not penalize for excessive capacitance directly, they may investigate issues arising from it. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding reactive power dynamics and the role of synchronous motors in managing power factor.
PREREQUISITESElectrical engineers, facility managers, and anyone involved in optimizing power factor for industrial or commercial electrical systems will benefit from this discussion.
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?