Reactive Power Compensation Device (PFC)

A reactive power compensation device (PFC) is a system designed to effectively compensate for reactive power and improve the efficiency of power grids. Its key function is to improve the system’s power factor and reduce electrical energy losses.

The device operates primarily by using capacitors that supply the reactive power required for compensation.

System Advantages

Key benefits of implementing a reactive power compensation (PFC) system:

• Lower electricity costs: Helps reduce active energy consumption, resulting in significant savings on electricity bills.
• Improved equipment efficiency: Reactive power compensation promotes more efficient operation of electrical equipment, extending its service life.
• Reduced power losses: Significantly reduces electrical energy losses within the power transmission system, improving the overall efficiency of power supply.
• Enhanced grid reliability: Helps stabilize voltage levels across the network, improving the reliability of electrical systems.
• Increased capacity: Enables the connection of additional consumers.
• More reliable power supply: Reduces the risk of emergency situations.
• Rapid payback: Cost savings allow the investment in installing the PFC system to be recouped quickly.

The reactive power compensation capacitors included in the system ensure accurate and efficient operation of the compensation system. They integrate easily into the electrical grid and can significantly reduce the load on transformers and transmission lines.

Where Can PFC Be Used?

Capacitor banks for reactive power compensation are used in:

• industrial facilities (for example, for electric motors and induction furnaces);
• residential and public buildings (e.g., for elevators and lighting systems);
• agriculture (e.g., for pumps and irrigation systems).

The demand for reactive power compensation in residential buildings is increasing. The system not only helps reduce electricity costs but also extends the service life of electrical equipment.

The PFC reactive power compensation device offers a reliable solution for maintaining the stability of electrical networks in residential applications.

Design Features

Reactive power compensation devices consist of:

• capacitor units:
  • capacitor banks (fixed-capacity capacitor banks—provide constant reactive power and are suitable for networks with a constant load);
  • reactive power controllers (automatic—analyze grid parameters and control capacitor banks; manual—provide stepwise power adjustment);
• power components:
  • contactors—for switching capacitor stages;
  • fuses—protection against short-circuit currents.
• control system:
  • controllers—measure grid parameters and control capacitor banks;
  • interfaces – for configuring and monitoring the operation of the PFC.

All components of the device are housed in a metal cabinet that provides protection against dust and moisture, ensures safe operation, and allows for compact equipment arrangement. The design itself is modular, making it easy to perform maintenance and repairs, as well as install new components.

A reactive power compensation system offers numerous advantages, such as reduced cable losses, increased efficiency of electrical equipment, and improved reliability and stability of power grids. The system is also technically straightforward, since all components are pre-installed at the factory. All that remains is to connect them and commission the equipment. However, this task should still be entrusted to professionals.

Selection Guidelines 

To select a reactive power compensation system, consider the following: 

• Power rating: Must match the facility’s power requirements. 
• Capacitor bank type: Select the appropriate configuration for the system. 
• Reactive power controller type: Select the appropriate controller for the system.  
• Auxiliary features: Availability of built-in protections, including overvoltage protection, harmonic mitigation/filtering, and temperature control. 

To purchase a reactive power compensation device, simply browse Nika Energy’s catalog or send an inquiry via email. We offer competitive prices on ready-made units and on the custom manufacturing of reactive power compensation systems (PFC) according to your specifications. You can order a system anywhere in Ukraine by phone, with a quality guarantee and technical support at every stage.