Compensated Reactive Power For Mechanical Loads Power Factor Calculator

Compensated Reactive Power Formula:

\[ Q2 = Pmax \times (\tan(\varphi1) - \tan(\varphi2)) \]

Compensated Reactive Power 2 (Q2):

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1. What is Compensated Reactive Power?

Compensated Reactive Power (Q2) refers to the reactive power that needs to be compensated to improve the power factor of electrical systems, particularly for mechanical loads and lighting systems. It helps reduce reactive power consumption and improve system efficiency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Compensated Reactive Power formula:

\[ Q2 = Pmax \times (\tan(\varphi1) - \tan(\varphi2)) \]

Where:

\( Q2 \) — Compensated Reactive Power 2 (Watt)
\( Pmax \) — Maximum Load Power (Watt)
\( \varphi1 \) — Inverse Cosine 1 of power factor before compensation (degrees)
\( \varphi2 \) — Inverse Cosine 2 of target power factor (degrees)

Explanation: The formula calculates the reactive power that needs to be compensated to achieve the desired power factor improvement in electrical systems.

3. Importance of Power Factor Correction

Details: Power factor correction reduces reactive power consumption, decreases energy losses, improves voltage regulation, and can lead to significant cost savings in electrical systems. Proper compensation helps utilities and consumers optimize energy usage.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter maximum load power in watts, inverse cosine values in degrees (typically between 0-90 degrees). All values must be valid positive numbers with φ1 > φ2 for meaningful compensation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is power factor correction important?
A: Power factor correction reduces reactive power flow, decreases line losses, improves voltage stability, and can reduce electricity costs by avoiding power factor penalties.

Q2: What are typical values for φ1 and φ2?
A: φ1 is typically the current power factor angle (e.g., 45° for 0.7 PF), while φ2 is the target power factor angle (e.g., 25° for 0.9 PF).

Q3: How does reactive power compensation work?
A: Compensation typically involves adding capacitors to the system which supply reactive power, reducing the amount that needs to be drawn from the supply.

Q4: What are the benefits of improved power factor?
A: Benefits include reduced electricity bills, increased system capacity, improved voltage levels, and reduced carbon footprint.

Q5: When should power factor correction be implemented?
A: Correction should be considered when power factor drops below 0.85-0.90, or when utility penalties apply for low power factor operation.