Micro controller based Power Factor Correction

Naga Siva Rama Murthy V

doi:10.47392/irjash.2020.170

Abstract

This paper presents the simple and low-cost design of an automatic power factor correction (APFC) system for single-phase domestic loads. The proposed design uses TRIACs to switch the capacitor banks in order to correct the power factor of inductive loads. TRIACs are more effective than electro-mechanical relays and hit the high-performance benchmarks. An Arduino board controls the switching of TRIACs. The Arduino is programmed to non-stop monitor and calculate the power factor of the connecting load by sensing the signal from CT, PT and Zero Cross Detectors (ZCDs), and keep the power factor of the load above the reference value (0.95) by appropriately energizing the capacitors in parallel to the connecting load through TRIAC switching. The value of power factor before and after improvement is displayed on LCD. The hardware prototype of the proposed APFC design is also developed to validate its operation. The satisfactory and acceptable results of the APFC system testing have confirmed that the suggested design yields a reliable output and can be further used in any single-phase practical application to ensure the power factor close tounity.

Highlights

Most of the domestic loads in the modern operation of domestic loads at low power factor electrical distribution systems are inductive in for a given voltage and power level draw more nature
This paper presents the design and practical implementation of an Automatic Power Factor Correction System (APFC) for single- phase domestic loads
As the power factor of the connected load is greater than the reference value (0.95) as Shown in Fig. 5, so there is no need of correction that is why the proposed system has not inserted the capacitor(s) in parallel to load

Summary

Introduction

Most of the domestic loads in the modern operation of domestic loads at low power factor electrical distribution systems are inductive in for a given voltage and power level draw more nature. These loads cause a the low power factor operation of low or poor power factor that can disrupt the AC residential loads require the kVA rating of voltage and reduce the performance of other utility apparatus such as transformers, transmission equipment connected on the same source or system and distribution lines, generators and protection [1]. These loads draw more currents due equipment has to be increased more for its proper to their low power factor that in turn increase the functioning [6]. Causing an additional cost of their power consumption [2]

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Conclusion