The core function of power factor correction (PFC) is to optimize the operational efficiency and safety of the power system, which is reflected in the following aspects:
1, Improve the efficiency of electricity utilization
By adjusting the phase of the input current waveform to match the voltage waveform, the load exhibits resistive characteristics, reduces total harmonic distortion (THD), thereby reducing the transmission of reactive power and increasing the proportion of active power by 15%. For example, using active PFC technology in switching power supplies can increase the power factor to nearly 1.0, significantly reducing energy waste.
2, Reduce power grid losses
Low power factor can cause a large amount of reactive current and harmonic current to be generated in the line, increasing energy loss during transmission. After correction, the line loss and transformer loss of the power grid can be significantly reduced, improving the overall distribution efficiency.
3, Ensure the safety of equipment and power grid
Harmonic current and voltage distortion may cause equipment overheating, fire risk, and component damage. After calibration, it can effectively suppress harmonics, avoid irreversible damage to connected equipment (such as cables, generators, etc.), and reduce voltage fluctuations in the power grid.
4, Save electricity costs
Power companies usually charge additional electricity fees to users with low power factors. Through calibration, the apparent power demand can be reduced, resulting in a decrease of 35% in electricity expenses. For example, in industrial scenarios, increasing the power factor from 0.7 to 0.95 can reduce electricity bills by about 20%.
5, Enhance system capacity
Low power factor will occupy the redundant capacity of power grid equipment, causing transformers and other equipment to be unable to operate at full load. The capacity released after calibration can support more load access, delaying device expansion demand by 36. For example, a certain factory has upgraded its PFC system and connected 30% of its production equipment without increasing the number of transformers.
6, Stable power supply quality
By suppressing current pulses and harmonic interference, voltage drops or flicker caused by sudden changes in current can be avoided, and the operational stability of other sensitive equipment in the same power grid can be improved.