Review in Power Factor Correction Techniques

With the development of industries the inductive load is extremely increased due to the uses of induction motors. In the inductive circuit the current lags behind the applied voltage. The inductive load in a transmission line or in a circuit causes low power factor and as a result high current flows through that circuit and a large voltage drop occurs in it, so a greater energy loss occurs due to the heat dissipation. To reduce this power loss the power factor should be improved. Power factor lies between 0 and 1. For maximum utilisation of active power, power factor should be near to unity. There are various methods to improve power factor. In this paper the “power factor correction” is discussed and the determination of the KVAR ratings for the capacitor are explained. After an exhaustive review process, one key issue is found that is-“the method of switching on and off the capacitors”. The outcome of the review was in the form of various findings, found under the key issue. The overall target is the improvement in power factor, which is advantageous for both the suppliers of electricity as well as the consumers.