Power Quality Solutions

1. KVA v/s KW

• KVA is what you get supplied by the utility, regardless of how much is being effectively used.
  For example: Transformers, Generators, UPS

• KW is what you use. This is the Actual Power that performs useful work.
  For example: Heators, Lights, Motors

2. Power Factor (PF)

• Power Factor is the ratio of real power (kW) used to do useful work to apparent power (kVA) supplied by the utility.

• Low PF leads to higher energy bills and penalties.

• Correction of PF using SVG improves efficiency and reduces losses.

3. Active Power and Reactive Power

• Active Power (kW): The actual power that performs useful work in a system, like running motors or lights.

• Reactive Power (kVAR): Power that does no useful work but is necessary to create magnetic fields in motors and transformers.

  • It establishes and sustains the magnetic and electric fields necessary for devices like motors and transformers to operate.

4. Harmonics

• Harmonics are distortions in the electrical waveform caused by non-linear loads such as VFDs, UPS systems, and welding machines.

• High harmonics can:

  • Overheat transformers, motors, and cables

  • Cause neutral conductor overloading

  • Trigger nuisance tripping

• Active Harmonic Filters (AHF) are used to eliminate harmonics and maintain a clean and stable power supply.

• Reduced equipment lifespan due to continuous electrical stress.

• Higher electricity bills due to inefficient power usage.

5. Neutral Current

• In three-phase systems, neutral current carries the imbalance of load currents.

• Excessive neutral current, often due to harmonics, can:

  • Damage equipment

  • Pose a fire hazard

• Proper power quality solutions like SVG and AHF help reduce neutral current effectively.

• Neutral current contributes to wasted energy and higher power consumption in both the load equipment and the power supply itself.