Capacitor Panel

Reactive power may not be measured as useful work, but it adds to the total load on the network (including heating of power lines) and steadily increases your electric bill. The Capacitor Panel has been devised to correct the reactive power problem at its origin by ensuring a consistent power factor is maintained at different load cycles. At Perfect Automation & Innovation, we design the panels after reviewing the switching behaviour of the facility, and selecting the type and size of capacitors needed is based on actual demand instead of theoretical calculations.

Detuned capacitor banks have been assembled using the appropriate contactors or thyristor switching rated for the required speed of correction. Each phase is also protected with independent fuses and a discharge system to safely manage residual voltage after disconnection of the capacitors. Finally, an automatic power factor controller continuously monitors system input and output information before adjusting bank stage size to prevent overcorrection.

Busbars are designed to minimize heat generated from harmonics due to fluctuating current and to provide cooling through adequate ventilation. Therefore, capacitors work best when exposed to the least amount of heat. The construction of capacitors is such that if they are maintained within their specified temperature limits, they will last a long time. In addition to being able to see the status of the steps, it is easy to inspect the steps during routine maintenance.

The ability to add communication modules for energy monitoring systems is available to provide real-time power factor trending and load characteristics.

The Capacitor Panel can be used in manufacturing plants, commercial buildings and infrastructure projects to improve electrical performance by providing mitigation of reactive power, reduced losses, and improved voltage profile; providing reliable and cost-effective electrical service.