Optimal use of electrical energy is crucial to ensure safe and efficient operation of the transmission system and the end devices connected to the network. Reactive power compensation is ensured by special solutions installed within the network. What is reactive power, how does it affect the correct and efficient, and at the same time economical operation of the system?
Check out the reactive power compensators at the Onninen wholesaler
What is reactive power?
In physics, reactive power is a concept that relates to electricity. It is used in the context of energy transmission, in AC networks. Although reactive power does not perform work like active power, it is necessary for the correct operation of the system and efficient transmission. Thanks to reactive power, it is possible to maintain the magnetic and electric fields inside devices such as transformers, capacitors or motors.
In an electrical system, reactive power circulates, without performing useful work, between the receiver and the source of this power. The value of reactive power is the difference in the phase power of the current and voltage. It is important for the operation of the system, but it should be remembered that if there is too much of it, the transfer of energy in the system will become inefficient and will become a source of energy losses.
The impact of reactive power compensation on the efficiency of the electrical installation
To improve the efficiency of the entire power transmission system, reactive power compensation (nN) is necessary. In this way, the system operation can be optimized. Properly performed compensation allows to reduce energy losses. The presence of reactive power causes the amount of current flowing through the system wires to be greater. Thanks to appropriate compensation of reactive power, it is possible to reduce it, which consequently allows to reduce the loss of active power. Thanks to the reduction, losses are smaller not only within the wires, but also within the transformers or motors.
The consequence of introducing reactive power compensation is an increase in the efficiency of active power. In practice, this means that the same value of active power can be transmitted using less energy, thus increasing the transmission capacity. The amount of useful energy transmitted increases without the need for expensive infrastructure expansion.
The positive effect of reactive power compensation is also observed in terms of the power factor value, which is usually close to 1. A higher value of the factor means that the amount of apparent power used in the process of providing active power allows for more efficient use of available energy. Consequently, this means a reduction in electricity costs.
Check out the reactive power compensators at the Onninen wholesaler
How do reactive power compensators affect the quality of electricity?
The efficiency of the network operation using reactive power compensation allows for a real improvement in the stability of the system and the quality of the voltage. Stabilization of the voltage level is one of the desired effects of compensation, as it ensures the proper operation of electrical devices. By limiting voltage fluctuations, the risk of a network failure is reduced, and the devices connected to it are safer. Improving the quality of current allows for an increase in the life of devices.
As reactive power compensators, appropriate capacitors and chokes are used, allowing for the improvement of network parameters. Power and lightning protection systems and compensators are key elements that should be found in every power system for the safety of the system operation.
Reactive power compensators at the Onninen wholesaler
Reactive power should be used effectively, because it allows for real savings and improvement of the efficiency of the entire power grid system. This action is possible using appropriate devices, such as the SMONE 400 V .4kVAR SM-KMBP-2.4-0.4-4L-W 106054 capacitive reactive power compensator . Reduction of reactive power consumption makes it possible to effectively and optimally manage available energy resources. The device creates new possibilities, due to its wall-mounted design, it can be used, among others, in offices, workshops, or other specialist offices, where real savings are behind reactive power compensation.
The offer also includes models such as the SVG 50 kVAR 400V reactive power compensator with a wall-mounted panel SM-SVG-50-0.4-4L-W 106003 , allowing for active and dynamic compensation. A device that can limit both capacitive and inductive reactive power. This is modern equipment that works with specially developed algorithms that detect phase shifts, reducing their impact and the amount of reactive power. Equipment that uses a color touch panel that makes operation easier. Thanks to the possibility of connecting an additional, external HMI panel, this is a solution characterized by high flexibility. The feature that distinguishes this device is the function that allows for the elimination of three-phase asymmetry, which in turn has a positive effect on the overall network efficiency.
Onninen also offers capacitors, such as the Elma Energia MKG low voltage gas capacitor with temperature sensor KG_MKG-2.5-400 . This is a three-phase capacitor, which is said to be the latest generation solution. The cylindrical housing has overpressure protections, which are responsible for breaking the electrical connection at the end of the device's life. All for increased safety, because the protection prevents the device from breaking. A major advantage is the high efficiency of gas capacitors, as well as the built-in temperature sensor, with a normally closed switch. The sensor opens when the device reaches a temperature of +60 degrees Celsius. This protects not only the device, but also the capacitor banks. Long service life and low active power losses are the advantages that encourage the use of compensators. According to manufacturers, the service life can be up to 120,000 hours. Even at the end of the life, when the housing is leaking, the device can still operate for up to 15,000 hours.
Check out the reactive power compensators at the Onninen wholesaler