Active energy is converted into useful work and heat losses, while reactive energy pulsates between the energy source and the receiver. It is necessary for the proper operation of receivers. However, its excess is disadvantageous and results in additional costs. What exactly is reactive energy and what is an active SVG reactive power compensator ? You will read about it in this article.
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What is the division of reactive power?
Reactive power is divided into two types: inductive and capacitive. The former is drawn from the power grid and is necessary to generate a magnetic field in motors, transformers or chokes. These devices need a magnetic field to maintain the conditions necessary to perform work. In turn, capacitive reactive power is given off to the power grid by various types of receivers, e.g. lighting fixtures.
Although the presence of reactive power is necessary, it often increases the frequency of power supply network failures because it causes voltage drops in power lines and transformers.
What are the legal limits of reactive power?
Legal regulations limit the amount of reactive power drawn. The key factor in this case is the tg ∅ coefficient, which determines the ratio of inductive reactive power to active power. Exceeding the value of 0.4 is associated with financial penalties charged by distribution system operators. Electricity distributors also collect fees for introducing capacitive reactive energy into the network and too high a volume of inductive reactive energy.
What is reactive power compensation?
Reactive power compensation involves identifying its source and selecting the appropriate solution to compensate for it. Devices that generate reactive power should be installed near receivers, which means that there is no need to transport it through the power grid. In order to compensate for inductive reactive power, capacitor banks and reactive power compensators are used, while for capacitive reactive power compensation - inductive choke banks. Thanks to the use of compensation devices, the amount of reactive energy drawn from the network is limited and the possibility of exceeding the permitted value of the tg ∅ coefficient is eliminated.
What can be gained with a reactive power compensator?
In the case of capacitive reactive power any consumption is treated as above the contractual amount and is immediately associated with the calculation of fees. Costs related to above the contractual consumption of reactive power in some cases may constitute 1/3 of the value of the monthly electricity invoice. The use of appropriate devices compensating the consumed reactive power reduces this fee to zero.
Until recently, reactive energy charges were borne almost exclusively by medium and large consumers. Today, the development of modern energy meters (which, in addition to active energy, also count reactive energy) has meant that the costs associated with reactive energy are also borne by small companies, public institutions and municipal plants.
Compensating reactive power:
- we will reduce the company's electricity bills
- we will reduce the excessive consumption of reactive energy
- we will stabilize the operation of the power system
What is an SVG active reactive power compensator?
Active Reactive Power Compensator SVG is a power electronic device whose task is to compensate inductive and capacitive reactive power using a single module. Fast response, below 10 ms, to dynamic changes in the cos (φ) value ensures absolute maintenance of the set power factor parameter, individually in each phase and limitation of light flicker caused by dynamic changes in the reactive power load. In alternative devices such as capacitor banks, the response time varies between a dozen and several dozen seconds.
In the active compensator, advanced control algorithms protect the device against overloads and eliminate the occurrence of current resonance. The modular design allows for very fast and convenient expansion in the event of an increase in power demand. The SVG compensator display allows for parameterization of the device, viewing of network, compensator and load parameters. The HMI panel has a built-in memory for up to 500 recorded events (logs). Additionally, the display allows viewing of current and voltage waveforms and values of basic parameters, power quality such as: Active, reactive and apparent power, Cosφ, RMS value of voltages and currents, value of current in the neutral wire, THDI, THDU, spectrum of current and voltage harmonics, IGBT transistor temperature.
SVG reactive power compensators at the Onninen wholesaler
- One of the compensating devices reactive power in the range of 10-200 kVar is the Active Reactive Power Compensator SVG 010. The compensator can be expanded to 8 modules. The small dimensions of the device enable easy installation even in places with limited space. It is an ideal solution for power supply systems that require effective and flexible reactive power compensation.
- Another solution is the active reactive power compensator SVG 015, which offers smooth reactive power regulation. Available wall and rack versions enable flexible installation. Stepless reactive power compensation allows precise adjustment to changing conditions. This is a versatile compensator that effectively supports the stability and efficiency of electrical power systems.
- As for the Active Reactive Power Compensator SVG30 with a fast response time of less than 15 ms. Thanks to the 3-level topology of IGBT controllers, it provides precise control of reactive power. The switching frequency up to 20 kHz minimizes energy losses and increases work efficiency. The optional 4.3" HMI control panel or Wi-Fi module enable convenient monitoring and control. The possibility of parallel connection of modules allows the expansion of the reactive power compensation system.
- SVG 050 Active reactive power compensator offers the option of a 7" control panel enabling data saving and export to an external USB drive. The compensator control panel also enables generating weekly, monthly and current reports from recorded parameters, changing the data aggregation interval and exporting them. Additionally, the ASVG type of this active compensator enables filtering of current harmonics of the H3, H5, H7, H9, H11 and H13 orders, which allows for eliminating interference and improving power quality.
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