Power Factor Optimization
The KVAR KEC is based on proven technology, called Power Factor Optimization (PFO). It reduces energy and equipment cost substantially by individually sizing each motor.
The total power (kilovolt-amperes) required to operate induction motors (transformers, electrical motors, high-intensity discharge lighting) is made up of two components: real power (kilowatts) and reactive power (kilovolt-amperes-reactive). Real power is converted by the motor directly into useful work. Reactive power is required to provide the electromagnetic flux necessary for the operation of an induction motor.
Power factor is the ratio of real power to total power. All motors use more reactive power, or “non-productive current” then what is needed to operate. This results in a low power factor. The excessive, unused current is expressed as heat and strains equipment.
Adding properly sized capacitators, like the KVAR Energy Control Box, to an induction motor circuit will reduce the reactive power required by the motor and, therefore, improve the power factor. The KVAR KEC technology evens out electrical usage and eliminated the need to draw excessive power from the electric utility supplier.
Improving the power factor of an induction motor will result in reduction of source current required by the motor. Line losses in the conductor supplying the load will also be reduced. The magnitude of the reduction in line losses and the potential billing savings is dependent on the size and length of the conductor supplying the load as well as the power factor improvement.