PFC equipment for panel builders

14 June 2011

Installing PFC equipment in LV panels offers a number of important benefits, including the reduction or even elimination of expensive utility penalties for poor power factor control and an overall improvement in energy efficiency. Moreover, good PFC control reduces peak currents, preventing fuse failure and loss of supply, and equipment will last longer because less heat is generated within cables, switchgear and transformers.

ABB can supply a range of automatic reactive power compensation equipment to meet the specific PFC needs of panel builders. The latest addition to its range is the new Vector shelf (illustrated), which features the company's CLMD03 dry capacitor technology.

Vector capacitor shelves are able to deliver up to 100kvar in a single shelf, and come complete with stage fuses and contactors to switch the individual capacitor steps. This means they are suitable for use with conventional, varying loads. CLMD technology also includes a patented sequential protection system, ensuring reliable and fail-safe operation.

CLMD03 provides all the advantages of dry capacitor technology in a compact case. The materials of construction and ventilation technique ensure efficient heat dissipation, which is why the system is able to offer up to 50kvar in a single unit.