Introduction to capacitive compensation

Capacitive compensation is a technique used in electrical systems to improve the quality and efficiency of the electrical power supply. It consists of the incorporation of capacitive elements in the network to counteract the inductive effects present mainly in industrial and commercial electrical loads. This compensation helps correct the power factor, reduce losses and improve system stability.

The basic principle lies in balancing inductive reactive power with capacitive reactive power, thus reducing the total current that circulates through the network and optimizing the use of conductors and transformers. Capacitive compensation can be fixed or variable, and its application is essential for the efficient operation of modern electrical networks.

Nature of reactive power

Reactive power is the component of electrical power that oscillates between the source and the load without doing useful work, mainly generated by inductive loads such as motors, transformers and coils. It is measured in volt-ampere reactive (VAR) and causes a phase shift between voltage and current, which decreases the power factor and increases losses in the system.

This type of power does not directly contribute to the energy consumed by the load, but is essential for the operation of electromagnetic devices. However, its excessive presence generates inefficiencies and overloads in the electrical infrastructure, which makes it necessary to compensate it using capacitive elements.

Capacitive compensation acts by introducing capacitive reactive power that opposes inductive power, reducing the phase angle and improving the overall power factor of the system. This allows a more efficient use of the installed capacity and avoids tariff penalties on electricity consumption.

Principles of operation of capacitors in compensation