The PFC1 power factor controller dynamically corrects low inductive power factor lines by switching in and out of the three-phase line compensating capacitors.
 

The controller detects the load phase angle and drives its three-step output to switch in and out of the line the compensating capacitor banks with response times in the range of 1 to 5 seconds. This makes the PFC1 particularly suitable for very fast compensation of frequently started, low-duty or variable loads such as: lifts, conveyors, pumps, and fans.

The controller is fully protected, microprocessor-controlled, very simple to install, versatile and adaptable to all power factor capacitor compensation applications.
 

The PFC1 controller is designed for 50-60 Hz lines.  Characterizing features are as follows:

• Line connection to the three phases only (no connection to the neutral),
• Phase current detection with a standard 5 A secondary current transformer,
• Activation limit at 10 % of the current range ensures reliable, robust and noise-free controller operation,
• Three step output system swithces the compensating capacitors progressively in and out of the line at every measured sample,
• Dual type galvanically isolated outputs (24 VDC and contact) to directly drive solid state relays (SSRs) and /or higher voltage loads such as contactors.  The SSRs can directly be driven by the 24 VDC outputs while contactors and similar devices are activated via the PFC1 isolated contact outputs,
• DIP switch selectable measurement average accumulation/sampling time of 1, 2, 3 and 5 seconds,
• DIP switch selectable initial output state at controller activation while the first measurement is being made to immediately compensate known loads,
• DIP switch changes are immediately effective at the next PFC1 activation,
• Simple and intuitive four LED display indicates the measured power factor and controller status,
• Comprehensive error detection handles reverse current transformer connection, wrong phase line connection, out-of-range line frequency (valid range is 45 - 66 Hz) and line faults,
• Current transformer phase error compensation,
• Compensating capacitor time-out protection after switch-out to allow for proper discharging before the next switch-in,
• Protection against line overvoltages and faults,
• 24 VDC outputs are protected against overvoltages and are current limited, and
• DIN rail mountable plastic enclosure.

 

Assembled, ready-to-install power factor correction systems in wall mountable cabinets are available on a custom basis.