What Is an APFC Panel and How Does It Work?

How the control loop works

A controller receives voltage and current measurements, calculates the compensation requirement and switches capacitor steps through suitable contactors or thyristors. As demand falls, steps disconnect to avoid excessive compensation.

Main components

Typical assemblies include capacitors, a controller, current-transformer input, switching devices, protection and discharge provisions. Detuned reactors may be required after a harmonic assessment.

Practical project example

A site with changing motor loads may need switched capacitor steps, while a site with variable-speed drives also needs a harmonic assessment. Compare measured load and power-factor profiles before choosing compensation technology.

Benefits and limits

Correctly designed compensation can reduce reactive demand and upstream current for the same real load. It does not remove the real energy consumed by machines. Tariff savings depend on the local billing arrangement and measured demand.

Frequently asked questions

Is an APFC panel suitable for every type of load?

Compensation requires a site assessment. Nonlinear loads and harmonics may require a different design, including suitable reactors and switching; avoid excessive compensation at light load.

Are the examples a GEESYS product specification?

No. Worked examples explain selection principles. Use the selected product datasheet and approved project design for actual ratings and installation requirements.

Related GEESYS products

• Apfc