Power Factor Correction Controller

Poor power factor leads to penalties from electricity boards and inefficient power usage. A Power Factor Correction Controller automatically switches capacitor banks to maintain optimal PF, saving electricity and money.

Why This Project Is Popular

Power quality is critical for industries. PF correction is mandated by electricity boards. This project teaches AC power measurement, reactive power concepts, and relay control - valuable for electrical engineering careers.

Project Ideas or Guide

Build an automatic PF controller:

• Voltage/Current Sensing: Use transformers and ACS712 for safe measurement.
• PF Calculation: Measure phase difference between voltage and current.
• Capacitor Banks: Multiple relay-controlled capacitor stages.
• Control Algorithm: Switch capacitors in/out to maintain PF > 0.9.
• Display: Show real-time PF, voltage, current on LCD/OLED.
• Data Logging: Record PF trends to track improvements.

Components Used

• Arduino Mega
• Voltage Sensor (ZMCT)
• ACS712 Current Sensor
• Relay Module (8-channel)
• Capacitor Bank
• LCD Display

FAQ

Q: What is a good power factor?

A: Above 0.9 (lagging) is considered good; electricity boards penalize below 0.85.

Q: Is this safe to use with mains voltage?

A: Always use CTs and PTs for isolation - never connect directly to mains.