Power Factor Correction Calculator
COMPUTE REQUIRED KVAR & CAPACITANCE FOR INDUSTRIAL LOADSRequired Capacitor Bank Rating
Formulas & Definitions
Qc = P × (tan φ₁ - tan φ₂)
Improving power factor reduces reactive power demand from the grid, lowers line currents, decreases voltage drops, and prevents reactive energy penalty charges on utility bills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Power Factor Correction important?
Low power factor causes high reactive current flow in transformers and cables, increasing losses and voltage drop. Utility providers penalize industrial facilities whose power factor drops below 0.90 – 0.95.
Should I connect capacitors in Delta or Star?
In 3-phase industrial power factor correction, capacitors are almost always connected in Delta (Δ). Delta connection requires 1/3 the capacitance of a Star connection for the same kVAr rating at line voltage.
What is the risk of over-correction (Leading PF)?
Over-correcting past 1.0 into a leading power factor (capacitive load) can cause harmonic resonance, overvoltage on transformer terminals, and potential tripping of variable frequency drives.