Electrical Substation Equipment: Capacitor and Its Functions

In an electrical substation, capacitors are important pieces of equipment used for various functions related to power factor correction and voltage support. Here's a breakdown of capacitors and their functions in a substation:

Fig- Capacitors Bank Connection Diagram

The Major Functions of Capacitors in a Substation

Power Factor Correction: One of the primary functions of capacitors in a substation is power factor correction. Electrical loads can be either resistive, inductive, or capacitive. Inductive loads (e.g., motors, transformers) consume reactive power, which leads to a lagging power factor. By connecting capacitors in parallel with the inductive loads, the overall reactive power demand is reduced, and the power factor is improved. This helps in maximizing the active power (real power) transferred in the system and optimizes energy efficiency.

Why Heater Use 2 Phases instate of 3 Phases AC?

 

In general, heaters are designed to convert electrical energy into heat energy for various applications, such as space heating, water heating, industrial processes, and more. The choice of using 2-phase or 3-phase AC power for a heater depends on several factors, including power requirements, system efficiency, and cost considerations.

Factors to Select Power Supply Phases for Electric Heater

Power Requirements: The power requirement of the heater plays a crucial role in determining the number of phases used. For low to moderate power applications, a single-phase AC supply is sufficient. However, for higher power applications, three-phase AC power is generally preferred due to its ability to deliver more power with lower current compared to single-phase or two-phase systems.