MICROPROCESSOR BASED AUTOMATIC POWER FACTOR CONTROL

This paper discusses the development of a microprocessor based automatic power factor control using L.T. switched capacitors for reactive compensation. The complete system is designed employing the Intel 8085 microprocessor, allowing for an efficient management of energy resources to address the increasing demand for power, which is estimated at a growth rate of 7.5%. Given the electrical power shortages experienced at various levels, this study emphasizes the necessity of conservation measures and highlights a significant scope for reduction in transmission and distribution losses. The analysis shows that many A.C. electrical machines operate with an inefficient power factor that leads to unnecessary current generation, thus causing overheating and increased operational costs. The proposed device minimizes the number of capacitor banks, with a configuration of four units of switched capacitors proving to be more economical and efficient than multiple smaller units. The solution promises reduced current drawn from the supply, subsequently lowering consumption charges, and it can be adapted for higher loads and multiphase applications by implementing additional capacitor steps. This study contributes valuable insights into energy efficiency improvements within the power distribution sector.