CORRECTING MILL POWER-FACTOR WITH A SYNCHRONOUS CONDENSER

Becker discusses the four major components of an electric energy bill and details a way to reduce the power factor, thereby reducing the power bill. An example energy cost calculation is provided, including the payback calculation for the purchase and installation of a 7000-kVAR synchronous condenser. The advantages and disadvantages of using capacitors to correct power factor are discussed, as are the ways synchronous motors can be used for power factor correction. Becker defines the differences between a synchronous condenser and a standard synchronous machine and also explains the four methods of starting and controlling the synchronous condenser. Reducing plant power factor can have a significant impact on a plant's operating cost, so the impact of all methods of power factor correction warrants consideration. Because of interaction between equipment, the option with the lowest initial cost may not be the most cost-effective in the long run. There are numerous installations where the synchronous condenser can, and will, reduce plant operating costs and may reduce or eliminate power factor or harmonic problems in the plant.