ENERGY CONSERVATION
The careful use and conservation of electrical energy has become increasingly important in recent years, and now has reached a crucial point. A low power factor results in the inefficient use of electrical power, wasted energy, and often higher electric bills. The situation is really that simple and should be corrected whenever possible.
BETTER UTILIZATION OF POWER
Power Factor is the name given to the ratio of actual power, Kilowatts (KW), being used in a circuit to the “apparent” power, (KVA), being drawn from the power line. Increasing the power factor is merely a matter of better utilization of power being drawn from the power source. If a given motor has a power factor of 75%, and it is raised to 95%, the KVA would be reduced by 26%, meaning less overall amps (KVA) are required to do the same amount of work (KW). A Steelman KVAR Unit can do just that.
REDUCING UTILITY CHARGES
We guarantee that a properly sized Steelman KVAR Unit will increase the power factor of a given electrical installation, and therefore will reduce the line current. However, due to the variables in rates, rate structures, demand charges, etc., you should consult with your local power company as to the actual monetary savings.
RELEASE OF SYSTEM CAPACITY
As the power factor is improved, the current in the existing system will be reduced. This reduction in current will permit additional loads to be added to the system without increasing the original system ampacity. Steelman KVAR Power Factor Correction Capacitors may be installed at the motor or distribution panel, or a combination of the two.
ACTUAL MONETARY SAVINGS
Most utilities bill their industrial and commercial customers based on Kilowatt Demand in addition to Kilowatt Hours. In many cases, the utility rate structure is altered if the installation has a power factor below a predetermined percentage. It is not uncommon for this percentage to be 85% to 100%. If the installation power factor is below this required percentage, the utility billing is then based on the KVA Demand times the required power factor percentage instead of billing by Kilowatt Demand. The difference between the two billings is known as the power factor penalty charge.
Proper selection of Steelman KVAR Units can eliminate all power factor penalty charges. Consult the factory to assist in sizing the proper KVAR Units for a particular installation. Payback can be as little as one year, depending on the application and equipment selected.
IMPROVED VOLTAGE
Steelman KVAR Units will increase the distribution system voltage. This permanent boost in voltage will reduce the effects of voltage drop due to long conductors, and in many cases will improve motor performance. Under certain conditions, adding power factor correction capacitors to an installation can make it possible to do the job without changing the motor to a larger horsepower unit, when low voltage is the problem.
REDUCE POWER LOSSES
Another benefit of Steelman KVAR capacitors is a reduction in distribution system losses. An improvement from an original power factor of .75 to .95 in an average industrial plant will reduce these losses approximately 38%, provided the capacitors are installed near the individual loads.
