• Product
  • Suppliers
  • Manufacturers
  • Solutions
  • Free tools
  • Knowledges
  • Experts
  • Communities
Search


Power factor correction of transformer MV/LV

kVA
I%
Description

This tool calculates the required reactive power compensation for a distribution transformer to improve the system power factor and enhance efficiency. Power factor correction reduces line current, minimizes copper and iron losses, increases equipment utilization, and avoids utility penalties.

Input Parameters

  • Transformer Rated Power: The rated apparent power of the transformer (in kVA), typically found on the nameplate
  • No-Load Current (%): The no-load current as a percentage of the rated current, provided by the transformer manufacturer. This value represents magnetizing current and core losses, which are key inputs for reactive power calculation

Calculation Principle

When operating under no-load conditions, a transformer consumes reactive power to establish the magnetic field in the core. This reactive power lowers the overall power factor of the system. By installing capacitors in parallel at the low-voltage side, part of this inductive reactive power can be compensated, thereby improving the power factor to a target value (e.g., 0.95 or higher).

Output Results

  • Required capacitor capacity (kvar)
  • Comparison of power factor before and after correction
  • Estimated energy savings and payback period
  • Reference Standards: IEC 60076, IEEE 141

Ideal for electrical engineers, energy managers, and facility operators to evaluate capacitor bank sizing and optimize power system performance.

Give a tip and encourage the author!
Recommended
Maximum short-circuit current with transformer substation
Maximum short-circuit current with transformer substation
This tool calculates the maximum symmetrical short-circuit current at the output of a transformer substation, based on IEC 60865 and IEEE C37.100 standards. Results are essential for selecting circuit breakers, fuses, busbars, and cables, as well as verifying equipment’s short-circuit withstand capability. Input Parameters Power Net Fault (MVA): Short-circuit power of upstream network, indicating source strength. Higher values lead to higher fault currents. Primary Voltage (kV): Rated voltage on the high-voltage side of the transformer (e.g., 10 kV, 20 kV, 35 kV). Secondary Voltage (V): Rated voltage on the low-voltage side (typically 400 V or 220 V). Transformer Power (kVA): Apparent power rating of the transformer. Voltage Fault (%): Short-circuit impedance percentage (U k %), provided by manufacturer. Key factor in determining fault current. Joule Effect Losses (%): Load loss as a percentage of rated power (P c %), used to estimate equivalent resistance. Medium Voltage Line Length: Length of MV feeder from transformer to load (in m, ft, or yd), affecting line impedance. Line Type: Choose conductor configuration: Overhead line Unipolar cable Multipolar cable Medium Voltage Wire Size: Conductor cross-section, selectable in mm² or AWG, with Copper or Aluminum material options. Medium Voltage Conductors in Parallel: Number of identical conductors connected in parallel; reduces total impedance. Conductor Material: Copper or Aluminum, affecting resistivity. Low Voltage Line Length: Length of LV circuit (m/ft/yd), usually short but significant. Low Voltage Wire Size: Cross-sectional area of LV conductor (mm² or AWG). Low Voltage Conductors in Parallel: Number of parallel conductors on the LV side. Output Results Three-phase short-circuit current (Isc, kA) Single-phase short-circuit current (Isc1, kA) Peak short-circuit current (Ip, kA) Equivalent impedance (Zeq, Ω) Short-circuit power (Ssc, MVA) Reference Standards: IEC 60865, IEEE C37.100 Designed for electrical engineers, power system designers, and safety assessors conducting short-circuit analysis and equipment selection in low-voltage distribution systems.
Send inquiry
Download
Get the IEE Business Application
Use the IEE-Business app to find equipment, obtain solutions, connect with experts, and participate in industry collaboration anytime, anywhere—fully supporting the development of your power projects and business.