• Satronix (India) Private Limited

Capacitor Switching SSR (Thyristorised) For Power Factor Correction

Satronix manufactures and offers static power modules for correction of power factor. Conventional power factor correction (PFC) systems consist of a power factor controller and power capacitors. They are connected to the power line via electromechanical capacitor switching contactors. However, due to the discharge time of the capacitors, reset times are longer than 60 seconds. Generally the inrush current will be the limiting factor therefore it is important to understand the actual inrush current at the turn on value. To limit the inrush current we can add series reactor. New applications are increasingly calling for technologies that respond in realtime. Here dynamic PFC systems such as electronic thyristor modules are replacing slow electromechanical switches. Thyristors are not prone to mechanical wear; as well they have a shorter response time, longer service life being an important advantage. Eliminating mechanical capacitor contactors also avoids high inrush currents. Satronix capacitor switching modules switch the capacitors at zero-crossing, thus avoiding the inrush currents that can be as high as 200 times the rated current. These SSR modules are made using high PIV and high I2T ? value chips; and also built-in zero-crossover circuitry. These are available in range: 5 kVAR to 50 kVAR.