Kondensatoranlæg

A kondensatoranlæg, or capacitor bank, is an electrical device used to store electrical energy in the form of an electrostatic field. It is composed of multiple capacitors connected in parallel or series to achieve a desired capacitance and voltage rating. The primary purpose of a kondensatoranlæg is to improve the power factor of an electrical system. In many industrial and commercial facilities, inductive loads such as motors and transformers cause the current to lag behind the voltage, resulting in a low power factor. This can lead to increased energy costs and reduced efficiency.

By installing a kondensatoranlæg, capacitive reactance is introduced into the system, which compensates for the inductive reactance. This brings the current and voltage waveforms closer in phase, thereby improving the power factor. A higher power factor means that more of the apparent power supplied is converted into useful work, reducing reactive power demand from the utility. Kondensatoranlæg can be fixed or automatically controlled. Fixed capacitor banks are permanently connected to the system, while automatic capacitor banks adjust their capacitance based on the real-time power factor of the system, offering more dynamic compensation. Benefits include reduced electricity bills due to lower reactive power charges, improved voltage stability, and increased system capacity. Proper sizing and placement are crucial for optimal performance and to avoid potential issues like resonance.