Automatic Power Factor Correction Using Arduino: Project Demonstration

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Overview of the Project

This project demonstrates an automatic power factor correction system utilizing Arduino. The main goal is to correct the power factor based on different load types, including resistive, inductive, and capacitive loads.

Load Types Used

  • Resistive Load: 100 W
  • Inductive Load: 40 W
  • Capacitive Load: 2 microfarads at 440 volts AC

Power Factor Basics

  • The power factor decreases when inductive loads are connected, dropping from unity (1) to around 0.8 or 0.7 due to the lagging current waveform.
  • With resistive loads, the phase difference between voltage and current is minimal, resulting in a power factor close to 1 (e.g., 0.99 or 0.995).

System Operation

  1. Monitoring: The system continuously monitors the voltage and current waveforms using current transformers (CT) and voltage transformers (PT).
  2. Phase Difference Calculation: The phase difference is calculated to determine the power factor. If the power factor is below 0.9, the system activates an electromagnetic relay to add capacitors, compensating for the lagging current.
  3. Compensation: Adding capacitors leads the current waveform, counteracting the lag from the inductive load, thus improving the power factor back towards unity.
  4. Display: The power factor values are displayed on a 16x2 LCD screen for real-time monitoring.

Demonstration Steps

  • The system starts in a normal condition with a power factor of 0.95.
  • When the inductive load is activated, the power factor may drop to 0.96, prompting the relay to connect the capacitor.
  • Isolating the inductor leads to a leading power factor, demonstrating the system's ability to adjust and maintain efficiency.

Conclusion

This project effectively showcases how an Arduino-based system can automatically correct power factor issues, enhancing energy efficiency in electrical systems. For those interested in further exploring Arduino applications, check out our Comprehensive Guide to Arduino Programming: New Tutorials. Additionally, understanding the implications of power factor correction can be enhanced by reviewing Calculating Motor Efficiency: A Step-by-Step Guide, which discusses efficiency in electrical systems. If you're curious about sustainable energy solutions, consider reading Understanding the Cantic Road Concept: A Sustainable Energy Solution.

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