The heart of the system is a power factor controller which measures power factor continuously and switches capacitor banks in and out, in stages, to achieve the required pre-set power factor.

Switching capacitors can produce large surge currents (up to 300xIn). To avoid these damaging surges we use contactors with early make contacts, which allow limited initial currents to put a small charge into the capacitor before the main contacts close. This is known as 'soft switching'.

All capacitors used in our systems use MKP technology, metalised polypropylene film, dry type, self healing with pressure disconnecter assembled in a cylindrical aluminium case. Equipped with discharge resistors to reduce the charge voltage to 5Ov in 1 minute. Manufactured to IEC831 1, 2.

Systems are housed in sheet steel enclosures and optionally include door-linked-isolator or switch fuse and current transformer supplied loose.

Many modem electrical installations include equipment (such as variable speed controllers and UPS systems), which generate harmonics. Because capacitor impedance falls with frequency, these harmonics produce excess currents, which can cause premature failure. Where harmonics are likely to be a problem, we can supply detuned systems, which include inductive reactors to limit higher frequency currents.

With all systems Phasetech offer installation and commissioning services and a 12 month, on-site warranty, against equipment failure.