Power Factor Simulation
Example 7.7: Power Factor in AC Circuits
Part (a): Power Loss in Transmission
Low power factor implies large power loss in transmission because:
P = IVcosφ (where cosφ is power factor)
To supply a given power at fixed voltage, low power factor requires higher current, leading to greater I²R losses.
Part (b): Improving Power Factor with Capacitors
Adding a capacitor can neutralize reactive current, improving power factor toward 1.
Current angle: 45°
Current capacitance: 0 μF
Power Factor (cosφ):
0.71
Apparent Power (S):
1000 VA
Real Power (P):
707 W
Reactive Power (Q):
707 VAR
Transmission Loss (I²R):
50 W
Key Concepts
Power Factor = cosφ = P/S = Real Power/Apparent Power
Capacitors provide leading reactive current to offset lagging current
Improved power factor → reduced current → lower transmission losses
