Power factor (PF) is a ratio that measures how efficiently electrical power is converted into useful work output. It's calculated by dividing the useful power (kW) by the total power (kVA) consumed by an electrical system. The ideal power factor is unity, or one.
Power factor is measured in kilowatts (kW) and kilovolt amperes (kVA). Apparent power, also known as demand, is the measure of the amount of power used to run machinery and equipment during a certain period. It's found by multiplying (kVA = V x A).
Power factor has a value between zero and unity. There are good, bad, and poor power factors with specific ranges:
•Good: 1.0 to 0.95
•Poor: 0.95 to 0.85
•Bad: 0.85 and below
A high power factor indicates that the power supplied to the electrical system is effectively used. A system with low power factor doesn't effectively consume the incoming electric supply and results in losses.
A low power factor can:
•Increase electricity costs
•Reduce electrical distribution capacity
•Cause sluggish motor performance
•Require larger wires and other equipment
•Electrical utilities will usually charge a higher cost to industrial or commercial customers where there is a low power factor.
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