Automatic Power Factor Improvement System
This project aims to improve the power factor of inductive loads using an Arduino Uno-based control system and a capacitor bank. The system continuously monitors the power factor and dynamically adjusts capacitance to ensure near-unity power factor, reducing losses in the transmission line.
Features
- Dynamic Power Factor Correction: Real-time adjustment of capacitors to improve the power factor.
- Hardware Integration: Involves Arduino Uno, transformers, Op-Amps, and capacitor banks for accurate measurement and correction.
- Software Simulation: Circuit simulated in Proteus and code developed using Arduino IDE.
- Energy Efficiency: Reduces transmission losses by maintaining a high power factor.
Implementation Details
- Arduino Uno: Measures phase angle and power factor, controls the capacitor bank, and displays output on an LCD.
- Proteus Simulation: Designed the circuit including transformers, XOR gates, and zero-detection circuits for precise measurement.
- Capacitor Bank Control: Used relays to connect capacitors dynamically based on system requirements.
- Power Factor Algorithm: An algorithm in Arduino optimally switches capacitors to maintain the desired power factor.
Challenges Faced
- Determining transformer inductance values for accurate voltage and current measurements.
- Implementing error-free open-circuit detection.
- Debugging and adding delays to stabilize the correction algorithm.
Future Prospects
- Adding more capacitors for finer adjustment.
- Transitioning to Arduino Mega for expanded control capabilities.