In industrial settings, test benches are essential tools for the validation and testing of electrical components, especially when dealing with highly inductive loads and significant power levels. In such contexts, controlling and optimising the power factor becomes crucial for improving energy efficiency, reducing operational costs, and ensuring safety and operational continuity.
It is precisely in this context that Ortea has developed a tailored power factor correction system, part of the MULTImatic FH20/S series: an advanced technical solution designed to support test benches with complex and highly specific operating requirements.
THE CUSTOMER REQUIREMENT
The customer test bench, used for testing electrical components with high inductive power, required precise management of reactive load. With a maximum apparent power rating of 500 kVA, the bench occasionally exceeds this threshold, particularly in high-demand configurations.
To ensure safe, stable, and continuous operation of the testing setup, a high-performance custom power factor correction system was required, capable of effectively handling load variations and improving the energy absorption profile of the bench.
ORTEA INDUSTRIAL POWER FACTOR CORRECTION SOLUTION
The proposed solution is an industrial power factor correction system from the MULTImatic FH20/S series, rated at 960 kvar – 400V – 50Hz, specifically designed for seamless mechanical and functional integration with the test bench. The entire system has been engineered to precisely meet the client technical specifications, ensuring maximum operational reliability and full system compatibility.
Key technical features:
- Custom mechanical dimensions: 800 mm depth and an elevated base to simplify direct connection with the existing test bench.
- Top-mounted busbars: allowing for quick and secure connection in the upper section of the panel, facilitating mechanical integration.
- Independent column protection: each column is equipped with three-pole thermal-magnetic circuit breakers, compensating for the lack of dedicated protection in the main distribution board.
- Electronic contactors (static switches): used in place of traditional electromechanical contactors to drastically reduce response times, keeping them below the intervention thresholds of the test bench’s protection system.
- Optimised ventilation system: repositioned fans ensure ideal thermal conditions around the power distribution busbars, reducing overheating risk.
AN INTEGRATED AND INDEPENDENT APPROACH
The custom-designed power factor correction panel developed by Ortea is fully autonomous in terms of overload and short-circuit protection, allowing for a straightforward, safe installation even in post-commissioning phases.
The design followed a modular and tailor-made approach, fully aligned with Ortea philosophy: delivering flexible, high-performance, and reliable technical solutions in complex industrial environments, offering tangible added value in terms of energy efficiency and operational continuity.
Discover how our tailored power factor correction systems can optimise your production facilities, enhance energy performance, and reduce operating costs.
Find out more about our industrial power factor correction solutions.
