New Vector series provides the ideal power factor correction (PFC) solution for industrial and commercial networks.
ABB’s new Vector series of automatic capacitor banks is designed to provide the ideal power factor correction (PFC) solution for industrial and commercial low voltage networks. The key feature of the Vector series is ABB’s state-of-the-art CLMD03 dry capacitor technology delivered in a modular system that is easy to install, operate and service while ensuring exceptional reliability and efficiency.
Powerful and compact
The Vector series features a specially designed ventilation system to deliver the maximum possible reactive power within the minimum volume. Depending on the configuration, power ranges from 25 to 400 kvar are available.
A flexible approach for installers and panel builders
The Vector series includes four factory built modules, including three ranges of free-standing, floor mounted cubicles (Vector 400D, Vector 300 and Vector 200) and the Vector 100 wall mounted enclosure.
For panel builders, the Vector series also includes individual capacitor shelves that enable them to incorporate ABB’s PFC technology as part of their own low voltage panels.
Easy to install
Vector modules are complete units supplied factory tested and ready for connection. Commissioning can be completely automatic and there is ample space for wiring. The wall mounted enclosure is equipped with brackets while the cubicles incorporate a plinth and lifting lugs for easy handling.
Easy to use
Vector modules are simple and easy to operate thanks to the multiple automatic functions provided by the integral RVC controller. For enhanced functionality, ABB also offers the more advanced RVT controller.
Detuned installations
The presence of harmonics on the network might cause problems for the PFC capacitors, resulting in general reliability issues such as nuisance tripping or even premature failure. On request, ABB’s Power Quality specialists can carry out a network harmonic study. If harmonics are present, a simple answer is provided by adding a reactor to the Vector to create a detuned installation.
The detuned approach is always recommended for any applications where the network harmonic content is known to be greater than 15 to 20 percent. To avoid future problems it is often good practice to specify detuned equipment as a matter of course.
Total service approach
ABB offers a total PFC equipment approach that goes well beyond supplying the Vector modules. It is able to support customers through every step of the project, from establishing the problem, identifying the ideal solution and then installing and commissioning the Vector equipment. ABB also offers a comprehensive PFC equipment maintenance and repair service anywhere in Ireland.
CLMD Capacitors
ABB’s CLMD capacitors are acknowledged worldwide as the most reliable, durable and fail-safe dry capacitors on the market. They represent the combination of over 60 years experience in manufacturing dry capacitors with state-of-the-art technology, such as the unique patented sequential protection system.
CLMD03 Capacitors
At the heart of the Vector design is the latest evolution of the CLMD range – the CLMD03 that provides all the advantages of dry capacitor technology in a compact case, delivering high performance within a small installation footprint. The CLMD03 features an innovative approach to materials and ventilation that promotes enhanced heat dissipation, enabling it to offer up to 50 kvar in a single unit.
The CLMD03 design offers a number of exceptional properties such as: high voltage withstand capability; excellent peak current handling capacity; high capacitance stability; long life even under high electrical stress; very low losses; exceptional self-healing properties.
Power factor correction (PFC)
What is power factor?
Power factor (PF) is simply the relationship between the active and reactive power on an electricity distribution network. If it is 100 percent efficient then the PF would be 1. All Irish electricity suppliers impose a penalty charge when power factor is lower than 0.95
Equipment such as AC motors, arc welders, furnaces, fluorescent lighting and air conditioning can cause a poor PF. The more inductive loads on a network then the more likely it is to have a poor PF.
ABB’s dedicated Vector PFC equipment is based on capacitors that provide a source of reactive power to help increase the network’s power factor.
Power factor correction – the benefits
Installing ABB PFC equipment offers a number of important customer benefits:
- Eliminating expensive utility penalties for a poor power factor
- Improved energy efficiency – reduced system currents and kW losses
- Security of supply - reduction in peak currents prevents fuse failure and loss of supply
- Release additional capacity – to take advantage of the full current capacity available in existing transformers, switchgear and supply cables
- Increase system load without the need to invest in additional infrastructure
- Environmentally friendly - reduced kWh losses mean that less power needs to be generated, so less CO2 is produced, which contributes to carbon reduction commitments
- Increased service life of infrastructure – since the amount of heat generated within cables, switchgear, transformers and other equipment is reduced.
For more information please contact:
ABB Limited
Belgard Road
Tallaght
Dublin 24
Tel: +353 1 4057300
Email: [email protected]