Product category:
Electrical and Electronic Components
News Release from: Epcos | Subject: PhaseCap HD AC capacitors
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 22 May 2001
Power factor correction capacitors cover
25-60kVAr
Epcos has unveiled a new series of PhaseCap HD AC capacitors for power factor correction which, for the first time, allows the power range above 25 to 60 Kvar to be covered with a single capacitor
Epcos has unveiled a new series of PhaseCap HD AC capacitors for power factor correction (PFC) which, for the first time, allows the power range above 25 through to 60 Kvar to be covered with a single capacitor - improving thermal response and simplifying installation The new PhaseCap HD series has been developed for heavy-duty industrial applications with extreme demands for useful life, constant capacitance and a high inrush current withstand capability
This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 28 Feb 2001 at 8.00am (UK)
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New from Epcos, the WindCap series of heavy-duty AC capacitors is specifically designed for power factor correction and harmonic current filtering in wind turbines and other industrial applications
This makes them ideal for detuned capacitor banks, wind turbine systems, AC power electronics, uninterruptible power supplies and filtering harmonics in modern power electronic applications.
Such applications typically require power steps of 25 or 50 kvar switched by a PFC controller via each capacitor contactor.
This new series provides increased packing density per bank with a decrease in component costs.
Further reading
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Compact single-phase converter filter from Epcos for currents up to 2 x 60A.
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Epcos' new higher density aluminium electrolytics with screw terminals - the perfect foil for traction applications.
Capacitors used in PFC need to endure regular switching, subjecting them to inrush currents that must be withstood without degrading service life.
The pulse strength of this new technology comes in particular from the enlarged, sensitive contact area (sprayed metal layer).
Epcos PhaseCap HD capacitors are able to withstand ultra-high inrush currents through its patented "wavy cut" technology, in addition to the capacitors heavy edge film design.
This enables inrush currents of more than 200 times rated current to be handled easily.
The capacitor is impregnated with an inert gas whilst in a high vacuum, eliminating all traces of air and moisture.
Once sealed in its cylindrical aluminium case, routine tests are performed for gas leakage.
This production process helps to avoid oxidation of the electrodes and eliminate partial discharges (corona effect).
It also ensures excellent capacitance stability, and provides the capacitor with a maintenance free life of around 130,000 hours.
The technology also features a triple safety system, incorporating dry technology, self-healing and an overpressure disconnector to provide enhanced reliability.
Dry technology, through the use of an inert gas, as opposed to oil, reduces fire risks caused by leaking or spurting oil and avoids soiling of sensitive equipment.
As it is non-polluting and allows simple disposal, dry technology is seen as a must in applications with an ecological content, and when combined with a light and compact design, means that the capacitor can be mounted in a wide range of positions - helping to create space-saving designs.
The series' self-healing system allows it to repair itself after thermal or electric overload, while the overpressure disconnector prevents the capacitor from bursting at the end of its useful life, or through electrical or thermal overload.
SIGUT terminals provide reliable and straightforward connection, even in a parallel capacitor circuit.
This allows simplified parallel connection of input ends in series, in addition to providing protection against the hazard of electric shock.
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