International Journal of All Research Education and Scientific Methods (IJARESM),

ISSN: 2455-6211, Volume 13, Issue 1, January-2025, Available online at: www.ijaresm.com

A Matlab Based Approach to Power Factor Improvement

Using Capacitor Banks in a 33/11 Kv Substation
Mrs. G. Rajitha1, U. Parsharamudu2, B. Prashanth3, J. Aravind4
1
Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Department, ACE Engineering College, Hyderabad, India
2,3,4
Student, Electrical and Electronics Department, ACE Engineering College, Hyderabad, India

--------------------------------------------------------------****************---------------------------------------------------------------

ABSTRACT

Power factor (PF) is one of the important aspects affecting the performance of the electrical network. This
phenomenon results from an increase in inductive loads, which leads to lower voltage, increase losses, and lower
efficiency in the electrical network. Different types of shunt capacitor bank (SCB) configurations are installed in the
distribution substation (DS), which can be grounded or ungrounded, fused or without fuses. These SCBs provide
voltage support, power factor correction, power transport increment, loss reduction, and enhancement of system
quality. The approach involves conducting a load flow analysis to determine the initial power factor and identify
areas requiring improvement. MATLAB is utilized for simulating different scenarios and optimizing the capacitor
bank configuration to achieve the desired power factor the study also includes designing the appropriate capacitor
banks and evaluating their performance through detailed simulations.

Keywords: simulating, MATLAB, shunt capacitor bank, loss reduction.

INTRODUCTION

In electrical systems, connected loads with unalike types consume energy in different forms according to their physical
structure and mode of operation. These loads are classified into resistive, inductive, and capacitive loads. One of the most
important factors affecting the performance of the electrical network is the power factor. The apparent power delivered to
an electrical load is much higher than active power consumed. This phenomenon results from an increase in inductive load,
which leads to lower voltages, higher losses, and lower efficiency.

The electrical energy is almost exclusively generated, transmitted and distributed in the form of alternating current.
Therefore, the question of power factor immediately comes into picture. Most of the loads (e.g. induction motors, arc
lamps) are inductive in nature and hence have low lagging power factor. The low power factor is highly undesirable as it
causes an increase in current, resulting in additional losses of active power in all the elements of power system from power
station generator down to the utilisation devices. In order to ensure most favourable conditions for a supply system from
engineering and economic standpoint, it is important to have power factor as close to unity as possible.

Improving power factor means reducing the phase difference between voltage and current. Since majority of loads are of
inductive nature, they require some amount of reactive power for them to function. This reactive power is provided by the
capacitor or bank of capacitors installed parallel to the load. They act as a source of local reactive power and thus less
reactive power flows through the line. Basically, they reduce the phase difference between the voltage and current.

LITERATURE REVIEW

The introduction effectively highlights the importance of power factor and its direct impact on energy efficiency, system
performance, and cost savings. The focus on industrial and utility applications underpins the practical significance of the
topic. By emphasizing MATLAB’s capabilities for simulation, optimization, and analysis, the review bridges theoretical
concepts with modern technological tools. The mention of Simulink, optimization algorithms, and harmonic analysis aligns
well with current trends in power system studies. The section on capacitor banks comprehensively addresses their sizing,
placement, control strategies, and the challenges (e.g., harmonic distortion). This demonstrates a well-rounded
understanding of practical considerations in power factor correction. Referencing specific case studies for 33/11 kV
substations adds practical credibility to the review, grounding the discussion in real-world scenarios. The recognition of
gaps such as renewable energy integration, advanced control techniques, and field implementation highlights the forward-
thinking nature of the review. These suggestions for future research align with global trends in smart grid development.

Page | 3024
 International Journal of All Research Education and Scientific Methods (IJARESM),
ISSN: 2455-6211, Volume 13, Issue 1, January-2025, Available online at: www.ijaresm.com

IMPLEMENTATION
Simulink Blocks used in the Project Simulation:
1. Three-Phase Source:

Fig 1 Three-Phase Source

Purpose: Implement three-phase source with internal R-L impedance

Description: The Three-Phase Source block implements a balanced three-phase voltage source with internal R-L
impedance. The three voltage sources are connected in Y with a neutral connection that can be internally grounded or made
accessible. You can specify the source internal resistance and inductance either directly by entering R and L values or
indirectly by specifying the source inductive short-circuit level and X/R ratio.

Fig 2 Three Phase Source Block Parameters

2. Three-phase transformer:

Fig 3 Three Phase Source Block

Purpose: Aids in the development, optimization, and troubleshooting of complex electrical systems in a safe, cost-
effective, and scalable manner.

Description: With two windings can be modelled using the Three-Phase Transformer (Two Windings) block. This block
allows you to simulate a three-phase transformer with configurable winding connections and core geometry2. Here's a brief
overview of how to use this block:
Page | 3025
 International Journal of All Research Education and Scientific Methods (IJARESM),
ISSN: 2455-6211, Volume 13, Issue 1, January-2025, Available online at: www.ijaresm.com

Fig 4 Three Phase Transformer (Two Windings) Block Parameters

3. Three-Phase V-I Measurement

Fig 5 Three-Phase V-I Measurement block

Purpose:To measure and monitor the electrical parameters of three-phase systems

Description: Block is instantaneous in a circuit process of measuring the voltages and currents in a three-phase electrical
system. This is crucial for analyzing the performance and efficiency of electrical systems, especially in industrial and power
distribution applications.

Fig 6 Three Phase V-I Measurement Section Block Parameters

Page | 3026
 International Journal of All Research Education and Scientific Methods (IJARESM),
ISSN: 2455-6211, Volume 13, Issue 1, January-2025, Available online at: www.ijaresm.com

4. Three-Phase Parallel RLC Load

Fig 7 Three-Phase Parallel RLC Load

Purpose:Its primary purpose is to model and simulate the behavior of real-world electrical loads in three-phase power
systems.

Description: Block is used to model a balanced three-phase load as a parallel combination of resistive (R), inductive (L),
and capacitive (C) elements. Here's how you can use this block

Fig 8 Three Phase Parallel RLC Load Section Block Parameters

5. RMS (Root Mean Square):

Fig 9 Block diagram of RMS

Purpose: RMS values provide a standardized, practical, and meaningful way to quantify AC signals for power calculations,
equipment design, and system analysis.

Description: Block is designed to compute the RMS value of an input signal, which is an important measure in both
electrical engineering and signal processing. The RMS value is essentially a statistical measurement of the magnitude of a
varying signal. This block is particularly useful for analysing the effective power of AC signals or any other oscillating
signals.

Page | 3027
 International Journal of All Research Education and Scientific Methods (IJARESM),
ISSN: 2455-6211, Volume 13, Issue 1, January-2025, Available online at: www.ijaresm.com

I. EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATIONS
Theoretical Calculations:
Step 1: Calculate the power factor of the load
The formula for the power factor is:
Real Power (P)
Power Factor (PF)=
p 2 +Q 2
Here:
P=10kW (Real Power)
Q=5kVAR (Reactive Power)
Substitute the values:
10 10 10 10
PF = 2 2
= = = ≈ 0.8944
10 +5 100 +25 125 11.18
So, the power factor is 0.8944.

Step 2: Calculate the capacitor bank (kVAR) required

To correct the power factor to 0.95, the reactive power needs to be adjusted. The formula for the required capacitor bank is:
Qcapacitor=P*(tan(θactual)−tan(θrequired))
Where:
θactual =cos−1(0.8944) ≈ 26.570
θrequired= cos−1(0.95) ≈ 18.190

Substitute into the formula for Qcapacitor:

Qcapacitor=10⋅(tan (26.57∘)−tan(18.19∘))
Using the tangent values:
tan(26.57∘)≈0.5
tan(18.19∘)≈0.3528
Qcapacitor=10⋅(0.5−0.3528)=10⋅0.14714=1.4714kVAR

Final Answer:
Power factor = 0.8944
Capacitor bank required = 1.4714kVAR

MATLAB program to calculate the required kVAR of capacitor

1. Inputs: The user is prompted to enter the real power (in kW) and reactive power (in kVAR).

2. Initial Power Factor Calculation: The initial power factor is calculated using the real power and reactive power.

3. Check and Decision: The script checks if the initial power factor is greater than 0.95. If it is, no changes are needed.
Otherwise, it proceeds to calculate the required capacitor bank rating.

4. Capacitor Bank Calculation: The required capacitor kVAR to achieve the desired power factor of 0.95 is calculated
using the formula.

5. Outputs: The initial power factor and the required capacitor bank rating are displayed.

Program
Real_Power=input("Enter the value of Real power in KW ");
Reactive_Power = input("Enter the value of Reactive power in KVAR ");
power_factror = (Real_Power/(sqrt(Reactive_Power^2+Real_Power^2)));
Q1=power_factror;
disp (Q1)
if Q1>0.95disp("No need to change")
else
%required power_factor
pf1=0.95;
disp ("Capacitor Bank Required to maintain 0.95 p.f")
C=Real_Power*tan (acos (Q1)-acos (pf1)); % C is the rating of capacitor to maintain 0.95 rating KVAR
disp(C)
end
Page | 3028
 International Journal of All Research Education and Scientific Methods (IJARESM),
ISSN: 2455-6211, Volume 13, Issue 1, January-2025, Available online at: www.ijaresm.com

Flow Chart

Fig 10 before Capacitor Connection

II. SIMULATION
1) Before Capacitor Connection
Low Power Factor: The system has a low power factor due to the inductive nature of the load, causing the current to lag
behind the voltage.

Higher Current Flow: Increased current flow results in higher I²R losses and reduced system efficiency.

Voltage Drops: Significant voltage drops occur, affecting the performance and reliability of electrical equipment.

Overloaded Equipment: Transformers, generators, and cables are under more strain due to the extra current.
A factory operating various electrical equipment, all-consuming reactive power, which leads to a lower power factor A low
power factor means inefficient use of electrical power, resulting in higher losses and increased electricity costs. To address
this, we introduce a capacitor bank into the system. Before installing the capacitors, we perform a simulation to understand
the power factor improvement.

In our simulation, we model the factory's electrical load and calculate the existing power factor, which is typically below
the ideal value of 1.0. This low power factor is due to the inductive loads, such as motors and transformers, which cause a
phase difference between voltage and current. We then introduce capacitors in parallel with these inductive loads. The
capacitors provide leading reactive power, counteracting the lagging reactive power of the inductive loads. As a result, the
overall reactive power demand decreases, and the power factor improves.
Page | 3029
 International Journal of All Research Education and Scientific Methods (IJARESM),
ISSN: 2455-6211, Volume 13, Issue 1, January-2025, Available online at: www.ijaresm.com

By analyzing the simulation results, we observe a significant reduction in reactive power and an increase in the power
factor, closer to the desired value. This improvement leads to more efficient energy usage, lower losses, and potential cost
savings on electricity bills. The simulation demonstrates the positive impact of adding capacitors to the system, highlighting
the importance of power factor correction in industrial and commercial settings.

When a capacitor is connected to a three-phase parallel RLC load in Simulink, it provides reactive power compensation,
which can significantly impact the system's performance. Here's how the system changes after connecting the capacitor.

2) After Capacitor Connection

Improved Power Factor: The capacitor provides leading reactive power, offsetting the lagging reactive power of the
inductive load, which improves the power factor.

Reduced Current Flow: With an improved power factor, the total current drawn from the supply decreases, reducing I²R
losses and improving system efficiency.

Voltage Stabilization: The capacitor helps stabilize voltage levels, ensuring that the voltage remains within acceptable
limits for proper equipment operation.

Reduced Energy Costs: Lower current flow and improved power factor can lead to reduced energy costs and avoidance of
power factor penalties from utility companies.

The same factory after installing a capacitor bank to improve the power factor Initially, the factory's power factor was low,
leading to inefficiencies and higher electricity costs. After introducing capacitors, a simulation shows the improvement in
power factor from 0.89 to 0.95.

In this new scenario, the capacitors provide the necessary leading reactive power to counteract the lagging reactive power
from inductive loads, such as motors and transformers. As a result, the total reactive power demand decreases, leading to an
enhanced power factor. The simulation demonstrates a significant improvement, with the power factor rising to 0.95. This
higher power factor means that the factory's electrical system is using power more efficiently, reducing losses and lowering
electricity bills.

The improved power factor, now closer to the ideal value of 1.0, also has additional benefits. It can extend the life of
electrical equipment, reduce the strain on the power grid, and potentially qualify the factory for utility incentives or rebates.
Overall, the simulation highlights the importance of power factor correction and the positive impact of capacitors in
achieving more efficient energy usage.

Fig 11 after Capacitor Connection

Page | 3030
 International Journal of All Research Education and Scientific Methods (IJARESM),
ISSN: 2455-6211, Volume 13, Issue 1, January-2025, Available online at: www.ijaresm.com

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

This section is crucial for interpreting the findings of your study and explaining their significance. Here’s a structured
approach to present the results and discussion for a project on power factor improvement using capacitor banks:

1. Initial Measurements
Power Factor: Before installing the capacitor banks, the system had an average power factor of 0.8944.

Reactive Power: The initial reactive power demand was measured at 5 kVAR.

Active Power: The active power consumption was consistently around 10 kW.

Voltage Levels: Voltage drops were observed, particularly during peak load times.

2. Post-Installation Measurements
Power Factor: After installing the 5 kVAR capacitor bank, the power factor improved to 0.943.

Reactive Power: The reactive power demand was significantly reduced, leading to a more balanced system.

Active Power: The active power consumption remained steady at 500 kW, indicating no impact on the real power used.

Voltage Levels: Voltage stabilization was observed, with fewer drops during peak loads.

3. Energy Savings and Cost Reduction

Energy Savings: The reduction in reactive power led to lower apparent power demand, resulting in energy savings.

Cost Reduction: Avoidance of power factor penalties and reduced demand charges led to a noticeable decrease in the
electricity bill.

4. Effectiveness of Capacitor Banks

Power Factor Improvement: The use of capacitor banks proved highly effective in improving the power factor from 0.89
to 0.95.

System Efficiency: Improved power factor reduced the overall current in the system, enhancing the efficiency and reducing
I²R losses.

5. Impact on Voltage Levels

Voltage Stabilization: The installation of capacitors helped stabilize voltage levels, reducing fluctuations and ensuring
consistent power delivery.

Equipment Performance: Better voltage regulation led to improved performance and longevity of electrical equipment.

6. Economic Benefits
Cost Savings: The reduction in power factor penalties and demand charges contributed to significant cost savings. This
supports the economic viability of investing in capacitor banks for power factor correction.

Return on Investment (ROI): The initial investment in capacitor banks was recovered within a few months due to the
substantial reduction in electricity costs.

7. Recommendations for Future Work

Regular Monitoring: Implement continuous monitoring systems to ensure the power factor remains optimal as load
conditions change.

Advanced Control Systems: Consider upgrading to APFC systems for automated and precise control of power factor
correction.

Load Management: Implement load management strategies to further enhance system efficiency and reduce peak demand

Page | 3031
 International Journal of All Research Education and Scientific Methods (IJARESM),
ISSN: 2455-6211, Volume 13, Issue 1, January-2025, Available online at: www.ijaresm.com

CONCLUSION

Improving the power factor from 0.8944 to 0.95 significantly enhances the overall efficiency and performance of the
electrical system. This adjustment reduces the reactive power demand, leading to a more balanced and efficient operation of
the substation. As a result, energy losses in the system are minimized, the load-handling capacity is optimized, and the
reliability of the electrical supply is improved. This improvement not only supports better resource utilization but also
ensures the long-term stability and sustainability of the power distribution network. Power factor is improved from 0.8944
to 0.95. The overall operational efficiency of the substation improves, leading to better performance and reliability of the
electrical supply

REFERENCES

[1]. S. M. Samineni, C. S. Labuschagne, and J. H. Pope, “Principles of shunt capacitor bank application and protection,”
in 64th Annual Georgia Tech Protective Relaying Conference, Atlanta, Georgia, May 5–7, 2010
[2]. R. H. Al-Rubayi and H. A. Al-Baidhani, “Voltage Stability Study of the Iraqi Power Grid,” Engineering &
Technology Journal, vol. 30, no. 2, pp. 312-324, 2012.
[3]. O. P. Mahela and S. R. Ola, “Analysis of high voltage shunt capacitor bank on reduced capacity: The case of
RRVPNL power grid,” 2013 Annual IEEE India Conference (INDICON), 2013, pp. 1-6.
[4]. C. F. Chang, “Reconfiguration and capacitor placement for loss reduction of distribution systems by ant colony
search algorithm,” IEEE

Page | 3032