Power factor correction: Control unit for parallel operation

TDK Corporation presents the new EPCOS VIP-3-TP control unit, which facilitates the intelligent coupling of three reactive power compensation systems. The parallel operation of multiple systems on different feed-in transformers necessitates this coupling, as the corresponding sections of the grid may also be coupled temporarily. The reciprocal influence of the power factor correction systems in such coupled grid sections causes a higher number of switching operations, which have a harmful effect on the power factor correction elements. The more systems that are working in parallel, the harder it is to control the undesirable effects.

In conjunction with an EPCOS BR7000-I/S485 power factor controller, the new VIP-3-TP touch panel (B44066R1703E230) permits the completely non-retroactive parallel operation of systems with three feed-ins and coupling switches. At the same time, the VIP-3-TP enables symmetrization and the visualization of the measured values.

Main features and benefits

• Intelligent coupling of three reactive power compensation systems
• Non-retroactive parallel operation of systems

Further information on the products can be found under www.epcos.com/pfc_controllers

About TDK Corporation

TDK Corporation is a leading electronics company based in Tokyo, Japan. It was established in 1935 to commercialize ferrite, a key material in electronic and magnetic products. TDK's portfolio includes electronic components, modules and systems* marketed under the product brands TDK and EPCOS, power supplies, magnetic application products as well as energy devices, flash memory application devices, and others. TDK focuses on demanding markets in the areas of information and communication technology and consumer, automotive and industrial electronics. The company has a network of design and manufacturing locations and sales offices in Asia, Europe, and in North and South America. In fiscal 2016, TDK posted total sales of USD 10.2 billion and employed about 92,000 people worldwide.

* The product portfolio includes ceramic, aluminum electrolytic and film capacitors, ferrites, inductors, high-frequency components such as surface acoustic wave (SAW) filter products and modules, piezo and protection components, and sensors.