Power Factor Correction Calculator
Estimate the capacitive reactive-power correction needed to raise a steady load’s lagging displacement power factor.
Enter measured or design values
Estimated correction
Displacement power factor model for a steady load.
About this calculator
Estimate the capacitive reactive-power correction needed to raise a steady load’s lagging displacement power factor.
This is a preliminary kvar estimate. It does not select capacitor voltage, connection, switching, fuse, or controller ratings.
Method and assumptions
For real power P and power factor PF, reactive power Q = P × tan(arccos(PF)). Required correction is initial Q minus target Q; the result is reported as a kvar magnitude.
Enter values measured or specified for the same load, system, and operating condition. These simplified calculations do not model harmonics, transient behavior, or equipment-specific acceptance limits.
FAQs
Does this result establish compliance or equipment acceptance?
No. It is a calculation or screening metric. Apply the equipment manufacturer criteria, project requirements, and locally applicable standards.
Which voltage readings should I enter?
For the voltage screen, enter all three RMS line-to-line readings measured at the same operating condition and point in the system.
Sources
Power triangle and maximum-deviation definitions as stated in the method above. Confirm manufacturer-specific criteria before applying results.