QuestionJune 8, 2025

9. What effect does the power factor of a motor have on the branch circuit supplying power to the motor?

9. What effect does the power factor of a motor have on the branch circuit supplying power to the motor?
9. What effect does the power factor of a motor have on the branch circuit supplying power to the motor?

Solution
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Answer

The power factor affects the current, efficiency, and cost of the branch circuit supplying power to the motor. Explanation 1. Define Power Factor Power factor (PF) is the ratio of real power (kW) to apparent power (kVA). It indicates how effectively electrical power is being converted into useful work output. 2. Impact on Current A lower power factor means more current is required to deliver the same amount of real power. **I = \frac{P}{V \cdot PF}** where ( I ) is current, ( P ) is power, and ( V ) is voltage. 3. Effect on Circuit Components Higher current due to low power factor increases losses in conductors, requiring larger wires and transformers, leading to higher costs. 4. Voltage Drop Increased current can cause greater voltage drops across the circuit, affecting motor performance. 5. Efficiency and Costs Low power factor reduces system efficiency and increases energy costs due to higher demand charges from utilities.

Explanation

1. Define Power Factor<br /> Power factor (PF) is the ratio of real power (kW) to apparent power (kVA). It indicates how effectively electrical power is being converted into useful work output.<br /><br />2. Impact on Current<br /> A lower power factor means more current is required to deliver the same amount of real power. **I = \frac{P}{V \cdot PF}** where ( I ) is current, ( P ) is power, and ( V ) is voltage.<br /><br />3. Effect on Circuit Components<br /> Higher current due to low power factor increases losses in conductors, requiring larger wires and transformers, leading to higher costs.<br /><br />4. Voltage Drop<br /> Increased current can cause greater voltage drops across the circuit, affecting motor performance.<br /><br />5. Efficiency and Costs<br /> Low power factor reduces system efficiency and increases energy costs due to higher demand charges from utilities.
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