A three phase real-time optimal reactive power compensator

The use of force-commutated current source converter to compensate for the reactive current in distribution networks is described. A 16-b microcomputer controls the compensator to optimize the current drawn from the mains. Thus, the application of a reactive power compensator (RPC) to a load may allow addition of new loads to existing feeders or substations. It can provide for both lagging and leading reactive power, although the software in the present form mainly caters to lagging power factor loads. This RPC is suited to dynamic compensation of balanced three-phase loads.