AUTOMATIC POWER FACTOR COMPENSATION

(APFC) OVER GSM

@ CREATIVITY THINK (9483175986/9742385601 )

 ABSTRACT
This project proposes an Automatic Power Factor Correction (APFC)
system utilizing a GSM module for industrial applications. In modern industries,
the demand for energy has surged, leading to increased power consumption and
a heightened need for efficient energy utilization. One crucial aspect of energy
efficiency is maintaining a high power factor to minimize wastage and avoid
penalties from utility providers. The proposed APFC system aims to address this
challenge by automatically adjusting the power factor of single-phase electricity
using capacitor switching. The system continuously monitors the power factor
and activates capacitors as necessary to optimize energy utilization. Key
components of the system include a microcontroller, current and voltage sensors,
relays, and shunt capacitors.
Additionally, a GSM module is integrated into the system to provide real-
time alerts to users regarding power factor deviations and excessive usage of
inductive loads. This feature enables proactive management of energy efficiency
and helps industrial units avoid penalties associated with poor power factor.

 INTRODUCTION
In today's rapidly evolving industrial landscape, the demand for energy
continues to escalate, driven by the expansion of industrial activities. This surge
in energy consumption necessitates a concerted effort to enhance energy
efficiency and minimize wastage. One critical aspect of energy optimization is
the management of power factor, which directly impacts the utilization of
electrical power.
Power factor is a measure of how effectively electrical power is being
utilized in a system. A low power factor indicates inefficient energy usage,
leading to increased current flow and voltage drop. This inefficiency results in
higher energy consumption, increased costs, and potential penalties from utility
providers. Therefore, ensuring a high power factor is essential for maximizing
energy efficiency and minimizing operational expenses. The proposed project
aims to address the challenge of power factor management in industrial settings
through the development of an Automatic Power Factor Correction (APFC)

CREATIVITY THINK (9483175986/9742385601 )

system. This system employs capacitor switching to dynamically adjust the power
factor, thereby optimizing energy utilization and reducing wastage.
In addition to capacitor switching, the project incorporates the integration of a
GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) module to enhance the
functionality and usability of the APFC system. The GSM module serves as a
communication interface, enabling remote monitoring and control of the APFC
system. This allows users to receive real-time alerts and notifications regarding
power factor deviations and excessive usage of inductive loads, regardless of their
location. By integrating the GSM module, the APFC system becomes more
versatile and adaptable to the needs of modern industrial environments. Users can
remotely monitor the performance of the system, receive proactive alerts, and
take timely actions to optimize energy efficiency and mitigate potential penalties
from utility providers.

 PROJECT OBJECTIVES

1. Develop an Automatic Power Factor Correction (APFC) system utilizing

capacitor switching for dynamic power factor adjustment.
2. Integrate a GSM module for remote monitoring and alerting users about power
factor deviations and excessive usage of inductive loads.
3. Implement real-time monitoring and control using current and voltage sensors
to optimize energy utilization.
4. Aim to optimize energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and mitigate
penalties associated with poor power factor.
5. Provide a user-friendly interface for easy operation and management of the
APFC system.
6. Ensure seamless integration of hardware and software components for
efficient and reliable operation.
7. Design the system with scalability and adaptability to meet evolving industrial
needs.
8. Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations for electrical
systems and energy efficiency.

CREATIVITY THINK (9483175986/9742385601 )

 BLOCK DAIGRAM

 WORKING OF THE PROJECT

In the proposed system, the working begins with continuous monitoring
of voltage and current levels using dedicated sensors, ensuring real-time feedback
on power consumption. The microcontroller then computes the power factor by
analyzing these measured values, quantifying the efficiency of electrical power
utilization. This calculated power factor is subsequently compared against
predefined thresholds, allowing the system to detect deviations indicative of
inefficient energy usage. Upon identifying a power factor below the set threshold,
the microcontroller initiates corrective measures by activating relays to
incorporate shunt capacitors into the circuit. These capacitors counteract the
reactive power produced by inductive loads, thereby enhancing the power factor
and optimizing energy utilization. Simultaneously, the integrated GSM module
plays a pivotal role in monitoring system status. It continually assesses power
factor values and detects any anomalies or excessive inductive load usage. When
such irregularities are identified, the GSM module promptly dispatches alerts to
users via SMS, ensuring timely intervention and proactive management of energy
efficiency. Users can seamlessly interact with the system through a user-friendly
interface comprising push buttons and an LCD display. This interface enables
real-time access to power factor status updates and facilitates responsive actions
to mitigate energy inefficiencies.
CREATIVITY THINK (9483175986/9742385601 )
HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS  SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS
1. Arduino Uno 1. Eagle
2. GSM module
2. Proteus
2. Voltage Regulator
3. Arduino id
3. Transformer
4. Rectifier
5. Filter
6. Current Transformer
7. Shunt Capacitor
8. GSM Module
9. Relay
10. Relay Driver
11. Push Buttons
12. LCD Display
13. LM339
14. Inductive Load
15. LED
16. Diodes (1N4007 / 1N4148)
17. Resistors
18. Capacitors

CREATIVITY THINK (9483175986/9742385601 )

 ADVANTAGES OF THE PROJECT

1. Enhanced energy efficiency through dynamic power factor correction.

2. Cost savings by minimizing penalties associated with poor power factor.
3. Remote monitoring and proactive management of energy usage.
4. Increased equipment lifespan and reduced maintenance costs.
5. Compliance with regulatory standards and avoidance of legal implications.
6. User-friendly interface for easy access to power factor status.
7. Scalability and adaptability to meet evolving industrial needs.

 APPLICATIONS OF THE PROJECT

1. Industrial manufacturing for optimizing energy usage and reducing operational

costs.
2. Commercial buildings to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability.
3. Data centers for cost savings and improved reliability.
4. Renewable energy systems for grid stability and maximum energy utilization.
5. Telecommunication towers for reliable operation and minimized downtime.
6. Mining operations to reduce operational costs and environmental impact.
7. Utilities and power plants for improved grid stability and energy efficiency.
8. Commercial and residential complexes for sustainable energy management and
reduced electricity bills.

CREATIVITY THINK (9483175986/9742385601 )