Alternating Current: Reacance, Impedance & Power Factor


Description:

Calculation of the different resistance introduced in an ac circuit by capacitors, inductors, and resistors and the concept of power factor

Learning Outcome:

Upon the completion of this module, you will be able to:

  1. Calculate the capacitive reactance of a circuit, given the value of the capacitor, frequency, and voltage.
  2. Describe the relation between capacitive reactance and frequency.
  3. Calculate the inductive reactance of a circuit, given the value of the inductor, frequency, and voltage.
  4. Describe the relation between inductive reactance and frequency.
  5. Calculate the impedance of a circuit, given the values of the inductive and capacitive reactance, and the resistance.
  6. Explain the term "Power Factor."
  7. Define "apparent" power and the "true" or "actual" power of a circuit.
  8. Calculate the power factor.
  9. Explain three-phase power.

Topic 1: Reactance

  • Topic Introduction and Objectives
  • Three Forms of Reactance
  • Capacitive Reactance: Equation
  • Calculating Capacitive Reactance: Example
  • Calculating Reactance at Higher Frequency
  • Inductive Reactance: Equation
  • Calculating Inductive Reactance: Example
  • Calculating Inductive Reactance at Higher Frequency
  • Check-Point Question
  • Topic Summary

Topic 2: Impedance

  • Topic Introduction and Objectives
  • Impedance: Equation
  • Calculating Impedance
  • Calculating Impedance for an AC Solenoid Coil
  • Check-Point Question
  • Topic Summary

Topic 3: What Is Power Factor?

  • Topic Introduction and Objectives
  • Apparent Power Versus Actual Power
  • The Iron Effect
  • Topic Summary

Topic 4: High and Low Power Factors

  • Topic Introduction and Objectives
  • Ratio of Actual Power to Apparent Power
  • Three Reasons Low Power Factor is Costly
  • Understanding Apparent Power and Actual Power
  • Calculating Power Factor Percentage
  • Check-Point Question
  • Topic Summary

Topic 5: Three-Phase Power

  • Topic Introduction and Objectives
  • Sine Waves for Three-Phase Circuit
  • Check-Point Question
  • Topic Summary
  • Assessment