Power Factor Issues [RE-wrenches]

[Charlie Robb, Element Engineering]

Allan,

In answer to (1), here are a couple of easy ways, both have worked for me:

a) Use a power factor transducer and appropriate current transformer.
Disadvantage is that it will have a specific voltage and current range, so
isn't good as a general test tool.

b) Use an oscilloscope and clamp-on current transducer to compare current
and voltage waveforms. Fluke scopemeters have a phase angle function which
is great (just take the cosine to give PF). Any old two-channel scope can do
it though - use a small (preferrably toroidal) transformer to give <5V ac
input signal from the a.c. mains (and isolation). Estimate the phase
difference between the voltage and current sine waves in degrees and
calculate the cosine.

Let us know how you get on with 2,3 and 4!

Cheers
Charlie

Charlie Robb
Element Engineering

77 Society Road
South Queensferry
Edinburgh
EH30 9XP      UK

Tel: 0131 331 5835
Fax: 0131 331 5848
Mobile: 07887 991866

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