Synchronous Condenser

When a synchronous motor operates at no-load and overexcited then it’s called a synchronous condenser. Under such condition, it provides leading current and works like a capacitor. When a synchronous condenser is connected across supply voltage (i.e., in parallel) then it draws leading current and partially eliminates the reactive component and this way, power factor is improved. Generally, synchronous condenser is used to improve the power factor in large industries.

 

                 

Advantages:

1. Long life (almost 25 years)

2. High Reliability

3. Step-less adjustment of power factor.

4. No generation of harmonics of maintenance 

5. The faults can be removed easily

6. It’s not affected by harmonics.

7. Require Low maintenance (only periodic bearing greasing is necessary)

 

Disadvantages:

1. It is expensive (maintenance cost is also high) and therefore mostly used by large power users.

2. An auxiliary device has to be used for this operation because synchronous motor has no self starting torque

3. It produces noise