Power Factor Correction Circuit: Principles and Implementation Techniques

This article discusses power factor correction circuits. Specifically, a power factor correction circuit is an electronic circuit designed to improve the power factor of power supplies, thereby reducing their pollution impact on the electrical grid. When the power factor is low, the power supply requires increased current, leading to potential grid overload conditions. Consequently, power factor correction circuits play a vital role in modern power systems. These circuits typically incorporate capacitors and inductors to enhance the power factor through reactive power compensation. Implementation often involves control algorithms that monitor input current waveforms and adjust switching components to maintain phase alignment with voltage. In this article, we will thoroughly examine the operational principles and applications of power factor correction circuits, while introducing practical circuit design techniques including component sizing calculations, feedback control loop design, and efficiency optimization methods for various load conditions.