RCCSx Power Factor Reactive Current Controlled Switch

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The RCCSx power factor reactive current controlled switch dynamically compensates low inductive power factor lines by switching capacitors in and out of the single or three-phase line. The RCCSx is a fully protected, digitally-controlled and highly integrated unit. It is very simple to install and adaptable to all power factor capacitor compensation applications. The only other parts required to form a complete power factor correction system are a current transformer and the compensating capacitor(s).
 

RCCS1 Single power factor reactive current controlled switch

RCCS3 Triple power factor reactive current controlled switch

The RCCSx switches measure the reactive current in a single- or three- phase system and activate one (RCCS1) or three (RCCS3) 8 A solid state switches to connect compensating capacitors in and out of the line. The current is detected with a current transformer (CT) in one of the phase lines and the sampling period is selectable from 4 to 32 seconds.

The RCCSx fast response make them particularly suitable for fast dynamic compensation of frequently started, low-duty or variable loads such as:

• Lifts,
• Conveyors,
• Compressors,
• Pumps and
• Fans.

The RCCSx are designed for standard European and US, single- and three-phase, 50-60 Hz lines. Characterizing features are as follows:

• No neutral connection for the three-phase models,
• Phase current detection with a standard 5 A secondary current transformer,
• Reactive current activation range of 0.3 - 3 Ar (measured at the current transformer secondary) ensures versatile, reliable and robust operation,
• Phase sensitive detection measures the reactive current without being affected by noise and harmonics in the line,
• Overheat protected solid state relays (SSRs) switch the 8 A (<5 kVAr) compensating capacitors in and out of the line at every sampling instant,
• Zero crossing type SSRs ensure that each capacitor is switched in when the line voltage equals the capacitor voltage thus eliminating capacitor inrush current and extending capacitor service life,
• Capacitor switch bypass relays minimize SSR losses,
• DIP switch selectable sampling time of 4, 8, 16, and 32 seconds,
• DIP switch selectable forced state turns each capacitor switch on or off regardless of current input enabling individual power circuit testing or orderly system disconnection,
• Indicating LEDs show the power supply state, each switch activation status and the capacitive power factor condition (or a reverse connected current transformer),
• Compensating capacitor bleed resistors ensure charge-free capacitors after shut-down,
• Isolated control circuit enhances safety and noise immunity,
• Protection against line overvoltages, faults and power circuit overheating.

Each capacitor switch is activated when the detected reactive current is above the respective set value as determined at the activation potentiometer. Switch activation/deactivation happens at every sampling instant as set at the DIP switch.

During normal operation each "Switch ON" LED indicates the on or off condition of the relevant switch. In the event of its power circuit overheating, the switch is deactivated and the "Switch ON" LED flashes until power is removed. Overheating is usually the result of switch bypass relay failure and in such a case the worn relay is easily removed from its socket and replaced.

Our power factor related products are summarized here with sampling/small quantities being available for online purchase here.