# What is the use of a Reactor in Power Systems?

**URL:** <https://forumautomation.com/t/what-is-the-use-of-a-reactor-in-power-systems/14364>\
**Category:** Electrical\
**Tags:** power-sys\
**Created:** [September 8, 2026, 10:55am UTC](https://forumautomation.com/t/what-is-the-use-of-a-reactor-in-power-systems/14364 "2026-09-08T10:55:38Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![Rabert](https://forumautomation.com/user_avatar/forumautomation.com/rabert/32/6784_2.png) [@Rabert](https://forumautomation.com/u/Rabert)\
**Post date:** [September 8, 2026, 10:55am UTC](https://forumautomation.com/t/what-is-the-use-of-a-reactor-in-power-systems/14364/1 "2026-09-08T10:55:38Z")

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A **[reactor in a power system](https://forumelectrical.com/reactor-switching-voltage-drop-calculator/)** is an inductive device used to control current, limit fault levels, regulate voltage, and manage reactive power in electrical networks.

It introduces **inductive reactance** into the circuit, thereby restricting the flow of current.

Reactors are commonly used as **current-limiting reactors, shunt reactors, series reactors, and neutral grounding reactors**.

Shunt reactors are mainly installed in high-voltage transmission systems to absorb excess reactive power and control overvoltage caused by lightly loaded or long transmission lines, while series reactors are used to limit short-circuit current and reduce switching transients.

 ![3](https://cdn.forumautomation.com/original/2X/e/e739147cc4e0f5f2a8a5e43dc5864918850c902d.jpeg)

By providing controlled inductive reactance, reactors help improve **system stability, voltage regulation, equipment protection, and overall power-system reliability**.