If the power factor is leading in the power distribution, that indicates that the load or device being powered is of a capacitive nature and that the waveform of the current precedes that of the voltage. It indicates that the load is pulling reactive power (KVAr) from the system, and then sending it back to the source.
The following is a list of some of the outcomes or impacts that may be caused by a (leading) power factor in power distribution:
1). Improved system voltage
2). Reduced line losses
3). Improved efficiency
4). Increased system capacity
5). Reduced voltage drops
1). Improved system voltage
The reactive power demand & voltage drop that are induced by inductive loads may be partially mitigated with the assistance of leading power factor. The addition of capacitive loads contributes to an increase in the voltage levels of the system while helping to keep those levels within acceptable limits.
2). Reduced line losses
Inductive loads’ requirement for reactive power may be partially compensated by the contribution of capacitive loads, which provide the system with reactive power. Because of this compensation, the total reactive power flows in the system are decreased, which in turn results in a reduction in the line losses.
3). Improved efficiency
When there are fewer line losses, the overall efficiency of the system is increased. The distribution system is able to properly use the available power, which results in energy savings. This is made possible by the management of the power factor and the reduction of reactive power flow.
4). Increased system capacity
The reactive power consumption of inductive loads may be partly mitigated by the capacitive load’s power requirement. Because of this, capacity on the distribution network may be released, making it possible to connect new loads without exceeding the capabilities of the equipment.
5). Reduced voltage drops
By balancing for the voltage drop carried on by inductive loads, leading power factor makes it possible to reduce the severity of voltage drop problems. Because of this, voltage levels at customer premises are guaranteed to stay below permissible ranges, hence eliminating performance difficulties with electrical equipment.
It is important to remember that while a power factor that is leading might have its advantages, having a power factor that is leading to an extreme degree can have its own set of problems, such as overvoltage problems. Therefore, power factor correction & management methods are used so that the power factor may be kept within an ideal range for the purpose of ensuring that power distribution is both efficient and dependable.