testing active power ?
In an electrical circuit, the active power P is the real power transmitted to loads such as motors, lamps, heaters, computers … The electrical active power is transformed into mechanical power, heat or light.
In a circuit where the applied r.m.s. voltage is Vrms and the circulating r.m.s. current is Irms, the apparent power S is the product Vrms x Irms.
The apparent power is then the basis for electrical equipment rating. One piece of equipment (transformer, cable, switch …) must be designed in relation to the r.m.s. values of voltage and current.
But what is re active power ?
Re active power Q is present when voltage and current are not in phase. In this situation, the current can be split up into two components:
- one component which is in phase with the voltage, called active current and which is the sole responsible for transmission of active power,
- one component which is in quadrature, called reactive current and which is commonly considered as the generator of flux in ferromagnetic circuits such as transformers, motors, ballasts.
The problem with the reactive power is that it is impossible to manage without it, and it is resulting in an increase of equipment rating.
It can be compared to the foam in a glass of beer : it is not the real stuff, but there is no way to avoid it and the glass must be oversized unless you’ll have overflow.
to be read with moderation…
Jacques Schonek
what a refreshing way to explain it. Thanks a lot, Jacques !
As an electrical engineer, this is the best explanation I’ve ever heard.
And a better way to appreciate beer!!!
nice illustration. it is very easy to understand
Amazing! I will use it for internal communication presentation now!
nice post,
http://mypq.epri.com/tools/correction.asp
Very simple yet easy to understand. Explains even elementary students can understand. “ACTIVE POWER” is only the same as “REAL POWER.” FYI only.
this is the best logical explanation i have ever heard about power factor
Exellent example.i will use this same example for my future presentations.lot of thanks..
Simply superb, a creative way of explaining it, i’ll definitely use this illustration in my interviews in future… thanks
Very nice example of Beer is given to understand Active & Reactive Power for Electrical Maintenance Team
Most of the website explaining in a same way and I guest, this is the best way to describe the Reactive Power.
thank you everyone for all these comments !
* these are for Jacques Schoneck our author of the month, see our 1st newsletter …
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the moderator
Illustration is so easy and and nice that every one can understand.
just best
This illustration is real educative and simple to get the concept of power in electrical engineering. it can be easily understood by any class of people. Bravo to Jacques.
this is the best one for everybody.
There are no words for tstimonial of example.Jacques live 100 & 100 years to give us such examples
it is a different kind of presentation…nice, i liked it!!!
..a good visual aid, it’s always helpful! Thanks.
easiest way to understand the difference between active & reactive power
nice explanation…everyone can understand easily..
who donot hv electrical knowledge also……thank u
Super! Its way to understand everyone easily. I need to know KVA calculation.
This is one of good lesson with great example