Description

PFC2-30kVAR | 3-Phase 50A Power Factor Correction Capacitor Switch | 415V

The PFC2-30kVAR is a high-performance 3-phase Power Factor Correction (PFC) capacitor switch designed to deliver reliable, low-inrush switching of capacitive loads in industrial electrical systems. Rated at 30kVAR (50A) on a 415V three-phase supply, it uses advanced two-leg (2/3rds) control technology to optimise capacitor switching while reducing mechanical wear and electrical stress.

Unlike conventional contactor-based systems, the PFC2-30kVAR uses solid-state switching technology to eliminate contact arcing, minimise inrush current, and enable rapid, repetitive capacitor bank switching. The controller features automatic over-temperature protection, high-speed semiconductor fuse protection, LED status indicators, and a voltage-free alarm relay for reliable operation and system monitoring.

Ideal for industrial Power Factor Correction installations, the PFC2-30kVAR helps improve electrical efficiency, reduce reactive power charges, and extend the life of capacitor banks.

Key Features

• 30kVAR three-phase capacitor switching
• 50A current rating
• Two-leg (2/3rds) control technology
• Designed for Power Factor Correction (PFC)
• Low inrush current switching
• Solid-state switching with no mechanical contacts
• Automatic over-temperature protection
• High-speed semiconductor fuse protection
• Voltage-free alarm relay output
• LED power, signal and fault indicators
• Controlled capacitor discharge indication
• Compact enclosed panel-mount design
• Suitable for capacitor banks with or without detuning chokes
• IP20 protection

Technical Specifications

Electrical

• Power rating: 30kVAR
• Current rating: 50A
• Supply voltage: 415V RMS ±10%
• Frequency: 50/60Hz

External DC Supply

• 24V DC
• 250mA
• Required only when fuse failure monitoring is used

Control Input

• Control signal:
  • 8–24V DC
• Compatible with:
  • Common 0V
  • Common +VE
  • Open collector
  • Volt-free contact

Alarm Relay

• Voltage-free relay contacts
• Rating: 125V AC @ 2A

LED Status Indicators

• Green: DC Power ON
• Orange: Signal Enabled
• Red: Fault
• Red/Orange: Capacitors Discharging

Protection Features

Over-Temperature Protection

• Trip temperature: 90°C ±1°C
• Automatic reset: 85°C ±1°C

Phase Loss / Fuse Failure: Alternating red and orange LED indication

Sensor Loss Detection: Equal interval flashing LED

Fault Status: Continuous 1.5-second flashing indication

Cooling

• Passive heatsink cooling
• No cooling fan required on the 30kVAR model

Cable Connections

Power

• Supply: 16mm² rising clamp terminal
• Load: 16mm² rising clamp terminal
• Earth: 16mm² rising clamp terminal

Signal

• Alarm relay: 2.5mm² rising clamp terminal
• Control signal: 2.5mm² rising clamp terminal

Terminal Torque: 2.5Nm (Power terminals)

Protection: IP20

Fuse Protection: 80ET (80A), High-Speed Semiconductor Fuse or equivalent

Control Circuit Protection: F1A control circuit protection fuse (PCB mounted)

Environmental

Maximum operating temperature: 65°C

Mechanical

Dimensions: 205mm (D) x 155mm (W) x 120mm (H)

Mounting: 4 × 4.5mm keyhole fixing slots

Fixing centres: 140mm × 140mm

Weight: 3.0kg

Applications

The PFC2-30kVAR is designed for 3-wire, three-phase capacitor banks used in industrial Power Factor Correction systems.

Typical applications include:

• Automatic capacitor banks
• Industrial Power Factor Correction (PFC)
• Manufacturing plants
• Electrical distribution systems
• Welding plants
• Crane systems
• Lift installations
• Wind turbines
• Renewable energy systems
• Heavy industrial machinery
• High-power capacitive loads
• Commercial electrical installations

Benefits

• Improves power factor correction efficiency
• Reduces capacitor inrush current
• Eliminates contactor wear and electrical arcing
• Enables rapid and repetitive switching
• Reduces maintenance costs
• Improves electrical system efficiency
• Minimises flicker and RFI
• Extends capacitor bank service life
• Reliable solid-state performance
• Suitable for demanding industrial environments

Safety Information

Warning:

• Isolate the electrical supply before removing the cover.
• The enclosure may become hot during operation.
• Do not cover or obstruct ventilation openings.
• Installation should only be performed by suitably qualified personnel.

 Why Choose the PFC2 Power Factor Controller?

The PFC2 Series delivers efficient power factor correction, reduced inrush current, and seamless switching for high-power applications. With advanced thermal protection, fault monitoring, and robust semiconductor fuses, these controllers ensure long-term reliability and energy efficiency.

Optimise your power system today with the PFC2 Power Factor Switch

**The four models in this series include the 30kVAR, 50kVAR, 80kVAR and the 100kVAR models, all of which are fan cooled.