Description

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

The PFC2-50kVAR is a high-performance 3-phase Power Factor Correction (PFC) capacitor switch designed for efficient switching of capacitive loads in industrial electrical systems. Rated at 50kVAR (75A) on a 415V three-phase supply, it utilises advanced two-leg (2/3rds) control technology to minimise capacitor inrush current while providing fast, reliable, and maintenance-free solid-state switching.

Unlike conventional contactor-based capacitor switching, the PFC2-50kVAR eliminates mechanical contact wear, electrical arcing, and excessive inrush currents, making it ideal for applications requiring rapid capacitor bank switching. The controller incorporates automatic over-temperature protection, integrated semiconductor fuse protection, fan-assisted cooling, LED status indicators, and a voltage-free alarm relay for comprehensive system monitoring.

Designed for demanding industrial environments, the PFC2-50kVAR improves power factor, reduces reactive power charges, enhances electrical efficiency, and extends the life of capacitor banks.

Key Features

• 50kVAR three-phase capacitor switching
• 75A 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
• Integrated high-speed semiconductor fuses
• 24V DC fan cooling
• Voltage-free alarm relay
• LED power, signal and fault indication
• 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: 50kVAR
• Current rating: 75A
• 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

• Integrated 24V DC cooling fan
• Fan fitted as standard on 50kVAR model
• Fan activation temperature: Approximately 55°C

Cable Connections

Power

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

Signal

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

Terminal Torque

• 2.5Nm
• (Power terminals)

Protection

• IP20

Fuse Protection

• 100ET (100A)
• High-Speed Semiconductor Fuse or equivalent

Control Circuit Protection

• F1A PCB control fuse

Environmental

• Maximum operating temperature: 65°C

Mechanical

Dimensions: 250mm (D) x 155mm (W) x 120mm (H)

Mounting

• 4 × 4.5mm keyhole fixing slots
• Fixing centres: 140mm × 140mm

Weight: 3.4kg

Applications

The PFC2-50kVAR 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 installations
• Heavy industrial machinery
• High-power capacitive loads
• Commercial electrical installations

Benefits

• Optimises power factor correction
• Dramatically reduces capacitor inrush current
• Eliminates contactor wear and electrical arcing
• Enables rapid and repetitive switching
• Reduces maintenance costs
• Improves electrical efficiency
• Minimises electrical flicker and RFI
• Extends capacitor bank service life
• Reliable solid-state operation
• Ideal for demanding industrial applications

Safety Information

Warning:

• Isolate the electrical supply before removing the cover.
• The enclosure may become hot during operation.
• Do not cover ventilation openings.
• Installation should only be carried out 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.