Posted on 11th Dec 2023
A line reactor, also known as an input reactor or line choke, is an electrical device used in power distribution systems and motor drive applications. It is typically installed on the input side of a variable frequency drive (VFD) or other power electronics to provide various benefits. CM Industry Supply Automation - Lenze Drive and Keb Drive Supplier share some reasons why you might use a line reactor:
Line reactors help protect sensitive electronic equipment, such as VFDs, from voltage spikes and surges in the power supply. They can absorb and reduce the magnitude of these transient voltage events, preventing damage to the connected devices.
Line reactors limit the rate of rise of current during motor starting or inrush conditions. This helps prevent excessive current draw, reduces stress on the power supply, and minimizes the impact on other connected equipment.
Power electronic devices like VFDs can introduce harmonic currents into the power system. Line reactors help mitigate harmonic distortion by smoothing out the current waveform, which can be beneficial in complying with power quality standards and regulations. Reduced harmonic distortion also decreases the risk of overheating in motors and transformers.
Line reactors can improve the power factor of the system by reducing the reactive power drawn by the load. This improvement in power factor contributes to more efficient power usage and can potentially lead to cost savings, especially in facilities where utilities charge based on both active (real) power and reactive power.
Line reactors act as filters, attenuating electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio-frequency interference (RFI) generated by the connected equipment. This helps maintain a cleaner power supply and reduces the risk of interference with other electronic devices in the vicinity.
In motor drive applications, line reactors protect the motor by limiting the current and reducing voltage transients. This can extend the lifespan of the motor and reduce maintenance costs.
Some industrial and utility standards recommend or require the use of line reactors to ensure that power systems and equipment meet certain performance and safety criteria.
Line reactors can help stabilize voltage and frequency in the power system, particularly in situations where there are rapid changes in load. This stability can improve the overall reliability and performance of the connected equipment.
According to CM Industry Supply Automation - Lenze Drive and Keb F5 Drive Supplier, the use of line reactors provides benefits such as protection against voltage spikes and surges, current limiting during motor starting, harmonic mitigation, improved power factor, EMI/RFI filtering, motor protection, and compliance with standards. The specific advantages will depend on the application and the characteristics of the power system in which the line reactor is installed.