Analyzing power factor correction methods and realizing an application circuit

Nowadays, as a result of increasing use of semiconductors and power electronics devices, current harmonics? effects on the electrical systems have become intolerable. Therefore, it has become essential problem to reduce these harmonic currents, which effect negatively the energy system quality, and shaping the current actively to achieve a good power factor. In this study, first of all, general information about harmonics, which causes measurement errors, overheating of motor windings and switchs etc., and most common harmonic sources have been given. After that, relation between harmonics and power factor has been mentioned and converters, one of harmonic sources, have been explained and analyzed. Passive and active power factor correction techniques have been mentioned, too. Finally, active current shaping circuits have been mentioned and an active power factor correction application circuit has been realized and results have been analyzed. Keywords : Power factor, power factor correction, harmonics, energy quality, current shaping.