Why Choose the Lovato BFK15000A048 Contactor for Power Factor Correction?
The Lovato BFK15000A048 is a specialised three-pole contactor for power factor correction (PFC) capacitor switching, designed to safely and reliably connect capacitor banks in industrial electrical installations. As part of the Lovato BFK150 series, it incorporates current-limiting resistors specifically intended to manage the severe inrush currents associated with capacitor energisation.
The BFK15000A048 provides a maximum IEC capacitor-switching rating of 100 kvar at 400 V, 50 Hz. Its three normally open main contacts provide three-phase capacitor-bank switching, while the dedicated pre-charge arrangement limits the initial charging current before the main contacts complete the connection.
With a 48 V AC 50/60 Hz control coil, the BFK15000A048 is suitable for automatic power factor correction panels using a 48 V AC control supply. Its robust construction, screw-connected power terminals and flexible screw or 35 mm DIN rail mounting make it well suited to professional PFC panels, switchboards and industrial reactive-power compensation systems.
Key Advantages
- Purpose-designed contactor for power factor correction capacitor switching.
- Maximum IEC capacitor rating of 100 kvar at 400 V, 50 Hz.
- 48 V AC 50/60 Hz control coil for industrial control circuits.
- Includes current-limiting resistors to manage capacitor energisation inrush current.
- Three normally open main contacts for three-phase capacitor-bank switching.
- Flexible screw or 35 mm DIN rail mounting for PFC panel installation.
Key Features
- Lovato BFK150 capacitor contactor series.
- Designed specifically for power factor correction (PFC).
- 100 kvar maximum IEC operational power at 400 V, 50 Hz.
- Three normally open main contacts.
- 48 V AC control coil.
- 50/60 Hz coil frequency.
- Integrated current-limiting resistors for capacitor switching.
- IP20 front protection at the power terminals.
- Long 15,000,000-cycle mechanical life.
Reliable Capacitor Switching for Power Factor Correction
Power factor correction capacitor banks can draw very high transient currents when energised. The Lovato BFK15000A048 is specifically designed for this demanding switching duty and incorporates current-limiting resistors that reduce the initial capacitor charging current, helping minimise electrical stress on the main contacts and associated equipment.
This specialised switching arrangement makes the BFK15000A048 suitable for automatic PFC systems where capacitor stages are repeatedly connected and disconnected according to reactive-power demand. Its 100 kvar rating at 400 V, three-pole configuration and 48 V AC coil provide a practical solution for high-capacity industrial capacitor-bank installations.
Typical Applications
- Automatic power factor correction panels.
- Industrial capacitor-bank switching systems.
- Reactive-power compensation equipment.
- Manufacturing plants with substantial inductive loads.
- Industrial and commercial electrical distribution systems.
- Switchboards incorporating stepped capacitor banks.
