Simple Explanation

Power-factor correction improves the efficiency of electrical systems by making the current match the voltage in shape and phase.

Concise Technical Definition

Power-factor correction (PFC) reduces phase errors and improves the waveform shape of electrical current in power supplies. The PFC circuitry makes the electrical load appear more resistive, aligning the input current wave shape and phase with the input voltage, resulting in a power factor closer to unity (1).

Layman-Friendly Analogy

It’s like making sure water flows smoothly through pipes, without any bottlenecks. PFC ensures that the electrical current flows as efficiently as possible, matching the natural rhythm of the electrical voltage.

Industry Usage Summary

In electrical systems, especially in power supplies for devices like amplifiers, power-factor correction is crucial for improving efficiency and reducing power loss. PFC is used to ensure that the power supply uses electrical power more effectively by minimizing discrepancies between the voltage and current waveforms, reducing harmonic distortion, and enhancing overall system performance.

Engineering Shortcut

Circuitry designed to align the phase and shape of the current with the input voltage, improving efficiency.

Full Technical Explanation

Power-factor correction (PFC) involves improving the phase relationship and waveform shape of the current so that it matches the input voltage in an AC electrical system. The power factor (PF) is a value between 0 and 1, where a value of 1 (unity) means the input current and voltage are perfectly in-phase and sinusoidal. Power-factor correction uses either passive or active components to reduce phase errors and harmonic distortion in the current waveform, making the load appear more resistive. A power factor of unity is ideal for efficient energy use, ensuring minimal energy loss and improved system performance.