Replies to post #40091 on Wanderport Corp (WDRP)

[Hockmir]

Gharma - The capacitors most probably reduce the operating cost of the swamp cooler by correcting out the inductance of the motor. IN AC systems, when you have a large inductor (such as a motor) the voltage and current get out of phase in such a way that even though the wires are carrying X volt-amps (i.e. volts times amps), the presence of the motor, through a property known as inductance, causes them to be used inefficiently.

You can learn more by looking up power factor correctors.

Onto the question about capacitors to assist the heater. Good thought, but a different technology would be better to accomplish the power augmentation. I need to work some numbers, and will try to post a complete analysis later this weekend.

[lbdave]

Actually the positive result of your friends modifactions came through a reduction in line loss. Line loss is not something recognized by many in the engineering field, with exception of those dealing with high voltage/distribution lines. Thus, the reason you will see capacitor banks mounted to power poles along distribution lines. My belief is because formulas and numbers don't work out right for engineers, but it's a proven fact when measured by amp meters at the load, and watt meters at the power source.

By using a capacitor you are also improving the power factor of the load, and the over-all savings can be substantial when dealing with large inductive loads that are located a considerable distance from the panel/power source. All conductors, regardless of type present a certain amount of resistance, and the longer the distance the greater the voltage drop.