What is PFC boost converter?

The boost PFC converter uses a switching element to force the input AC current to be sinusoidal and in phase with the input voltage. The example used in this article showed that significant improvement to the power quality of a power supply can be obtained by using a boost PFC converter.

Why is it called boost converter?

The above equation shows that the output voltage is always higher than the input voltage (as the duty cycle goes from 0 to 1), and that it increases with D, theoretically to infinity as D approaches 1. This is why this converter is sometimes referred to as a step-up converter.

Why do we need PFC?

Power factor correction (PFC) aims to improve power factor, and therefore power quality. It reduces the load on the electrical distribution system, increases energy efficiency and reduces electricity costs. It also decreases the likelihood of instability and failure of equipment.

How do I create a boost PFC?

Design Boost Stage:

1. Determine the AC ripple permitted.
2. Inductance required to support worst-case V ripple.
3. Core Selection Process and LI2 Product.
4. Determine Number of Turns.
5. Using the core chosen recalculate inductor current.
6. Choose wire.
7. Calculate Losses – core losses and copper losses.
8. Estimated Temperature Rise.

What is power supply PFC?

The power factor correction is a technique of increasing the power factor of a power supply. Switching power supplies without power factor correction draw current in short, high-magnitude pulses. These pulses can be smoothed out by using active or passive techniques.

How does a PFC unit work?

Power Factor Correction (PFC) equipment is a technology which when installed allows the consumer to reduce their electricity bill by maintaining the level of reactive power consumption. If a site’s Power Factor falls below a predetermined figure then the electricity company adds reactive power charges to your bill.