Power Factor Correction (PFC) is a key technology in industrial power supplies that improves energy efficiency by optimizing how power is drawn from the electrical grid. By increasing the power factor, PFC reduces energy loss, enhances power quality, and helps systems meet standards such as IEC 61000-3-2—making it essential for industrial applications.

A higher power factor means better efficiency and less wasted energy.

Why is Power Factor Correction Important?

PFC plays a critical role in modern power supply design by:

• Improving overall energy efficiency
• Reducing power losses and heat generation
• Lowering the load on electrical infrastructure
• Supporting compliance with international standards such as IEC 61000-3-2
• Contributing to environmentally friendly and sustainable operation

Power supplies without PFC typically have a power factor of 0.4 to 0.6, while PFC-enabled models can achieve 0.95 or higher.

How Does Power Factor Work?

Power factor measures how effectively electrical power is converted into useful work.

• Apparent Power (VA) = Voltage × Current
• Real Power (W) = Voltage × Current × Power Factor

For example:

• At a power factor of 0.5, more than 2 VA is required to deliver 1 W of usable power
• At a power factor of 0.95, only about 1.05 VA is needed for the same output

This shows how PFC significantly improves power efficiency.

When is PFC Required in Power Supplies?

Power Factor Correction is typically required for power supplies with higher input power to meet regulatory standards such as IEC 61000-3-2.

• Many power supplies above approximately 75 W input power are designed with PFC
• Requirements may vary depending on efficiency, application, and regional regulations

Benefits of Using PFC Power Supplies

Using power supplies with PFC provides several advantages:

• Higher energy efficiency
• Reduced electricity consumption
• Improved power quality
• Lower operating costs
• Better compliance with global standards

Recommended Power Supplies with PFC

Looking for power supplies with built-in Power Factor Correction (PFC)? Explore our industrial power supply solutions designed for high efficiency and compliance with IEC 61000-3-2.

• DIN Rail Power Supply: Force-GT Series
• Panel Mount Power Supply: PMR Series, PMS Series
• Open Frame Power Supply: PJB Series