TECHNICAL GUIDE

Low voltage components (400V / 415V)

Introduction
This technical guide will help you to select components to build up your capacitor banks.
For further information, do not hesitate to contact Alpes Technologies.

Contents
Part 1: Low voltage components
I)
II)
III)
IV)
V)

Alpivar capacitors
CTX-C contactors
CTX-1 contactors
Detuned reactors
Alptec power factor controllers

p2
p4
p6
p8
p 14

Part 2: Assembling of Alpivar capacitor and its components without detuned reactors
I)
II)
III)
IV)
V)

Mounting of Alpivar capacitor in cabinet

3 terminals and 6 terminals connections
Table choice
Instructions for electrical connections
Ventilation

p 15
p 16
p 17
p 18
p 19

Part 3: Assembling of Alpivar capacitor and its components WITH DETUNED REACTORS
I)
II)
III)
IV)
V)

Mounting of Alpivar capacitor in cabinet

3 terminals and 6 terminals connections
Selection table
Instructions for electrical connections
Ventilation

p 21
p 22
p 23
p 24
p 25

Maintenance

p 27

Appendix

p 28

Part 1: Low voltage components

I) ALpivar capacitors - 400 / 415 V Network
1) Alpivar capacitors range
Double or class II insulation. Totally dry
Self-extinguishing
extinguishing polyurethane resin casing. Internal protection for each
winding using:
- A self-healing metallised polypropylene film
- An electric fuse
- A disconnection device in case of overpressure
Color: Casing RAL 7035
Cover RAL 7001
Conforming to standards EN and IEC 60831-1
60831 and 2
Pack

Cat. Nos.
3 Terminals

Cat. Nos.
6 Terminals

Standard type three-phase

phase 400V-50Hz
400V
Max 470V

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Pack

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

V2.540
V540
V7.540
V1040
V12.540
V1540
V2040
V2540
V3040
V3540
V4040
V5040
V6040
V7540
Cat. Nos.
3 Terminals

VH2.540
VH540
VH7.540
VH1040
VH12.540
VH1540
VH20 40
VH2540
VH3040
VH3540
VH4040
VH5040
VH6040
VH7540
VH8040

V2.540-3 mono
V540-3 mono
V7.540-3 mono
V1040-3 mono
V12.540-3 mono
V1540 -3 mono
V2040-3 mono
V2540-3 mono
V3040-3 mono
V3540-3 mono
V4040-3 mono
V5040-3 mono
V6040-3 mono
V7540-3 mono
Cat. Nos.
6 Terminals

VH2.540-3 mono
VH540-3 mono
VH7.540-3 mono
VH1040-3 mono
VH12.540-3 mono
VH1540 -3 mono
VH2040-3 mono
VH2540-3 mono
VH3040-3 mono
VH3540-3 mono
VH4040-3 mono
VH5040-3 mono
VH6040-3 mono
VH7540-3 mono
VH8040-3 mono

Harmonic pollution SH/ST 15%

Nominal power (kVAr)
(kVA
2.5
5
7.5
10
12.5
15
20
25
30
35
40
50
60
75
H type three-phase
phase 400V-50Hz
400V
Max 520V
Harmonic pollution 15% < SH/ST 25%
Can be associated with 7% detuned reactors (see page 9)
Nominal power (kVAr)
(kVA
2.5
5
7.5
10
12.5
15
20
25
30
35
40
50
60
75
80

2) Technical specifications
Discharge resistors
Fitted inside (unless special request) they discharge the unit in accordance with applicable IEC standards (discharging time: 3 minutes)
Loss factor
Alpivar capacitors have a loss factor of less than 0.1 x 10
This value leads to a power consumption of less than 0.3 W per kVAr, including the discharge resistors
Capacitance
Tolerance in the capacitance value +/- 5%
Our manufacturing process, which avoids any inclusion of air in the coils, ensures excellent stability of the capacitance throughout the service life
of the Alpivar capacitor
Max. permissible voltage: 1.18 Un rated
Max. permissible current:
- Standard type: 1.3 In
- H type: 1.5 In
Insulation class
- Withstand at 50 Hz for 1min: 6 kV
- 1.2/50 s impulse withstand: 25 kV
Standards
Alpivar capacitors comply with:
- French standard: NF C 54 108 and 109
- European standard: EN 60831-1 and 2
- International standard: IEC 60831-3 and 2
- End of life performance tests performed successfully in EDF and LCIE laboratories
Temperature class
Alpivar capacitors are designed for a standard temperature class -25/+55C
- Maximum temperature: 55C
- Average over 24 hours: 45C
- Annual average: 35C
- Other temperature classes on request

3) Dimensions
Dimensions (mm)
kVAr

W2
70

H
220

Weight (kg)

2.5

W1
90

90

70

220

3.5

7.5

90

70

220

3.5

10

90

70

220

3.5

12.5

90

70

220

3.5

15

90

70

220

3.5

20

90

70

220

3.5

25

90

70

220

3.5

30

180

156

220

35

180

156

220

40

180

156

220

50

180

156

220

60

270

244

220

10.5

75

270

244

220

10.5

80

360

332

220

14

3.5

II) CTX-C contactors Specific contactors for capacitors

1) Three-pole contactor for capacitor banks without detuned reactors

296 05

296 65

Three-pole contactors
equipped with
prefabricated auxiliary
contacts for damping of
inrush current

Three-pole contactors
Max. reactive power
calculated for an ambient
temperature 55C

Conform to standards: IEC/EN 60947-1, IEC 60947-4-1, IEC/EN 60947-5-1

Pack

Cat. Nos.

Max. reactive power kVAr (at 400V)

Control voltage

Integrated auxiliary contact

296 04

12.5

230 V

1NO+1NC

296 05

12.5

440 V

1NO+1NC

296 24

20

230 V

1NO+1NC

296 25

20

440 V

1NO+1NC

296 44

45

230 V

1NO+1NC

296 45

45

440 V

1NO+1NC

296 54

55

230 V

1NO+1NC

296 55

55

440 V

1NO+1NC

2) Technical specifications
Standards
Conforms to standards:
- IEC/EN 60947-4-1
- IEC/EN 60947-5-1
Ambient conditions
Storage temperature: - 50C to 80C
Operating temperature: - 25C to 55C (with no reduction)
Working altitude up to 3000 m: with no change in characteristics
Mounting position
Vertical mounting +/- 30

Power circuit and control circuit characteristics

Cat. Nos.

29604 / 29605 29624 / 29625 29644 / 29645 29654 / 29655

POWER CIRCUIT (POLES)

Rated Voltage

(V)

690

690

690

690

Rated insulation Voltages according to IEC 947

(V)

1000

1000

1000

1000

Rated thermal Current

(A)

25

45

90

110

230/240V

(kVAr)

7.5

12.5

25

35

380/400V

(kVAr)

12.5

20

45

55

660/690V

(kVAr)

15

25

55

65

280,000

280,000

150,000

120, 000

350

350

150

150

Max. operating power at 55C

Electrical endurance
Max. operations/hour

(operations)
(operations/hour)

CONTROL CIRCUIT
50 Hz

(V)

24-690

24-690

24-690

24-690

60 Hz

(V)

24-690

24-690

24-690

24-690

Rated Voltage

Circuit open

(VA)

45

48

191

191

Circuit closed

(VA)

15.5

15.5

Circuit open

(VA)

54

58

245

245

Circuit closed

(VA)

20

20

Circuit open

(VA)

35

39

215

215

Circuit closed

(VA)

15

15

Frequency

Consumption Dual Frequency 50 Hz

Dual Frequency 60 Hz

Instantaneous Auxiliary Contact Bloks

Rated insulation Voltage Ui

(V)

100

Rated thermal Current Ith

(A)

10

III) CTX-1 contactors 25 A to 80 A three-pole industrial

contactors
1) Contactors for capacitor banks equipped with detuned reactors

Three-pole contactors equipped with control coil

Screw terminals protected against accidental contact in accordance with VDE 0106 T.100. VBG4
IP 10 for 25 A to 80 A ratings
Can be fitted with auxiliary contact blocks for front or side mounting: up to 4 blocks for 25 A to 40 A ratings and up to 6
blocks for 50 A to 80 A ratings
Conform to standards IEC/EN 60947-1, IEC/EN 60947-4-1, IEC/EN 60947CTX-1 contactors
Three-pole contactors
Control circuit: 50/60 Hz

Pack

Cat. Nos.

Max. operating current AC 3

Control voltage

Integrated
auxiliary contact

Power terminals

293 74

25 A

230 V

1 NC

Screw terminals

293 75

25 A

400 V

1 NC

Screw terminals

293 94

40 A

230 V

Cage terminals

293 95

40 A

400 V

Cage terminals

294 14

65 A

230 V

Cage terminals

294 15

65 A

400 V

Cage terminals

294 24

80 A

230 V

Cage terminals

294 25

80 A

400 V

Cage terminals

2) Technical specifications
Standards
Conforms to standards:
- IEC/EN 60947-1
- IEC/EN 60947-4-1
- IEC/EN 60947-5-1
- UL 508

Ambient conditions
Storage temperature: - 50C to 80C
Operating temperature: - 40C to 60C
Working altitude up to 3000 m: with no change in characteristics

Mounting position
Vertical and horizontal mounting +/- 30

Power circuit and control circuit characteristics

Cat. Nos.

29374 / 29375 29394 / 29395 29414 / 29415 29424 / 29425

POWER CIRCUIT (POLES)

Nominal thermal current Ith 55C

(A)

45

60

110

110

Nominal operating current Ie

(A)

25

40

65

80

Nominal operating Voltage Ue

(V)

690

690

690

690

Nominal insulation Voltages

(V)

1000

1000

1000

1000

(V)

1000

1000

1000

1000

50 Hz

(V)

24-690

24-690

24-690

24-690

60 Hz

(V)

24-600

24-600

24-600

24-600

Holding (50 Hz / 60 Hz) (VA)

11.4 / 9.5

11.4 / 9.5

20 / 16.6

20 / 16.6

Inrush (50 Hz / 60 Hz

120 / 100

120 / 100

245 / 204

245 / 204

CONTROL CIRCUIT
Nominal insulation Voltages Ui

Standard Voltage

Dual
Frequency coil
Consumption

(VA)

IV) Detuned reactors

Rated line voltage: 400/415V
Rated frequency: 50Hz
Tolerance on inductance: 0/+6%
Dielectric test 50Hz, 3kV, 60s Protection class: IP 00
Cooling method: natural air (AN)
Ambient temperature: -5 to +40C
Elevation above sea level: 1000 m a.s.l.
Reference standard: IEC 60289 EN 60289
Insulation class H
Insulation level 1.1kV
Blocking factor p% = 7% - Tuning order = 3.78
Thermal protection switch (250V, 2.5A) wired on terminal block

1) Application

The detuned reactors are designed to protect the

capacitors against harmonics and avoid parallel
resonance and amplification of harmonics flowing
on the network. The connection of these reactors in
series with capacitors causes a shift of the resonance
frequency of the circuit composed by feeding
transformer
reactors- capacitors so that the
1.
resulting self-resonance
resonance frequency is well below the
line2.
harmonics

3.
The blocking factor p% is expressed by the ratio
4.
between inductive reactance and capacitive
5. it corresponds to the increase of voltage
reactance
applied
6. to capacitors, with respect to line voltage,
due to circulation of capacitive current in the reactor

2) Construction

The windings of reactors are

ar made of copper or
aluminium wire (insulated by class H double-layer
double
enamel or by double Nomex tape)
The reactor is protected by a vacuum and pressure
impregnation (VPI), by solventless polyester resin,
followed by thermosetting in oven
The number and position of air gaps are selected in
order to minimise losses in magnetic core and
windings
Limbs, yokes and air-gaps
gaps are blocked by adhesives
and pressing elements designed to reduce acoustic
noise
The reactors are designed with natural air cooling

7.
8.
9.

3) Installation
It will be responsibility of the installer to comply with the national and international installation standards
The reactors operate properly only under the specified conditions:
- Storage and transportation temperature: -25C / +70C
- Selection of the right type according to harmonic pollution
- In operation an adequate air circulation has to be guaranteed
- Windings must be installed vertically for better heat dissipation
- The reactor must be protected against overloads and short-circuits by fuses and/or circuit breakers.
- Suitable protection against undesired contacts (IP00) must be provided by means of enclosures or boxes protecting
the power system where the reactor is installed
- It is imperative to connect the thermal N.C dry contact in series with the contactor coil, in order to disconnect the step
in case of overheating
- This range of detuned reactors cannot be connected with standard capacitors. It must be connected with appropriate
H type capacitors selected by our technical team (see selection table)

Available upon request:

- Ambient temperature higher than 40C
- Other voltages (example 220V, 440V) lower than 1000V
- Other frequencies (example 60Hz)
- Other blocking factor p%: 5.67% (tuning frequency 215Hz) - 13.7% (tuning frequency 135Hz)

4) Technical characteristics
DETUNED THREE-PHASE REACTORS 400 V, 50 Hz
CONNECTION WITH 3 TERMINALS CAPACITORS
Tuning frequency 189 Hz (p%=7 - n=3.78)
Standard class designed for harmonic level 25% < SH/ST < 35%

Q (kVAr)

Part number

Ln (mH)

I RMS (A)

Ptot (W)

12,5

SAH-2.85-21

2.85

21

100

25

SAH-1.45-42

1.45

42

160

50

SAH-0.72-83

0.72

83

230

75

SAH-0.48-123

0.48

123

320

Tuning frequency 189 Hz (p%=7 - n=3.78)

Reinforced class designed for harmonic level 35% < SH/ST < 50%

Q (kVAr)

Part number

Ln (mH)

I RMS (A)

Ptot (W)

20

SAH-1.78-38

1.78

38

200

40

SAH-0.9-75

0.9

75

280

80

SAH-0.45-150

0.45

150

380

DETUNED THREE-PHASE REACTORS 400 V, 50 Hz

CONNECTION WITH 6 TERMINALS CAPACITORS
Tuning frequency 189 Hz (p%=7 - n=3.78)
Standard class designed for harmonic level 25% < SH/ST < 35%

Q (kVAr)

Part number

Ln (mH)

I RMS (A)

Ptot (W)

12,5

SAH-8.55-12

8.55

12

110

25

SAH-4.3-24

4.3

24

130

50

SAH-2.15-48

2.15

48

240

75

SAH-1.44-71

1.44

71

330

Tuning frequency 189 Hz (p%=7 - n=3.78)

Reinforced class designed for harmonic level 35% < SH/ST <50%

Q (kVAr)

Part number

Ln (mH)

I RMS (A)

Ptot (W)

20

SAH-5.36-24

5.36

24

170

40

SAH-2.68-44

2.68

44

250

80

SAH-1.34-87

1.34

87

390

10

Note: If the ratio SH/ST is between the 2 values given in the table then you must select the most
restricting alternative
(Appendix 1)

P%: blocking factor, it is expressed by the percentage ratio between inductive reactance and capacitive
reactance (p = XL / XC x 100)
It is related to the resonance frequency (fris) of the system by the formula:

%


fris = 50  

Q: compensation reactive power (KVAr)

Ln: rated inductance, expressed in mH.
IRMS: current, expressed in A. It is given by the formula:

  1.075 
 
 
 

Where I5 is the RMS value of the 5th harmonic current, I7 of the 7th harmonic
Ptot: total losses, including additional losses due to harmonics, expressed in W and referred to 75C

11

5) Dimensions

DETUNED THREE-PHASE REACTORS 400 V, 50 Hz

CONNECTION WITH 3 TERMINALS CAPACITORS
Tuning frequency 189 Hz (p%=7 - n=3.78)
Standard class designed for harmonic level 25% < SH/ST < 35%

Part Number

Dimensions (mm)

Weight (kg)

SAH-2.85-21

180

115

180

SAH-1.45-42

240

160

205

12

SAH-0.72-83

240

175

205

22

SAH-0.48-123

260

190

260

26

Tuning frequency 189 Hz (p%=7 - n=3.78)

Reinforced class designed for harmonic level 35% < SH/ST < 50%

Part Number

Dimensions (mm)

Weight (kg)

SAH-1.78-38

240

130

240

13

SAH-0.9-75

240

150

240

23

SAH-0.45-150

360

200

240

40

12

DETUNED THREE-PHASE REACTORS 400 V, 50 Hz

CONNECTION WITH 6 TERMINALS CAPACITORS
Tuning frequency 189 Hz (p%=7 - n=3.78)
Standard class designed for harmonic level 25% < SH/ST < 35%
Dimensions (mm)
Part Number

Weight (kg)
L

SAH-8.55-12

180

110

180

6.5

SAH-4.3-24

240

130

230

13

SAH-2.15-48

240

165

240

22

SAH-1.44-71

260

195

260

26

Tuning frequency 189 Hz (p%=7 - n=3.78)

Reinforced class designed for harmonic level 35% < SH/ST < 50%
Dimensions (mm)
Part Number

Weight (kg)
L

SAH-5.36-23.9

240

185

215

26

SAH-2.68-44

240

175

205

23

SAH-1.34-87

250

200

280

35

13

V) Alptec power factor controllers

2) Technical specifications
For Alpimatic and Alpistatic cabinets
- Digital power factor controller
- LED screen: 3 digits, 7 segments
- Membrane keypad
- RS 232 serial port for setting parameters and automatic testing via a PC
- Internal temperature sensor
- Advanced function for measuring capacitor over voltages,
- 1 programmable relay for an alarm and/or controlling a fan
Versions
- 3, 5, 7 and 12 controlled steps
Temperature class
- Operation: - 10C to + 60C
- Storage: - 20C to + 80C
Current inputs
- Rated current: 5 A (1 A on request)
- Operating limit: 0.125 A to 6 A
- Input current: 0.65 W
- Not sensitive to the CT polarity
and - Not sensitive to the phase rotation polarity

1) Alptec power factor controllers range

The Alptec power factor controller controls connection

disconnection of steps in order to maintain the target power factor
It operates digitally which ensures the accuracy and reliability of Frequency
measurements and values read, even on supplies subject to high levels of - 50 Hz/60 Hz
interference
Parameters
Conforming to standard IEC/EN 61010-1
- Power factor: 0.8 inductive to 0.8 capacitive
- Same step reconnection time: 5 to 240 s
- Manual and automatic mode
- 4 quadrant operation (ALPTEC 12H) for operation on generator
Pack
Cat. Nos.
Power factor controllers
- Internal temperature sensor
- Volt-free contact for remote alarm
Power supply 400
40 V 50 Hz
- Alarm display (overvoltage, over/under compensation, overload, etc.)
Number of steps controlled

ALPETEC3.400

ALPETEC5.400

ALPETEC7.400

ALPETEC12.400

12

3) Dimensions
Cat. Nos.

Power supply 230 V 50 Hz

ALPETEC3

Number of steps controlled

ALPETEC5

ALPETEC3.230

ALPETEC7

ALPETEC5.230

ALPETEC12

ALPETEC7.230

ALPETEC12H

ALPETEC12.230

12

ALPETEC11ST

ALPETEC12H

12

ALPETEC11ST

11

Height x Width x Depth

(mm)
96 x 96 x 65
96 x 96 x 65
96 x 96 x 65
144 x 144 x 65
144 x 144 x 65
144 x 144 x 65

Weight
(Kg)
0.42
0.44
0.46
0.77
0.98
0.98

14

Part 2: Assembling
ing of Alpivar capacitor and its
i
components without detuned reactors
I) Mounting of ALpivar
ALpivar capacitor in cabinet
1) Mounting and installation
Yes
Capacitors must be installed inside well ventilated enclosures and
electrical rooms, in order to match the temperature range limits:
limits
Maximum temperature in the electrical room : 40C
Average temperature over 24 hours in the electrical room : 35C
Annual average temperature in the electrical room : 25C
Minimum temperature : -5C
Maximum altitude: 2000 m.a.s.l.

No

When assembled on top of each other and/or beside a minimum

clearance distance
nce of 25 mm is mandatory between 2 capacitors.

Yes

For a 25 kV lightning withstand it is mandatory to have a

clearance distance of 15 mm between the capacitor and
any metallic part.

15

II) 3 Terminals and 6 Terminals connections

1) Standard 3 Terminals connection
In this configuration the contactor is wired in line and it must be rated for the full power of the capacitor.
Maximum power of each step is 50 kVAr.
kVA (See table choice p 16)

2) Specific 6 Terminals connection

In this configuration the contactor is wired in the delta loop and therefore can be derated by 3 compare to
the power of the capacitor. (See table choice p 16)

16

III) Selection Table

Capacitors - fuses - contactors - cables

For STANDARD and H type capacitor banks - 50Hz WITHOUT DETUNED REACTORS
For capacitors banks without detuned reactors, dedicated contactors including damping resistors have to be used to insure the well
functioning of the bank.

Capacitors
Power at 400V
(kVAr)

HRC Fuses
gG Type

3 terminals

6 terminals

Capacitors

Capacitors

Legrand Contactors*
(400V)

3 terminals

6 terminals

296 05

296 05

(12.5 kVAr)

(12.5 kVAr)

Cables

In line
3 terminals

Inside delta loop

6 terminals

6 mm2

6 mm2

10 mm2

6 mm2

25 mm2

16 mm2

35mm

25 mm2

V12.540- 3MONO
V12.540 or VH12.540

or

12.5 (kVAr)

VH12.540-3MONO

25A

12.5 (kVAr)
V2540- 3MONO
V2540 or VH2540

or

25 (kVAr)

VH2540-3MONO

50A

296 45

296 25

(45 kVAr)

(20 kVAr)

25 (kVAr)
V5040- 3MONO
V5040 or VH5040

or

50 (kVAr)

VH5040-3MONO

100A

296 55

296 45

(55 kVAr)

(45 kVAr)

50 (kVAr)
V7540- 3MONO
V7540 or VH7540

or

75 (kVAr)

VH7540-3MONO

160A

NA

296 55
(55 kVAr)

75 (kVAr)

* Contactors given with 400V coil

17

III) Instruction for electrical connections

1) Tightening torque
It is a requirement to maintain the following torques:
-

Capacitor terminal = 11 to 15 Nm-1

Contactor terminal =
Reactive Power

12.5

20

45

55

Contactor CTXC

296 05

296 25

296 45

296 55

1.6

2.2

4.5

4.5

Nm-1

HRC fuses terminal = 8 to 12 Nm-1

2) Cables preparation for power connections

In order to insure a safe and reliable electrical connection, it is a requirement to prepare the cables as follow:

Stripped cable to be connected on

contactor terminals

Lugged cable to be connected

on bus bar, capacitor and fuses

18

IV) Ventilation
1) Theoretical aspects
The following ventilation rules are applicable for standard conditions of use.
The ventilation calculation formula is theoretical.
Information supplied by Alpes Technologies is for guidance; however Alpes Technologies cannot be responsible for
the installation itself. Please do not hesitate to contact our experts.

Standard condition of use conforming to standard IEC/EN 61439-1

Maximum temperature in the electrical room : 40C

Average temperature over 24 hours in the electrical room : 35C
Annual average temperature in the electrical room : 25C
Minimum temperature : -5C
Maximum altitude: 2000 m.a.s.l.

Ventilation rules

Active losses of rack (capacitor + contactor + cables + fuses + busbar) = 2W/kVAr

Cabinet must be supplied by a base air input and extraction from the top
Air stream inside the cabinet must be from bottom to top
Roof elevation by 15 mm is strongly recommended in case of natural ventilation
Air entry at bottom plinth level must not be blocked or reduced by any component or module
Temperature rise :

T = P(W) / K x S

Airflow calculation:

m/h = 3.1 x

-(K x S)

T
T = Difference between electric room ambient temperature and cabinet ambient temperature (K)
Pw = Active losses to be dissipated (2W x Total kVAr power in the cabinet)
K = Heat dissipation factor (5.5 W/m for metal cabinet)
S = free surface of the cabinet (m)

Reactive power
(kVAr at 400 V - 50 Hz)

IP protection index of
cabinets 3x

Ventilation Type

Natural ventilation
area
Bottom
input

Top
output

Power from 0 to 300 kVAr

(1 cabinet)

Natural

700 cm

700 cm

350 < Power 450 kVAr

(1 cabinet)

Natural

1000 cm

1000 cm

Power > 450 kVAr

Minimum air
flow(m/hour)

See formula
above

You have to assemble 2 cabinets in parallel with

a similar ventilation surface

19

2) Ventilation principles Precautions

Example of temperature rise Calculation:
Cabinet: 150 kVAr
Dimensions: 600x500x1400
Total surface S = 3.38 m
Dissipation = 2W/kVAr Pw = 300 W
K = 5.5 W/m
T = 16

If Tamb max = 35C

Tcabinet = 51C > authorized temperature
Ventilation is required
Airflow = 35 m/h (to limit T to 10 maximum)
Natural ventilation is recommended with:
Bottom input surface
Top output surface
700 cm

700 cm

Natural ventilation with 450 kVAr in one cabinet

Warnings

Natural ventilation is preferred for cabinet with IP 3x

Dry and not dusty environnement
Electrical room with good ventilation
Maximum temperature : 40C and average over 24H : 35C
Ventilation louvers must be at a minimum distance of 200 mm from
any obstacle (wall, distribution board)
In case of IP rating > 3x, forced ventilation is required

A note about fans:

3
Fan manufacturers usually rate their fans in m /h open air or at best with only one inlet grill. The effective air
3
movement (in m /h) is directly dependent upon the back pressure presented by fan inlet and outlet grills and possibility
also internal component layout. All of these items present losses thus increasing the back pressure to the fan to reduce
its effective airflow. Furthermore, as fan filters get dirty, their losses increase, thus decreasing the effective airflow. It is
almost always necessary to specify a fan rating that will be larger than the calculated rating to account for input and
output losses not accounted for in the manufactures fan rating. It is recommended to consult the fan manufacturer for
fan flow vs. pressure curves.

20

Part 3: Assembling of Alpivar capacitor and its

components with detuned reactors
I) Mounting of ALpivar
ALpivar capacitor in cabinet
1) Heat dissipation
Yes

Detuned reactor must be located in the upper part of the

enclosure in order to avoid overheating of other
components.
It is strongly advice to separate the detuned reactors from
other components by installing them in a separate and
dedicated column, orr at least provide a separating plate.
Installation of detuned reactors requires forced ventilation.

fig 1

2) Detuned reactor position

The windings must be placed vertically to provide sufficient
ventilation. It is not allowed to put them on the side.

3) Installation clearance distances

The following minimum distances
nces must be respected
to provide sufficient
ent ventilation and insulation :
- 70 mm between two magnetic circuits or magnetic circuit
and enclosure. (fig2 & 3)
- 30 mm between enclosure and external winding. (fig2)

70 mm

fig 2

fig 3
21

II) 3 Terminals and 6 Terminals connections

1) Standard 3 Terminals connection
In this configuration contactor and detuned reactor are wired in line and they must be defined for the full
current.
Detuned reactor must be selected according to the selection table p. 9

2) Specific 6 Terminals connection

In this configuration contactor and detuned reactor are wired in delta loop. The contactor can be derated by 3
compare to kVAr rating of the capacitor.
capacitor
Detuned
tuned reactor is specially designed and must be selected according to table p. 9.

22

IV) Selection Table

Capacitors - fuses - contactors - cables - reactors
Components to be wired with STANDARD DETUNED REACTORS
Capacitors
Power at 400 V (kvar)

HRC
Fuses
gG
Type

Legrand Contactors
(400V)

3 terminals
Capacitors

6 terminals
Capacitors

3 terminals

6 terminals

VH12.540
12.5 (kVAr)

VH12.540-3MONO
12.5 (kVAr)

25A

293 75
(25 A)

293 75
(25 A)

VH2540
25 (kVAr)

VH2540-3MONO
25 (kVAr)

50A

293 95
(40 A)

VH5040
50 (kVAr)

VH5040-3MONO
50 (kVAr)

100A

VH7540
75 (kVAr)

VH7540-3MONO
75 (kVAr)

160A

Cables

In line

Reactors

Inside delta
loop
6 terminals

3 terminals

6 terminals

6 mm

6 mm2

SAH-2.85-21

SAH-8.55-12

293 75
(25 A)

10 mm

6 mm2

SAH-1.45-42

SAH-4.3-24

294 15
(65A)

293 95
(40 A)

25 mm

16 mm2

SAH-0.72-83

SAH2.15-48

NA

294 15
(65 A)

35 mm

35 mm2

SAH
SAH-0.48-123

SAH-1.44-71

3 terminals

Components to be wired with REINFORCED DETUNED REACTORS

Capacitors
Power at 400 V (kvar)

3
terminals
Capacitors

6 terminals
Capacitors

VH2040
20 (kVAr)

VH2040-3 MONO
20 (kVAr)

VH4040
40 (kVAr)
VH8040
80 (kVAr)

HRC
Fuses
gG
Type

Legrand Contactors
(400V)

3 terminals

6 terminals

40A

293 95
(40 A)

VH4040-3 MONO
40 (kVAr r)

80A

VH8040-3 MONO
80 (kVAr)

160A

Cables

Reactors

In line
3 terminals

Inside
delta loop
6 terminals

3 terminals

6 terminals

293 75
(25 A)

10 mm

6 mm

SAH
SAH-1.78-38

SAH-5.36-24

294 15
(65A)

293 95
(40 A)

35 mm

16 mm

SAH-0.9-75

SAH-2.68-44

NA

294 25
(80 A)

NA

35 mm

SAH-0.45150

SAH-1.34-87

23

IV) Instruction for electrical connections

1) Tightening torque
It is a requirement to maintain the following torques:
-

Capacitor terminal = 11 to 15 Nm-1

Contactor terminal =
Current A

25

40

65

80

Contactor CTX1

293 75

293 95

294 15

294 25

2.5

2.5

4.5

4.5

Nm-1

HRC fuses terminal = 8 to 12 Nm-1

2) Cables preparation
In order to insure a safe and reliable electrical connection, it is a requirement to prepare the cables as follow:

Stripped cable to be connected on

contactor terminals

Lugged cable to be connected

on bus bar, capacitor and fuses

3) Bi-Metal washer for detuned reactors

Reactor terminals are made of aluminum, so it is a requirement to use a bi-metal washer to connect copper
cables.

Copper side at the cable lug connector

Aluminum side at the reactor terminal

24

V) Ventilation
1) Theoretical aspects
The following ventilation rules are applicable for standard conditions of use.
The ventilation calculation formula is theoretical.
Information supplied by Alpes Technologies is for guidance; however Alpes Technologies cannot be responsible for
the installation itself. Please do not hesitate to contact our experts.

Standard condition of use conforming to standard IEC/EN 61439-1

Maximum temperature in the electrical room : 40C

Average temperature over 24 hours in the electrical room : 35C
Annual average temperature in the electrical room : 25C
Minimum temperature : -5C
Maximum altitude: 2000 m.a.s.l.

Ventilation rules

Active losses of rack (capacitor + contactor + cables + fuses + busbar + detuned reactor) = 6W/kVAr
Cabinet must be supplied by a base air input and extraction from the top
Air stream inside the cabinet must be from bottom to top
It is a requirement to use extracting fans on the cabinet roof
Roof elevation by 15 mm is strongly recommended in case of natural ventilation
Keep a minimum clearance distance of 100 mm between extracting fans and racks
Air entry at bottom plinth level must not be blocked or reduced by any component or module
Temperature rise :

Airflow calculation:

T = P(W) / K x S
P

m/h = 3.1 x

-(K x S)

T
T = Difference between electric room ambient temperature and cabinet ambient temperature (K)
Pw = Active losses to be dissipated (2W x Total kVAr power in the cabinet)
K = Heat dissipation factor (5.5 w/m for metal cabinet)
S = free surface of the cabinet (m)
Reactive power
(kVAr at 400 V - 50 Hz)

IP protection index of
cabinets 3x

Ventilation
Type

Natural ventilation
Bottom
input

Top
output

Forced
Ventilation by
extraction

Power from 0 to 150 kVAr

(1 cabinet)

Natural

700 cm

700 cm

150 < Power 400 kVAr

(1 cabinet)

Natural + Forced

1000 cm

500 m/h

Power > 400 kVAr

Minimum air
flow(m/hour)

See formula
above

You have to assemble 2 cabinets in parallel with a similar

ventilation

25

2) Ventilation principles - Precautions

Example of temperature rise Calculation:
Cabinet 300 kVAr
Dimensions: 800x500x2100 mm
Total surface S = 5.36 m
Dissipation = 6W/kVAr Pw = 1800 W
K = 5.5 W/m
T = 55

If Tamb max = 35C

Tcabinet = 90C > authorized temperature
Ventilation is required
Airflow = 460 m/h (to limit T to 10 maximum)
Forced and natural ventilation is required with:
3 fans (160 m air flow / fan)
Bottom input surface
Top output surface
1000 cm

Cabinet 800 x 500 H: 2100 mm with natural and forced ventilation

1000 cm

Warnings

Forced ventilation is a requirement for Q> 150 kVAr or if

natural ventilation is not sufficient
Dry and not dusty environnement
Electrical room with good ventilation
Maximum temperature : 40C and average over 24H : 35C
Ventilation louvers must be at a minimum distance of 200 mm
from any obstacle (wall, distribution board)
Fans must be located above detuned reactors, where the heat
dissipation is the highest

A note about fans:

3

Fan manufacturers usually rate their fans in m /h open air or at best with only one inlet grill. The effective air
3
movement (in m /h) is directly dependent upon the back pressure presented by fan inlet and outlet grills and possibility
also internal component layout. All of these items present losses thus increasing the back pressure to the fan to reduce
its effective airflow. Furthermore, as fan filters get dirty, their losses increase, thus decreasing the effective airflow. It is
almost always necessary to specify a fan rating that will be larger than the calculated rating to account for input and
output losses not accounted for in the manufactures fan rating. It is recommended to consult the fan manufacturer for
fan flow vs. pressure curves.

26

Maintenace
When conducting inspection or maintenance operations, it is essential to comply with applicable
safety standards.
These operations have to be undertaken by authorized and qualified persons.

Before accessing any parts under voltage:

1) Open the fuse-switch on the auxiliary circuits

2) Open the circuit breaker, switch or cut-off the power circuit

The capacitors are fitted with internal discharge resistors which reduce the residual voltage to 75V in 3
minutes (in compliance with applicable standards). Before short-circuiting the terminals and earthing the
capacitors,

Wait for 5 minutes

As the capacitors are solid state devices, little maintenance is required. However, it is a requirement to
perform the following checks annually:

Check that the equipment is clean, as accumulated dust can hamper correct ventilation and insulation.

Check the conditions of the switch devices contacts (contactors)

The contactors are heavy loaded during closing and opening on capacitive currents. We recommend that
these are replaced every 3 years.
Check the tightness of the power connections, particularly the contactor ones.
(A first check 2 months after the commissioning is highly recommended)

Check the current delivered by the capacitor panels, for comparison with the nominal value

Remove dust and check the correct operation of the ventilation (natural or/and forced).

Check temperature inside the cubicle in which capacitor racks are fitted.

It is necessary to make an annual thermal measurement on the components inside the capacitor bank,
as part of a preventive maintenance schedule

27

Appendix 1: Degree of interference

28

Notes:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------All technical data are not binding for the manufacturer. We reserve the right to modify information contained herein without any notice. ALPES TECHNOLOGIES
declines all responsibility for damages to persons or things due to a misuse of the product. Recommendation for the safe use of static capacitors, banks and equipment
for power factor correction must be respected.

29

P.A.E. Les Glaisins

7, rue des Bouvires B.P. 332
74943 Annecy-Le-Vieux Cedex
Tl : 33(0)4 50 64 05 13
Fax : 33(0)4 50 64 04 37
www.alpestechnologies.com
Rf : 2011-CA-ENG-COMP-01