Working Principle And Function Of Reactor

The working principle of reactor is based on electromagnetic induction phenomenon. When current passes through a wire, a magnetic field is generated around the wire. Reactors are usually composed of a solenoid structure wound with wire, which can effectively generate and store magnetic fields. Depending on the needs, the reactor can be hollow or with an iron core, and the use of the iron core can enhance its inductance performance. ‌

The main functions of reactors include:

Current limiting and filtering: Series reactors are mainly used to limit short-circuit current and protect power equipment. In capacitor circuits, series reactors can suppress inrush current and filter, reducing the impact of high-order harmonics on the system.
‌Reactive compensation: Shunt reactors are often used for reactive compensation of power systems, improve voltage distribution, reduce power frequency transient overvoltage, and prevent self-excited resonance. ‌
Power factor improvement: By absorbing harmonic currents in the power grid, reactors can improve the power factor of the system and ensure the stable operation of the system.
‌Classification of Reactors‌According to their different structures and functions, reactors can be divided into the following categories:

‌By structure and cooling medium‌: hollow type, iron core type, dry type, oil immersed type, etc.
‌By connection method‌: shunt reactor and series reactor.
‌By function‌: current limiting reactor, filter reactor, smoothing reactor, etc.
‌By purpose‌: such as incoming line reactor, outgoing line reactor, arc suppression coil, etc.
Through these working principles and functions, reactors play an important role in the power system, ensuring the stable operation and efficient operation of power equipment.