STATCOM is a power electronic device that provides fast-acting reactive power compensation to stabilize voltage, improve power factor, and enhance power quality in electrical networks.
Statcom
STATCOM – Smart Power for a Stable Grid
The PurityElec Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) is an advanced reactive power compensation system designed to improve voltage stability, enhance power quality, and support dynamic grid performance. Using cutting-edge power electronics, our STATCOM delivers fast, precise, and continuous reactive power control for modern power networks.
Key Features
• Dynamic Voltage Regulation – Maintains stable grid voltage during load variations and faults.
• Fast Response Time – Reacts within milliseconds to compensate for reactive power changes.
• Harmonic Filtering – Reduces distortion and improves overall power quality.
• Scalable & Modular Design – Flexible configurations for medium- and high-voltage applications.
• High Efficiency – Low system losses with advanced IGBT/VSC technology.
• 24/7 Reliability – Built for continuous operation in demanding grid environments.
Applications
• Power Transmission & Distribution – Voltage support and reactive power compensation.
• Renewable Energy Integration – Stabilizes voltage for wind farms, solar plants, and hybrid systems.
• Industrial Facilities – Improves power factor and reduces energy penalties.
• Railway Electrification – Maintains voltage stability in traction power supply systems.
• Grid Code Compliance – Meets local and international power quality standards.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Voltage Range | 3.3kV – 765kV systems |
| Reactive Power Capacity | ±5 Mvar to ±250 Mvar |
| Response Time | < 20 ms |
| Control Technology | Voltage Source Converter (VSC) with IGBT |
| Cooling Options | Air or liquid cooling |
| Standards Compliance | IEEE, IEC, and national grid codes |
Benefits with PurityElec STATCOM
✔ Better Grid Stability – Handles voltage dips, sags, and surges in real time
✔ Improved Power Quality – Minimizes flicker and harmonics
✔ Optimized Energy Use – Enhances power factor, lowering costs
✔ Custom Engineering – Tailored solutions for utility, renewable, and industrial needs
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q1. What is a STATCOM?
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Q2. Why is STATCOM used?
- • To maintain stable voltage in transmission and distribution systems
- • To improve system reliability and reduce voltage flicker
- • To provide dynamic reactive power support for large or fluctuating loads
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Q3. How is STATCOM different from traditional solutions?Unlike passive compensators or capacitor banks, STATCOM:
- • Responds within milliseconds
- • Provides both capacitive and inductive reactive power
- • Works effectively under varying load and harmonic conditions
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Q4. How does a STATCOM work?It uses a Voltage Source Converter (VSC) with IGBTs to generate a controllable AC voltage. By controlling the magnitude and phase of this voltage relative to the grid, STATCOM can inject or absorb reactive power.
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Q5. Can STATCOM regulate both voltage and power factor?Yes. It maintains grid voltage and also supports reactive power compensation, indirectly improving power factor.
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Q6. How fast does STATCOM respond?STATCOM responds in milliseconds, much faster than traditional SVC or capacitor banks.
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Q7. Where is STATCOM typically installed?
- • Transmission and distribution substations
- • Industries with heavy and fluctuating loads (steel, aluminum, cement)
- • Renewable energy plants (wind farms, solar farms)
- • Airports, railways, and data centers
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Q8. Can STATCOM handle harmonics?STATCOM primarily compensates reactive power and stabilizes voltage. For harmonic mitigation, it can be combined with Active Harmonic Filters (AHF) in modern systems.
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Q9. Is STATCOM suitable for long-term load variations?Yes. STATCOM handles both short-term voltage dips and long-term reactive power needs efficiently.
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Q10. What are the key benefits of STATCOM?
- • Fast voltage regulation (milliseconds)
- • Bidirectional reactive power support (leading & lagging)
- • Compact and modular design compared to SVC
- • Improved system stability and reduced flicker
- • Minimal maintenance compared to rotating machines
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Q11. How is STATCOM better than SVC (Static Var Compensator)?
Feature STATCOM SVC Response time Milliseconds Seconds Voltage support Excellent at low voltage Limited at low voltage Size & footprint Compact Larger Efficiency Higher Moderate Maintenance Low Moderate -
Q12. Which standards govern STATCOM design and operation?
- • IEEE 519 (Harmonics)
- • IEC 61000 series (Power Quality & EMC)
- • Local grid code requirements for reactive power support
