Measurement of Power and Power Factor in

a Single-Phase AC Circuit

This lab manual outlines the procedure for measuring power and power factor in a
single-phase AC circuit using a wattmeter and a power factor meter. The measured values
will then be verified through calculations based on the circuit parameters. This experiment
provides a practical understanding of power measurement techniques and the significance
of power factor in AC circuits.

1. Introduction

In AC circuits, power is not simply the product of voltage and current, as it is in DC circuits.
The presence of reactive components (inductors and capacitors) introduces a phase
difference between voltage and current, leading to the concept of power factor.
Understanding and measuring power and power factor are crucial for efficient energy
utilization and system design.

• Active Power (P): The actual power consumed by the circuit, measured in watts (W).
• Reactive Power (Q): The power exchanged between the source and reactive
components, measured in volt-amperes reactive (VAR).
• Apparent Power (S): The product of voltage and current, measured in volt-amperes
(VA).
• Power Factor (PF): The ratio of active power to apparent power (PF = P/S),
representing the efficiency of power utilization. It is also the cosine of the angle
between voltage and current (PF = cos φ).

2. Objectives
• To measure the active power in a single-phase AC circuit using a wattmeter.
• To measure the power factor of a single-phase AC circuit using a power factor meter.
• To calculate the active power and power factor based on circuit parameters.
• To verify the measured values with the calculated values.

3. Equipment Required
• AC Power Supply (Variable)
• Wattmeter
• Power Factor Meter
• Ammeter
• Voltmeter
• Resistor (R)
• Connecting Wires

4. Circuit Diagram
 A simple RL series circuit is used for this experiment.

AC Source
|
~
|
Ammeter (A)
|
Resistor (R)
|
Inductor (L)
|
Wattmeter (Current Coil)
|
~
|
AC Source (Neutral)

Voltmeter (V) - Connected across the AC Source

Wattmeter (Voltage Coil) - Connected across the AC Source
Power Factor Meter - Connected as per its manual (typically in parallel
with the load)

Single-Phase AC Circuit Measurement Setup

Measures power
Wattmeter
consumption

Stores energy in a
Inductor
magnetic field

Limits current in the

Resistor
circuit

Measures current flow Ammeter

Provides electrical
AC Source
power
5. Procedure
1. Circuit Setup:
• Connect the circuit as shown in the circuit diagram. Ensure that the wattmeter
and power factor meter are connected correctly, paying close attention to the
polarity and current/voltage coil connections.
• The ammeter should be connected in series with the load (R and L), and the
voltmeter should be connected in parallel with the AC source.

2. Wattmeter Connection:
• The wattmeter has two coils: a current coil (CC) and a voltage coil (VC).
• The current coil is connected in series with the load, carrying the load current.
• The voltage coil is connected in parallel with the load, measuring the voltage
across the load.
• Ensure the polarity of the coils is correct. Incorrect polarity will result in a
negative reading.

3. Power Factor Meter Connection:

• The connection of the power factor meter depends on the specific meter being
used. Consult the meter's manual for proper connection instructions. Typically, it
involves connecting the meter in parallel with the load, similar to the voltmeter.

4. Measurements:
• Set the AC power supply to a suitable voltage (e.g., 220V).
• Turn on the power supply.
• Record the readings from the following instruments:

• Wattmeter (P) - Active Power in Watts

• Power Factor Meter (PF) - Power Factor (dimensionless)
• Voltmeter (V) - Voltage in Volts
• Ammeter (I) - Current in Amperes

5. Calculations:
• Calculate the impedance (Z) of the circuit: Z = √(R² + X_L²) where
X_L = 2πfL (f is the frequency of the AC supply).
• Calculate the phase angle (φ) between voltage and current: φ =
arctan(X_L/R).
• Calculate the power factor: PF = cos(φ).
• Calculate the active power: P = V * I * cos(φ) = V * I * PF.
• Calculate the apparent power: S = V * I.
• Calculate the reactive power: Q = V * I * sin(φ).

6. Verification:
• Compare the measured values of active power (P) and power factor (PF) with
the calculated values.
• Calculate the percentage difference between the measured and calculated
values.

6. Observations and Results

Record the following data in a table:

| Parameter | Measured Value | Calculated Value | Unit |

| ------------------ | -------------- | ---------------- | ----- |
| Voltage (V) | | | Volts |
| Current (I) | | | Amps |
| Active Power (P) | | | Watts |
| Power Factor (PF) | | | |
| Apparent Power (S) | | | VA |
| Reactive Power (Q) | | | VAR |

7. Discussion
• Discuss the differences between the measured and calculated values.
• Analyze the sources of error in the experiment (e.g., instrument errors, component
tolerances).
• Explain the significance of power factor in AC circuits.
• Discuss methods for improving power factor (e.g., using capacitors).
• Explain the impact of low power factor on the electrical grid.

8. Precautions
• Ensure that the power supply is switched off before making any connections.
• Double-check the connections before turning on the power supply.
• Use appropriate voltage and current ranges on the measuring instruments.
• Avoid touching any live wires or components.
• Be careful when handling electrical equipment.
• Consult with the instructor if you have any questions or concerns.

9. Conclusion

This experiment provides a practical understanding of measuring power and power factor in
a single-phase AC circuit. By comparing the measured and calculated values, you can gain
insight into the accuracy of the measurement techniques and the importance of considering
power factor in AC circuit analysis. Understanding these concepts is crucial for efficient
energy management and electrical system design.