Power-factor correction of resistance-welding machines by series capacitors

J. W. Butler (General Electric Company, Schenectady, N. Y.): The use of capacitors connected in series with the load, as well as in shunt with the load, is increasing in popularity at a notable rate. This is due in part to both the price reductions effected during the last few years through improved design and production methods, and an increased knowledge of the art of application. At first, shunt capacitors were generally used to improve power factor and series capacitors were used to improve voltage regulation. At present, it is not uncommon to see shunt capacitors switched for voltage regulating purposes; and now Mr. Levoy describes a fundamentally sound method of improving power factor with series capacitors. It is believed that the area between these two uses of the series and shunt capacitor represents a large potential field of application for the capacitor.