Numerical and Experimental Modeling of Star-Connected Three-Phase Capacitors

This paper is aimed at characterizing two possible designs of star-connected three-phase capacitors developed for utilization with the protection schemes of industrial installations. A superficial charge simulation program was employed for estimating the capacitances of one design. The results pointed out the influence of various geometrical parameters on the magnitude of the mutual capacitance between the armatures of any two of the three elementary capacitors of the three-phase unit. The experimental results confirmed the theoretical predictions and validated the advantageous features of a second design, which ensured balanced mutual capacitances between the three phases.