Transformers and Capacitors

Capacitors

Industrial electric power systems use capacitors to enhance efficiency and increase system stability. Technical details about capacitors are beyond the scope of this basic course. However, introductory information is provided.

In its simplest form, a capacitor consists of two metal plates separated by an insulating material called a dielectric. Before we go any further, let’s discuss the behavior of the dielectric material.

Behavior of Dielectric

Insulating substances such as mica are used as dielectrics. Insulating materials have two key characteristics:

a. They do not have many free electrons.

b. They consist of atoms or molecules that are neutral. The term “neutral” indicates that the number of negative-charge carrying entities is equal to the number of positive-charge-carrying entities. These atoms and molecules are randomly distributed throughout the body of the dielectric.