3-Phase Power Formula:
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Definition: This calculator computes the real power (in kilowatts) for a three-phase electrical system based on voltage, current, and power factor.
Purpose: It helps electricians, engineers, and technicians determine the actual power consumption or generation in three-phase AC systems.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The √3 factor accounts for the phase difference in three-phase systems, converting line-to-line voltage to phase voltage.
Details: Accurate power calculation is essential for proper equipment sizing, energy efficiency analysis, and electrical system design.
Tips: Enter the line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amps, and power factor (default 0.8). All values must be > 0, with power factor between 0 and 1.
Q1: What is power factor?
A: Power factor is the ratio of real power to apparent power, representing how effectively current is being converted into useful work.
Q2: What's a typical power factor value?
A: For motors, 0.8-0.9 is common. Resistive loads have PF=1, while inductive loads have lower PF.
Q3: Is this formula for line or phase values?
A: This uses line-to-line voltage and line current (common measurements in three-phase systems).
Q4: How does this differ from single-phase calculation?
A: Single-phase uses P=VI×PF, without the √3 factor needed for three-phase systems.
Q5: What if I know kW and want to find current?
A: Rearrange the formula: \( Amps = \frac{kW \times 1000}{\sqrt{3} \times Volts \times PF} \)