1. What is a 3-Phase Power Calculator?

Definition: This calculator computes the real power in watts 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 in three-phase AC circuits.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Real power (watts)
• \( V \) — Line-to-line voltage (volts)
• \( I \) — Current (amperes)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (dimensionless, 0 to 1)

Explanation: The √3 factor accounts for the phase difference in three-phase systems, while the power factor represents the ratio of real power to apparent power.

3. Importance of 3-Phase Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is essential for proper equipment sizing, energy efficiency analysis, and electrical system design.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amps, and power factor (default 0.8). Power factor must be between 0 and 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between line and phase voltage?
A: In 3-phase systems, line voltage is between any two lines, while phase voltage is between any line and neutral (line voltage = √3 × phase voltage).

Q2: What is a typical power factor value?
A: Industrial loads typically have 0.8-0.9 PF, while resistive loads have 1.0. Motors might have 0.7-0.85 PF.

Q3: Does this calculate real or apparent power?
A: This calculates real power (watts). For apparent power (VA), omit the power factor.

Q4: Can I use this for single-phase systems?
A: No, for single-phase use P = V × I × PF (without the √3 factor).

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It's theoretically accurate for balanced 3-phase systems. Unbalanced systems require more complex calculations.