Three Phase Power Formula:
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The three phase power calculation determines the real power (kilowatts) in a three-phase electrical system. It accounts for voltage, current, power factor, and the √3 constant that represents the phase relationship in three-phase systems.
The calculator uses the three phase power formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the real power in a three-phase system by considering the phase relationship (√3) and the power factor, which represents the efficiency of power usage.
Details: Accurate kilowatt calculation is essential for electrical system design, load balancing, energy consumption analysis, and determining appropriate circuit protection and conductor sizing.
Tips: Enter voltage in volts, current in amperes, and power factor (value between 0 and 1). All values must be valid positive numbers with power factor between 0 and 1.
Q1: What is power factor and why is it important?
A: Power factor represents the ratio of real power to apparent power. It indicates how effectively electrical power is being used, with 1.0 being perfect efficiency.
Q2: When should I use this three-phase calculation?
A: Use this calculation for three-phase AC electrical systems, which are common in industrial and commercial applications for motors, heaters, and other heavy equipment.
Q3: What is the difference between kW and kVA?
A: kW represents real power (actual work done), while kVA represents apparent power (the product of voltage and current). The relationship is kW = kVA × PF.
Q4: Why is √3 used in three-phase calculations?
A: √3 accounts for the 120-degree phase difference between the three phases in a balanced three-phase system, converting line-to-line voltage to phase voltage.
Q5: What are typical power factor values?
A: Power factor typically ranges from 0.7 to 1.0. Induction motors often have 0.8-0.9 PF, while resistive loads like heaters have 1.0 PF. Low power factor indicates inefficient power usage.