3 Phase Power Factor Calculator

Power Factor Formula:

\[ PF = \frac{P_{kW}}{V \times I \times \sqrt{3} / 1000} \]

Power Factor (PF):

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1. What is a 3 Phase Power Factor Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the power factor in a three-phase electrical system based on real power, voltage, and current.

Purpose: It helps electrical engineers and technicians analyze power efficiency in three-phase systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ PF = \frac{P_{kW}}{V \times I \times \sqrt{3} / 1000} \]

Where:

\( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, between 0 and 1)
\( P_{kW} \) — Real power (kilowatts)
\( V \) — Line voltage (volts)
\( I \) — Line current (amps)

Explanation: The power factor is the ratio of real power (kW) to apparent power (kVA) in a three-phase system.

3. Importance of Power Factor Calculation

Details: Power factor indicates how effectively electrical power is being used. A higher power factor (closer to 1) means more efficient power usage.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the real power in kW, line voltage (default 480V), and line current in amps. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good power factor value?
A: Typically, 0.95 or higher is considered good. Utilities often charge penalties for power factors below 0.85.

Q2: Why use √3 in the calculation?
A: The √3 factor accounts for the phase difference in three-phase systems (120° between phases).

Q3: What causes low power factor?
A: Inductive loads like motors and transformers create reactive power that doesn't do real work, lowering power factor.

Q4: How can I improve power factor?
A: Power factor correction capacitors can be added to offset inductive reactance.

Q5: What's the difference between single-phase and three-phase power factor?
A: Three-phase calculations include the √3 factor, while single-phase uses a simpler formula without it.