1. What is 3-Phase Power Calculation?

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

Purpose: It helps electrical engineers, technicians, and electricians determine the actual power consumption in three-phase systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( P_{kW} \) — Real power (kilowatts)
• \( V \) — Line-to-line voltage (volts)
• \( I \) — Current (amperes)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, between 0 and 1)
• \( \sqrt{3} \) — Constant for three-phase systems (≈1.732)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the phase relationship in three-phase systems and converts the result to kilowatts.

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 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: Why is √3 used in the formula?
A: The √3 accounts for the phase difference between the three phases in a balanced three-phase system.

Q3: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Industrial loads typically have PF between 0.8-0.95. Motors at full load might be 0.85, while lightly loaded motors could be 0.5.

Q4: Is this formula for line or phase values?
A: This formula uses line-to-line voltage and line current (not phase voltage/current).

Q5: How does this differ from single-phase calculation?
A: Single-phase uses P=VI×PF/1000 (no √3 factor), as there's no phase relationship to consider.