1. What is 3-Phase Power Calculation?

Definition: This calculator determines the real power (in kilowatts) in a 3-phase electrical system based on voltage, current, and power factor.

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula accounts for all three phases in the system and converts the result to kilowatts.

3. Importance of 3-Phase Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is essential for sizing equipment, determining energy consumption, and ensuring electrical system safety.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amps, and power factor (default 0.8). All values must be > 0, with PF ≤ 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between line-to-line and line-to-neutral voltage?
A: In 3-phase systems, line-to-line voltage is √3 times the line-to-neutral voltage (e.g., 208V vs 120V).

Q2: What is a typical power factor value?
A: Motors typically have PF of 0.8-0.9, while resistive loads have PF=1. The default 0.8 is common for industrial loads.

Q3: Why is √3 used in the formula?
A: The √3 accounts for the phase difference between the three phases in a balanced system.

Q4: Can I use this for single-phase systems?
A: No, for single-phase use P = V × I × PF / 1000 (without the √3 factor).

Q5: How does this differ from kVA calculation?
A: kW is real power (PF included), while kVA is apparent power (without PF: kVA = V × I × √3 / 1000).