1. What is a 3-Phase kW to Amps Calculator?

Definition: This calculator converts power in kilowatts (kW) to current in amperes (A) for three-phase electrical systems.

Purpose: It helps electricians, engineers, and technicians determine the current draw of three-phase equipment based on its power rating.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula converts kW to watts (×1000), then divides by the product of voltage, power factor, and the square root of 3 (for three-phase systems).

3. Importance of 3-Phase Current Calculation

Details: Accurate current calculation ensures proper sizing of wires, circuit breakers, and other electrical components to prevent overheating and ensure safety.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the power in kW, system voltage (default 480V), and power factor (default 0.85). All values must be > 0, with PF between 0.01 and 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is power factor and why does it matter?
A: Power factor represents the ratio of real power to apparent power. It affects current calculation because not all current drawn does useful work.

Q2: What voltage should I use?
A: Common three-phase voltages include 208V, 240V, 480V, and 600V. Use the actual system voltage your equipment operates at.

Q3: How does this differ from single-phase calculation?
A: Single-phase omits the √3 factor and uses line-to-neutral voltage. Three-phase accounts for phase relationships between the three conductors.

Q4: What if my power factor is unknown?
A: For motors, 0.85 is typical. For purely resistive loads, use 1.0. When in doubt, consult equipment specifications.

Q5: Does this work for both delta and wye systems?
A: Yes, as long as you use the correct line-to-line voltage for your system configuration.