1. What is Current to kW 3 Phase Calculator?

Definition: This calculator converts current (amps) to power (kilowatts) in a three-phase electrical system.

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula accounts for all three phases in the system and the power factor which represents the phase difference between voltage and current.

3. Importance of 3-Phase Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is essential for proper equipment sizing, energy monitoring, and electrical system design in industrial and commercial applications.

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 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 factor accounts for the phase difference between the three phases in a balanced three-phase system.

Q3: What's a typical power factor value?
A: For motors, PF is typically 0.8-0.9. Resistive loads have PF=1, while inductive loads have lower PF.

Q4: Is this for line-to-line or line-to-neutral voltage?
A: The formula uses line-to-line voltage (also called phase-to-phase voltage).

Q5: Can I use this for single-phase systems?
A: No, for single-phase use P = V × I × PF / 1000 (without the √3 factor).