Electrical Panel 3 Phase Load Calculator

3-Phase Power Formula:

\[ P_{kW} = \frac{\sum(V_i \times I_i \times PF_i \times \sqrt{3})}{1000} \]

Power (P_kW): kW

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1. What is a 3-Phase Electrical Panel Load Calculator?

Definition: This calculator computes the total power load in kilowatts (kW) for a 3-phase electrical panel based on voltage, current, and power factor.

Purpose: It helps electricians and engineers determine the power consumption of 3-phase electrical systems for proper panel sizing and load balancing.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

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

Where:

\( P_{kW} \) — Power in kilowatts (kW)
\( V \) — Line voltage (volts)
\( I \) — Current (amps)
\( PF \) — Power factor (0-1)
\( \sqrt{3} \) — 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 Load Calculation

Details: Accurate load calculations ensure electrical safety, prevent circuit overloads, and help design efficient power distribution systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the line voltage (typically 208V, 480V, or 600V), current in amps, and power factor (default 0.85). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Most industrial loads have power factors between 0.8-0.95. Motors typically have 0.85.

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

Q3: How do I measure the current?
A: Use a clamp meter to measure current on one phase conductor (all phases should be balanced).

Q4: What voltage should I use - line or phase?
A: Use line-to-line voltage (e.g., 480V for a 480Y/277V system).

Q5: Does this include reactive power?
A: No, this calculates real power (kW). For apparent power (kVA), omit the power factor.