1. What is Three Phase Power?

Definition: Three-phase power is a common method of alternating-current power generation, transmission, and distribution.

Purpose: It's more efficient than single-phase power for delivering large amounts of electricity to motors and industrial equipment.

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 calculates real power in a three-phase AC circuit, accounting for the phase difference between voltage and current.

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Power factor represents the ratio of real power to apparent power. A higher PF (closer to 1) indicates more efficient power usage.

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 and phase voltage?
A: Line voltage is between two phases, while phase voltage is between a phase and neutral. Line voltage = √3 × phase voltage.

Q2: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Industrial loads typically range from 0.75-0.95. Resistive loads have PF=1, while inductive loads have lower PF.

Q3: Why divide by 1000 in the formula?
A: This converts the result from watts to kilowatts (1 kW = 1000 W).

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

Q5: How does this relate to apparent power (kVA)?
A: Apparent power = V × I × √3 / 1000 (without PF). Real power = apparent power × PF.