1. What is 3-Phase Power Factor?

Definition: Power factor is the ratio of real power (kW) to apparent power (kVA) in an AC electrical system.

Purpose: It measures how effectively electrical power is being used in three-phase systems, with 1.0 being ideal.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, typically 0.8-0.95)
• \( P_{kW} \) — Real power in kilowatts
• \( V \) — Line-to-line voltage in volts
• \( I \) — Current in amps
• \( \sqrt{3} \) — Constant for three-phase systems

Explanation: The formula calculates how much of the apparent power is actually doing useful work.

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Low power factor increases system losses and may result in utility penalties. Maintaining power factor near 1.0 improves efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the real power in kW, line-to-line voltage in volts, and current in amps. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good power factor value?
A: Most utilities require power factor of 0.9 or higher. Industrial systems typically aim for 0.95 or better.

Q2: Why does three-phase use √3 in the formula?
A: The √3 accounts for the phase difference between the three phases in a balanced system.

Q3: What causes low power factor?
A: Inductive loads like motors and transformers create reactive power that lowers power factor.

Q4: How can I improve power factor?
A: Power factor correction capacitors can be added to counteract inductive loads.

Q5: What's the difference between leading and lagging power factor?
A: Lagging (most common) means current lags voltage (inductive loads). Leading means current leads voltage (capacitive loads).