1. What is 3-Phase Power Calculation?

Definition: This calculator computes the real power in kilowatts (kW) for a balanced three-phase electrical system.

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula accounts for all three phases and the phase difference between voltage and current.

3. Importance of 3-Phase Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is essential for sizing electrical equipment, determining energy consumption, and ensuring system efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the line-to-line voltage in volts, line current in amps, and power factor (default 0.8). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between line and phase voltage?
A: Line voltage is between any two lines, while phase voltage is between any line and neutral. In star systems, line voltage = √3 × phase voltage.

Q2: 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 (0 to 1).

Q3: Why √3 in the formula?
A: The √3 factor accounts for the 120° phase shift between the three phases in a balanced system.

Q4: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Motors typically have 0.8-0.9 PF, resistive loads have 1.0 PF, and poor power factors are below 0.7.

Q5: Can I calculate apparent power with this?
A: No, this calculates real power. For apparent power (kVA), omit the power factor from the calculation.