1. What is Single Phase AC Power Calculation?

Definition: This calculator computes the real power in kilowatts for single-phase alternating current (AC) electrical systems.

Purpose: It helps electricians, engineers, and technicians determine the actual power consumption in single-phase AC circuits.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( P_{kW} \) — Real power (kilowatts)
• \( V \) — RMS voltage (volts)
• \( I \) — RMS current (amps)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, 0 to 1)

Explanation: The product of voltage and current gives apparent power, which is then multiplied by the power factor to get real power, converted to kilowatts.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation ensures proper circuit design, energy efficiency, and correct equipment sizing.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the voltage in volts, current in amps, and power factor (default 0.8). Power factor must be 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 converted to useful work.

Q2: What's a typical power factor value?
A: For residential loads, 0.8-0.9 is common. Motors may have 0.7-0.8, while purely resistive loads have 1.0.

Q3: Why divide by 1000?
A: This converts watts to kilowatts (1 kW = 1000 W) for more convenient power measurement.

Q4: Does this work for DC circuits?
A: For DC, use P = V × I (power factor is always 1 in purely DC circuits).

Q5: What if I know kW and want to find current?
A: Rearrange the formula: I = (P × 1000) / (V × PF)