Single Phase AC Power Formula

Single-Phase Power Formula:

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

Power (P_kW): kW

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1. What is Single Phase AC Power?

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

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

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

Where:

\( P_{kW} \) — Real power (kilowatts)
\( V \) — Voltage (volts)
\( I \) — Current (amperes)
\( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, between 0 and 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 kW by dividing by 1000.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation ensures proper sizing of electrical components, energy efficiency analysis, and cost estimation.

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 being converted into useful work.

Q2: Typical power factor values?
A: Residential: 0.8-0.95, Industrial: 0.7-0.9, Pure resistive load: 1.0.

Q3: Why divide by 1000?
A: To convert watts to kilowatts (1 kW = 1000 W) for more practical units.

Q4: Does this work for DC circuits?
A: For DC, use P = V × I (power factor is 1.0 for DC).

Q5: How to improve power factor?
A: Use power factor correction capacitors or redesign systems to reduce reactive power.