Three Phase Electrical Panel Load Calculator

Three Phase Power Formula:

\[ P_{kW} = \frac{\sum(V_i \times I_i \times PF_i \times \sqrt{3})}{1000} \]

Power (P_kW): kW

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1. What is a Three Phase Electrical Panel Load Calculator?

Definition: This calculator computes the total power load in kilowatts (kW) for a three-phase electrical panel based on voltage, current, and power factor.

Purpose: It helps electricians and engineers determine the power consumption of three-phase electrical systems for proper panel sizing and load balancing.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ P_{kW} = \frac{V \times I \times PF \times \sqrt{3}}{1000} \]

Where:

\( P_{kW} \) — Power in kilowatts (kW)
\( V \) — Line voltage (volts)
\( I \) — Current (amps)
\( PF \) — Power factor (0-1)
\( \sqrt{3} \) — Constant for three-phase systems (≈1.732)

Explanation: The formula accounts for all three phases in the system and converts the result to kilowatts.

3. Importance of Three Phase Load Calculation

Details: Accurate load calculations ensure proper equipment sizing, prevent circuit overloads, and maintain system efficiency in commercial and industrial electrical systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the line voltage (typically 208V, 240V, 480V), current in amps, and power factor (default 0.85). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is power factor and why does it matter?
A: Power factor (0-1) represents efficiency of power usage. Lower values indicate more reactive power (wasted energy).

Q2: What's the difference between line and phase voltage?
A: Line voltage is between any two phases, while phase voltage is between a phase and neutral. In balanced systems, line voltage = phase voltage × √3.

Q3: When would I use this calculation?
A: When sizing transformers, circuit breakers, or wiring for three-phase equipment like motors, HVAC systems, or industrial machinery.

Q4: How do I find the current if I only know the power?
A: Rearrange the formula: \( I = \frac{P \times 1000}{V \times PF \times \sqrt{3}} \)

Q5: Does this work for single-phase systems?
A: No, for single-phase use \( P = V \times I \times PF / 1000 \) (without the √3 factor).