1. What is Three Phase Power Calculation?

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

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

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, between 0 and 1)
• \( \sqrt{3} \) — Constant for three-phase systems (≈1.732)

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

3. Importance of Three Phase Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is essential for proper equipment sizing, energy efficiency analysis, and electrical system design.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the line-to-line voltage in volts, line 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: What's a typical power factor value?
A: For industrial motors, it's typically 0.8-0.9. Resistive loads have PF=1, while inductive loads have lower PF.

Q3: Is this formula for line or phase values?
A: This formula uses line-to-line voltage and line current (not phase voltage/current).

Q4: What's the difference between real, apparent, and reactive power?
A: Real power (kW) does actual work, apparent power (kVA) is the vector sum, and reactive power (kVAR) creates magnetic fields.

Q5: How do I improve power factor?
A: Add power factor correction capacitors to offset inductive loads and bring PF closer to 1.