Three Phase Power Factor Calculator

Power Factor Formula:

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

Power Factor (PF):

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1. What is a Three Phase Power Factor Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the power factor in a three-phase electrical system based on real power, voltage, and current.

Purpose: It helps electrical engineers and technicians assess the efficiency of power usage in three-phase systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

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

Where:

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

Explanation: The power factor is the ratio of real power (kW) to apparent power (kVA) in the system.

3. Importance of Power Factor Calculation

Details: Power factor indicates how effectively electrical power is being used. A higher power factor (closer to 1) means more efficient power usage.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the real power in kW, line voltage (default 480V), and line current in amps. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good power factor value?
A: Ideally 0.95 or higher. Values below 0.85 may incur penalties from utilities.

Q2: Why is √3 used in the formula?
A: It accounts for the phase difference in three-phase systems (120° between phases).

Q3: What causes low power factor?
A: Inductive loads like motors, transformers, and fluorescent lighting without power factor correction.

Q4: How can I improve power factor?
A: Add power factor correction capacitors, use synchronous motors, or reduce idle running of inductive equipment.

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