Three Phase Power Formula

3-Phase Power Formula:

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

Power (P_kW): kW

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Three Phase Power?

Definition: Three-phase power is a common method of alternating-current electric power generation, transmission, and distribution.

Purpose: It's more efficient than single-phase power for operating industrial motors and heavy equipment.

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-to-line voltage (volts)
\( I \) — Current (amps)
\( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, between 0 and 1)
\( \sqrt{3} \) — Constant for three-phase systems (≈1.732)

Explanation: The formula calculates real power in a three-phase system accounting for phase relationships.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation helps in sizing equipment, determining energy usage, and ensuring electrical system safety.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line-to-line 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: What's a typical power factor value?
A: For 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-to-line or line-to-neutral voltage?
A: This formula uses line-to-line voltage (the voltage between any two phases).

Q4: What if I have line-to-neutral voltage?
A: Multiply line-to-neutral voltage by √3 to get line-to-line voltage before using this formula.

Q5: Why divide by 1000?
A: This converts the result from watts to kilowatts (1 kW = 1000 W).