Energy Calculation Formula:
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Definition: This calculator converts apparent power (kVA) to energy consumption (kWh) using power factor and time duration.
Purpose: It helps electrical engineers, facility managers, and energy auditors determine actual energy usage from apparent power measurements.
The converter uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The apparent power is multiplied by the power factor to get real power (kW), then multiplied by time to get energy consumption.
Details: Accurate conversion helps in energy billing, generator sizing, electrical system design, and energy efficiency analysis.
Tips: Enter the apparent power in kVA, power factor (default 0.8), and time duration in hours. Power factor must be between 0 and 1.
Q1: What's the difference between kVA and kWh?
A: kVA measures apparent power (voltage × current), while kWh measures energy consumption (power × time).
Q2: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Most electrical systems operate at 0.8-0.95 power factor. Industrial motors might be 0.85, while purely resistive loads are 1.0.
Q3: Why is power factor important?
A: It represents the efficiency of power usage. Lower power factors mean more current is needed for the same real power.
Q4: Can I use this for three-phase systems?
A: Yes, if the kVA value already accounts for three-phase (line-to-line voltage × current × √3).
Q5: How do I find the power factor?
A: Use a power meter or check equipment specifications. Utilities often measure power factor at the service entrance.