1. What is 3-Phase Power Calculation?

Definition: This calculator computes the real power (in kilowatts) in a 3-phase electrical system based on voltage, current, and power factor.

Purpose: Essential for electrical engineers, technicians, and facility managers to determine power consumption in three-phase systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

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

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

3. Importance of 3-Phase Power Calculation

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

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amps, and power factor (default 0.8). All values must be > 0, with PF between 0 and 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between line and phase voltage?
A: Line voltage is between any two lines, while phase voltage is between any line and neutral. For delta systems they're equal, for wye systems line voltage is √3 times phase voltage.

Q2: What is power factor?
A: Power factor (0-1) represents the ratio of real power to apparent power, indicating how effectively current is being converted to useful work.

Q3: When would I use this calculation?
A: When sizing transformers, circuit breakers, or calculating energy consumption for motors, HVAC systems, or industrial equipment.

Q4: How do I measure current in a 3-phase system?
A: Use a clamp meter on one conductor (for balanced loads) or measure all three phases and average them.

Q5: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Motors typically have 0.8-0.9 PF, lighting 0.9-1.0, and heavily inductive loads may be 0.5 or lower.