1. What is a kW kVAr to kVA Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the apparent power (kVA) in an electrical system from the real power (kW) and reactive power (kVAr).

Purpose: It helps electrical engineers and technicians understand the total power in AC circuits where both real and reactive power are present.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( kVA \) — Apparent power (kilovolt-amperes)
• \( P_{kW} \) — Real power (kilowatts)
• \( kVAr \) — Reactive power (kilovolt-amperes reactive)

Explanation: This is the Pythagorean theorem applied to the power triangle, where apparent power is the hypotenuse.

3. Importance of kVA Calculation

Details: Knowing the apparent power is crucial for sizing electrical equipment like transformers, generators, and circuit breakers.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the real power in kW and reactive power in kVAr. Both values must be ≥ 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between kW, kVAr and kVA?
A: kW is real/active power, kVAr is reactive power, and kVA is apparent power (the vector sum of both).

Q2: What is the power factor in this context?
A: Power factor (PF) = kW/kVA. It can be calculated from the results of this calculator.

Q3: When would kVAr be zero?
A: In purely resistive loads, where all power is real power (kW) with no reactive component.

Q4: Can kVA ever be less than kW?
A: No, kVA is always equal to or greater than kW, as it's the hypotenuse of the power triangle.

Q5: How does this relate to three-phase power?
A: The same formula applies, but make sure all values are per-phase or properly adjusted for three-phase totals.