1. What is a kW to Ampere 3 Phase Calculator?

Definition: This calculator converts power in kilowatts (kW) to current in amperes (A) for three-phase electrical systems.

Purpose: It helps electricians, engineers, and technicians determine the current draw of three-phase equipment based on its power rating.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( I \) — Current (amperes)
• \( P_{kW} \) — Power (kilowatts)
• \( V \) — Voltage (volts)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, between 0 and 1)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the three-phase power relationship, converting kW to watts (×1000) and dividing by the product of voltage, power factor, and √3 (approximately 1.732).

3. Importance of 3-Phase Current Calculation

Details: Accurate current calculation is essential for proper wire sizing, circuit breaker selection, and electrical system design to ensure safety and efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the power in kW, system voltage (default 400V for many industrial systems), and power factor (default 0.8). All values must be > 0, with PF between 0 and 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the √3 factor used?
A: The √3 accounts for the phase difference in three-phase systems, converting between line-to-line and line-to-neutral quantities.

Q2: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Motors typically have PF of 0.8-0.9, while resistive loads have PF=1. The actual value depends on the load type.

Q3: What voltage should I use?
A: Common three-phase voltages are 208V, 400V, 480V, or 600V depending on your region and application.

Q4: Can I use this for single-phase systems?
A: No, use our single-phase calculator as the formula differs (I = P×1000 / (V×PF)).

Q5: How does this relate to real-world applications?
A: This calculation helps determine if existing wiring can handle new equipment or to size components for new installations.