1. What is 3-Phase Power Calculation?

The 3-phase power calculation converts current (amperes) to power (kilowatts) in three-phase electrical systems. This is essential for electrical engineering, power distribution, and equipment sizing.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the 3-phase power formula:

Where:

• \( V \) — Line-to-line voltage (volts)
• \( I \) — Current (amperes)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, 0 to 1)
• \( \sqrt{3} \) — Constant for 3-phase systems (≈1.732)

Explanation: The formula accounts for all three phases in the system and the phase relationship between voltage and current (power factor).

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Power factor represents the efficiency of power usage. A PF of 1 means all power is real (useful) power, while lower values indicate reactive power. Industrial systems often aim for PF > 0.95.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amperes, and power factor (typically 0.8-1.0). All values must be valid (voltage > 0, current > 0, PF between 0-1).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between line-to-line and line-to-neutral voltage?
A: In 3-phase systems, line-to-line voltage is √3 times line-to-neutral voltage (e.g., 400V line-to-line = 230V line-to-neutral).

Q2: Why is power factor important?
A: Low power factor means higher current is needed for the same real power, increasing energy losses and infrastructure costs.

Q3: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Induction motors typically have PF 0.8-0.9 at full load. Resistive loads have PF=1. Capacitors can improve PF.

Q4: Can I use this for single-phase systems?
A: No, single-phase uses P = V × I × PF (without the √3 factor).

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It's theoretically exact for balanced 3-phase systems. Real-world variations come from voltage fluctuations and unbalanced loads.