3 Phase Power Calculator kW

3-Phase Power Formula:

\[ kW = \frac{\sqrt{3} \times V \times I \times PF}{1000} \]

Power (kW):

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1. What is 3-Phase Power?

Three-phase power is a common method of alternating-current electric power generation, transmission, and distribution. It is more efficient than single-phase power for heavy industrial loads and large motors.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the 3-phase power formula:

\[ kW = \frac{\sqrt{3} \times V \times I \times PF}{1000} \]

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 calculates real power (kW) in a balanced three-phase system, accounting for the phase difference between voltage and current.

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Power factor represents the ratio of real power to apparent power. A higher power factor (closer to 1) indicates more efficient power usage, while lower values indicate reactive power losses.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amperes, and power factor (typically between 0.8 and 1 for industrial loads). All values must be valid (voltage > 0, current > 0, 0 ≤ PF ≤ 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 the line-to-neutral voltage (e.g., 400V line-to-line = 230V line-to-neutral).

Q2: What is a typical power factor value?
A: Induction motors typically have 0.85 PF at full load, while resistive loads have 1.0 PF. Power factor correction can improve values to 0.95+.

Q3: How does this differ from single-phase power calculation?
A: Single-phase uses P = V × I × PF, without the √3 factor. Three-phase delivers more power with less conductor material.

Q4: When would I need this calculation?
A: Useful for sizing electrical equipment, calculating energy consumption, or determining circuit capacity in industrial settings.

Q5: What about unbalanced three-phase systems?
A: This calculator assumes balanced loads. For unbalanced systems, calculate each phase separately and sum the results.