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 large industrial applications and motors.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the 3-phase power formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Power in watts (W)
• \( V \) — Line-to-line voltage in volts (V)
• \( I \) — Current in amperes (A)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, between 0 and 1)

Explanation: The formula calculates real power in a balanced three-phase system. The √3 factor accounts for the phase difference between the three phases.

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. Low power factor may result in utility penalties.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amps, and power factor (typically between 0.8 and 1 for most industrial applications). 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 a 3-phase system, line-to-line voltage is √3 times the line-to-neutral voltage (e.g., 208V line-to-line is 120V line-to-neutral).

Q2: What is a typical power factor value?
A: Industrial motors typically have PF of 0.8-0.9. Power factor correction can improve this to near 1.0.

Q3: Can this formula be used for unbalanced loads?
A: No, this formula assumes a balanced 3-phase system. Unbalanced systems require more complex calculations.

Q4: How does this differ from single-phase power calculation?
A: Single-phase power is simply P = V × I × PF, without the √3 factor.

Q5: What about reactive power (VAR) or apparent power (VA)?
A: Reactive power = √3 × V × I × sin(θ). Apparent power = √3 × V × I. These require knowing the phase angle θ.