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3-Phase Power Formula:
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The 3-phase power formula calculates the real power in a balanced three-phase electrical system. It's essential for electrical engineering, power distribution, and industrial applications where three-phase power is commonly used.
The calculator uses the 3-phase power formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula accounts for the phase difference in three-phase systems (√3 factor) and the efficiency of power transfer (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.
Tips: Enter line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amperes, and power factor (between 0 and 1). All values must be positive numbers with power factor between 0 and 1.
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. This calculator uses line-to-line voltage.
Q2: What is a typical power factor value?
A: Industrial systems typically aim for 0.95 or higher. Motors might have 0.8-0.9 PF, while purely resistive loads have PF=1.
Q3: How does this differ from single-phase power calculation?
A: Single-phase power is P = V × I × PF without the √3 factor. Three-phase systems are more efficient for power transmission.
Q4: What if my system is unbalanced?
A: This formula assumes balanced loads. For unbalanced systems, calculate each phase separately and sum the results.
Q5: Why is real power important?
A: Real power (in watts) represents the actual work-performing capability of the electrical system, unlike apparent power (VA) which includes reactive components.