1. What is 3-Phase Power?

Three-phase power is a common method of alternating-current electric power generation, transmission, and distribution. It's more efficient than single-phase power for large loads and motors, providing constant power transfer.

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, 0 to 1)
• \( \sqrt{3} \) — Constant for 3-phase systems (≈1.732)

Explanation: The formula calculates real power in a balanced 3-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 PF of 1 means all power is real (useful) power, while lower PF indicates reactive power that doesn't do useful work but still requires current flow.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amperes, and power factor (0 to 1). For purely resistive loads, use PF=1. For motors, typical PF is 0.8-0.95.

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., 208V line-to-line is 120V line-to-neutral).

Q2: How does this differ from single-phase power calculation?
A: Single-phase uses P = V × I × PF without the √3 factor. Three-phase is more efficient for the same current.

Q3: What causes low power factor?
A: Inductive loads like motors and transformers create phase shift between voltage and current, reducing PF.

Q4: When should I use this calculation?
A: For balanced 3-phase systems. Unbalanced systems require more complex calculations.

Q5: How can I improve power factor?
A: Power factor correction capacitors can be added to counteract inductive reactance.