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 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 (volts)
• \( I \) — 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 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 lower power factor means more current is required to deliver the same amount of real power, leading to inefficiencies in the system.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amperes, and power factor (between 0 and 1). 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. This calculator uses line-to-line voltage.

Q2: What is a typical power factor value?
A: For resistive loads it's 1.0, for motors typically 0.8-0.9, and for heavily inductive loads it can be 0.5 or lower.

Q3: Can I use this for single-phase calculations?
A: No, for single-phase use P = V × I × PF (without the √3 factor).

Q4: Why is three-phase power more efficient?
A: Three-phase systems deliver power more consistently with less conductor material compared to single-phase.

Q5: How do I improve power factor?
A: Power factor correction capacitors can be added to counteract inductive loads and improve the power factor.