1. What is 3-Phase Power Calculation?

The 3-phase power calculation converts current (amps) to power (kilowatts) in three-phase electrical systems, which are commonly used in industrial and commercial applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the 3-phase power formula:

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)
• 1000 — Conversion factor from watts to kilowatts

Explanation: The formula accounts for the phase relationship in 3-phase systems and the power factor which represents the ratio of real power to apparent power.

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Power factor (PF) is crucial in AC circuits as it represents the efficiency of power usage. A PF of 1 means all power is real power (kW), while lower PF indicates reactive power components.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amperes, and power factor (typically between 0.8-1 for most 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 between any two phases, while line-to-neutral is between a phase and neutral. The calculator uses line-to-line voltage.

Q2: Why is √3 used in the formula?
A: The √3 factor accounts for the 120-degree phase difference between the three phases in a balanced system.

Q3: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Motors typically have PF of 0.8-0.9, resistive loads have PF=1. Poor PF (below 0.8) may require correction.

Q4: Can I use this for single-phase calculations?
A: No, for single-phase use: kW = (V × I × PF)/1000 (without the √3 factor).

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It's accurate for balanced 3-phase systems. For unbalanced loads or distorted waveforms, more complex calculations are needed.