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

Explanation: The formula accounts for the phase relationship in three-phase systems and the efficiency represented by the power factor.

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Power factor represents the ratio of real power (doing actual work) to apparent power (total power in the circuit). A higher power factor (closer to 1) indicates more efficient power usage.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amperes, and power factor between 0 and 1. Typical power factors are 0.8-0.95 for industrial equipment.

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: Why is power factor important?
A: Low power factor means more current is required for the same real power, increasing energy losses and infrastructure costs.

Q3: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Induction motors typically have 0.85 PF at full load. Power factor correction can improve this to 0.95 or higher.

Q4: Can this formula be used for single-phase systems?
A: No, for single-phase use P = V × I × PF (without the √3 factor).

Q5: How does this relate to kVA and kW?
A: kW is real power (this calculator), kVA is apparent power (V × I × √3). kW = kVA × PF.