1. What is Three 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 industrial applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the three-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, between 0 and 1)

Explanation: The √3 factor accounts for the phase difference in three-phase systems. Power factor represents the ratio of real power to apparent power.

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Power factor indicates how effectively electrical power is being used. A PF of 1 means all power is real power doing useful work, while lower PF values indicate 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 (between 0 and 1). For purely resistive loads, power factor is 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between line-to-line and line-to-neutral voltage?
A: In three-phase systems, line-to-line voltage is √3 times the line-to-neutral voltage.

Q2: Why is three-phase power more efficient?
A: Three-phase systems provide constant power transfer (no power pulsations) and use less conductor material for the same power transfer.

Q3: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Industrial facilities typically aim for 0.95 or higher. Induction motors might have 0.85 PF at full load.

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 power factor affect energy costs?
A: Many utilities charge penalties for low power factor since it increases current requirements without delivering more useful power.