Calculation of 3 Phase Power for Dummies

3-Phase Power Formula:

\[ P = \sqrt{3} \times V \times I \times PF \]

3-Phase Power (P):

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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 delivering large amounts of electrical energy to motors and other heavy loads.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the 3-phase power formula:

\[ P = \sqrt{3} \times V \times I \times PF \]

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)
\( \sqrt{3} \) — 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 3-Phase Power Calculation

Details: Accurate 3-phase power calculation is crucial for sizing electrical equipment, determining energy consumption, and ensuring proper operation of industrial machinery.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amperes, and power factor (typically between 0.8 and 1 for most industrial loads). All values must be valid (voltage > 0, current > 0, PF between 0-1).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is 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. The calculator uses line-to-line voltage.

Q2: What is power factor and why is it important?
A: Power factor represents the ratio of real power to apparent power. A lower PF means more current is needed to deliver the same real power.

Q3: When would I use this calculation?
A: This is used for sizing transformers, circuit breakers, and conductors in 3-phase systems, and for calculating energy consumption.

Q4: What's the difference between real, reactive, and apparent power?
A: This calculator gives real power (watts). Apparent power (VA) would omit the PF term, and reactive power (VAR) would use the sine of the phase angle.

Q5: How does this compare to single-phase power calculation?
A: Single-phase power is simply V×I×PF. Three-phase power is √3 times that for the same line-to-line voltage and current.