1. What is 3-Phase Power Calculation?

The 3-phase power calculation converts current (amps) to power (watts) in a three-phase electrical system. This is essential for sizing electrical equipment, determining power consumption, and calculating energy costs in industrial and commercial settings.

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 amps (A)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, 0 to 1)

Explanation: The √3 factor accounts for the phase difference in three-phase systems. The power factor adjusts for the phase difference between voltage and current.

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Power factor represents the efficiency of power usage. A PF of 1 means all power is effectively used (resistive loads), while lower PF indicates reactive power (inductive/capacitive loads). Utilities often charge penalties for low power factor.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amps, and power factor (0 to 1). For purely resistive loads, use PF=1. For motors, typical PF ranges from 0.8 to 0.95.

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 (e.g., 208V line-to-line = 120V line-to-neutral).

Q2: Why is power factor important?
A: Low power factor means higher current is needed for the same real power, increasing energy losses and requiring larger conductors.

Q3: How can I improve power factor?
A: Power factor correction capacitors can be added to offset inductive loads (like motors).

Q4: Does this work for DC or single-phase systems?
A: No, for DC use P=V×I. For single-phase AC, use P=V×I×PF (without √3 factor).

Q5: What's typical power factor for common equipment?
A: Motors (0.8-0.9), fluorescent lighting (0.7-0.9), resistance heating (1.0), welding machines (0.3-0.6).