1. What is 3-Phase Power?

Three-phase power is a common method of alternating-current electric power generation, transmission, and distribution. It's more efficient than single-phase power for large industrial motors and other heavy loads.

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, between 0 and 1)
• \( \sqrt{3} \) — Constant for 3-phase systems (≈1.732)

Explanation: The formula calculates real power in a balanced 3-phase system, accounting for the phase difference between voltage and current.

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Power factor represents the ratio of real power flowing to the load to the apparent power. 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 (0 to 1). Typical power factors are 0.8-0.95 for industrial loads.

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., 400V line-to-line = 230V line-to-neutral).

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

Q3: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Resistive loads have PF=1, motors typically 0.8-0.9, and heavily inductive loads can be 0.5 or lower.

Q4: Can this formula be used for unbalanced loads?
A: No, this formula assumes a balanced 3-phase system. Unbalanced systems require more complex calculations.

Q5: How does this differ from single-phase power calculation?
A: Single-phase power is P=V×I×PF (without the √3 factor), but 3-phase can deliver more power with less conductor material.