Three-Phase Power Calculator

Three-Phase Power Formula:

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

Three-Phase Power (P):

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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 industrial and commercial applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the three-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 three-phase systems (≈1.732)

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

3. Importance of Three-Phase Power Calculation

Details: Accurate three-phase power calculation is essential for sizing electrical equipment, determining power consumption, calculating energy costs, and ensuring system efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between line-to-line and line-to-neutral voltage?
A: In three-phase systems, line-to-line voltage is between any two phases, while line-to-neutral is between one phase and neutral. Line-to-line is √3 times line-to-neutral.

Q2: What is power factor and why is it important?
A: Power factor is the ratio of real power to apparent power (0 to 1). A lower PF means more current is needed for the same real power, increasing losses.

Q3: Can this formula be used for unbalanced three-phase systems?
A: No, this simplified formula is for balanced systems. Unbalanced systems require more complex calculations.

Q4: How does three-phase power compare to single-phase?
A: Three-phase provides more power with less conductor material, more constant power delivery, and is better for large motors.

Q5: What are typical power factor values?
A: Ideal is 1.0. Motors typically 0.8-0.9, fluorescent lights 0.7-0.9. Capacitors can improve low power factors.