Power Formula for 3 Phase

3-Phase Power Formula:

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

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's more efficient than single-phase power for large loads and motors, providing constant power transfer.

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

Explanation: The formula calculates real power in a balanced three-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 to apparent power. A PF of 1 means all power is real (useful) power, while lower 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 (typically 0.8-0.95 for industrial loads). All values must be valid (voltage > 0, current > 0, PF between 0-1).

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: How does power factor affect power calculation?
A: Lower power factor means more current is required for the same real power, increasing losses in the system.

Q3: When is this formula not accurate?
A: For unbalanced loads, harmonic distortion, or when voltage and current waveforms are significantly non-sinusoidal.

Q4: What's typical power factor for different loads?
A: Motors: 0.8-0.9, Incandescent lights: 1.0, Fluorescent lights: 0.7-0.9, Induction furnaces: 0.6-0.8.

Q5: How can power factor be improved?
A: Using power factor correction capacitors, synchronous condensers, or selecting equipment with better PF characteristics.