1. What is 3-Phase Power Calculation?

The three-phase power calculation determines the real power in a balanced three-phase electrical system. It's essential for designing and analyzing electrical systems in industrial and commercial applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the 3-phase power formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Real 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 accounts for the phase relationship in three-phase systems and the power factor which represents the ratio of real power to apparent power.

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Power factor is crucial in electrical systems as it affects efficiency. A low power factor (typically <0.9) indicates poor utilization of electrical power and may result in additional charges from utility companies.

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 positive numbers with power factor between 0 and 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 between any two phases, while line-to-neutral is between a phase and neutral. Line-to-line is √3 times line-to-neutral.

Q2: What is a typical power factor value?
A: Ideal is 1.0. Industrial loads typically range 0.8-0.95. Motors at full load are about 0.85, while lightly loaded motors can be much lower.

Q3: Can this formula be used for unbalanced loads?
A: No, this formula is for balanced 3-phase systems. Unbalanced systems require more complex calculations.

Q4: How does power factor affect the calculation?
A: Lower power factor means more current is required to deliver the same real power, increasing losses in the system.

Q5: What's the difference between real, reactive, and apparent power?
A: Real power (P) does actual work, reactive power (Q) supports magnetic fields, and apparent power (S) is the vector sum (P + jQ). PF = P/S.