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 heavy industrial loads and large motors.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the three-phase power formula:

Where:

• \( V \) — Line-to-line voltage (volts)
• \( I \) — Current (amperes)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, 0 to 1)
• \( \sqrt{3} \) — Constant for three-phase systems (≈1.732)

Explanation: The formula calculates real power (kW) in a three-phase system accounting for voltage, current, and power factor.

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Power factor represents the ratio of real power to apparent power. A higher power factor (closer to 1) indicates more efficient power usage with less reactive power.

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 three-phase systems, line-to-line voltage is √3 times the line-to-neutral voltage (e.g., 208V line-to-line is 120V line-to-neutral).

Q2: Why is three-phase power more efficient?
A: Three-phase delivers constant power (no power pulsations) and uses less conductor material for the same power transfer compared to single-phase.

Q3: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Induction motors typically have 0.85 PF at full load. Power factor correction can improve this to 0.95 or higher.

Q4: How does this differ from single-phase power calculation?
A: Single-phase uses P = V × I × PF (without the √3 factor). Three-phase provides √3 (about 1.732) times more power with the same current.

Q5: Can I use this for DC systems?
A: No, DC power is simply P = V × I. This calculator is specifically for three-phase AC systems.