1. What is the Power Calculation Formula?

The power calculation formula estimates the real power output of a generator based on voltage, current, and power factor. For three-phase systems, an additional √3 factor is applied to account for the phase difference.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the power formula:

For three-phase systems:

Where:

• \( P \) — Real power (watts)
• \( V \) — Voltage (volts)
• \( I \) — Current (amperes)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, 0 to 1)
• \( \sqrt{3} \) — Approximately 1.732 (three-phase multiplier)

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Power factor represents the ratio of real power to apparent power. A lower power factor means more current is required to deliver the same amount of real power, which can affect generator sizing and efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter voltage in volts, current in amperes, and power factor (typically between 0.8 and 1 for generators). Select single-phase or three-phase configuration.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical power factor for generators?
A: Most generators operate at power factors between 0.8 and 1.0. Industrial generators are often rated at 0.8 PF.

Q2: Why multiply by √3 for three-phase?
A: The √3 accounts for the phase difference between the three voltage waveforms in a balanced three-phase system.

Q3: What's the difference between real and apparent power?
A: Real power (watts) does actual work, while apparent power (VA) is the product of voltage and current. The ratio is the power factor.

Q4: How does power factor affect generator sizing?
A: Lower power factors require larger generators to deliver the same real power due to higher current requirements.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for AC and DC?
A: For DC systems, use PF=1. For AC systems, the power factor must be considered.