1. What is kVA to kW Conversion?

kVA (kilovolt-amperes) to kW (kilowatts) conversion is used to calculate real power from apparent power in electrical systems. The power factor (PF) represents the ratio of real power to apparent power.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the power conversion formula:

Where:

• \( kVA \) — Apparent power in kilovolt-amperes
• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, between 0 and 1)
• \( kW \) — Real power in kilowatts

Explanation: The power factor accounts for the phase difference between voltage and current in AC circuits. A PF of 1 means all power is real power (kW = kVA).

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Power factor is crucial in electrical systems as it affects efficiency. Low power factor means more current is required to deliver the same real power, increasing losses.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter kVA value (must be positive) and power factor (between 0 and 1). Typical power factors: 0.8 for motors, 0.95+ for power-corrected systems, 1.0 for purely resistive loads.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between kVA and kW?
A: kVA measures apparent power (voltage × current), while kW measures real power (actual work done). The ratio is the power factor.

Q2: Why is power factor important?
A: Utilities often charge penalties for low power factor as it requires larger equipment and causes more line losses.

Q3: What's a good power factor?
A: Generally 0.95 or higher is considered good. Below 0.85 may incur penalties.

Q4: Can power factor be greater than 1?
A: No, power factor ranges from 0 to 1. Values above 1 would indicate measurement error.

Q5: How can power factor be improved?
A: Using power factor correction capacitors, synchronous condensers, or avoiding lightly loaded motors.