1. What is 3-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 3-phase power formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula calculates real power (kW) in a 3-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 low power factor indicates poor electrical efficiency, while a power factor of 1 represents perfect efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amperes, and power factor (typically between 0.8 and 1 for most industrial applications). All values must be valid (voltage > 0, current > 0, 0 ≤ PF ≤ 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., 208V line-to-line = 120V line-to-neutral).

Q2: What is a typical power factor value?
A: Induction motors typically have PF of 0.8-0.9, while resistive loads have PF of 1.0. Poor PF can result in utility penalties.

Q3: How does this differ from single-phase power calculation?
A: Single-phase uses P = V × I × PF, without the √3 factor. 3-phase is more efficient for the same conductor size.

Q4: What if I don't know the power factor?
A: For estimation, use 0.8 for motors or 1.0 for purely resistive loads (heaters, incandescent lighting).

Q5: Can this calculate apparent power (kVA)?
A: No, this calculates real power (kW). For apparent power, omit the PF term in the formula.