kW to Amp Conversion Calculator

Power to Current Formula:

\[ I = \frac{kW \times 1000}{V} \quad \text{(Single-phase)} \] \[ I = \frac{kW \times 1000}{V \times \sqrt{3}} \quad \text{(Three-phase)} \]

Current (I):

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1. What is kW to Amp Conversion?

The kW to Amp conversion calculates electrical current (amperes) from power (kilowatts) and voltage. This is essential for electrical system design, circuit protection, and equipment selection.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses these formulas:

\[ \text{Single-phase: } I = \frac{kW \times 1000}{V} \] \[ \text{Three-phase: } I = \frac{kW \times 1000}{V \times \sqrt{3}} \]

Where:

\( I \) — Current in amperes (A)
\( kW \) — Power in kilowatts
\( V \) — Voltage in volts
\( \sqrt{3} \) — Approximately 1.732 (three-phase factor)

Explanation: The formulas convert kilowatts to watts (×1000) then divide by voltage. Three-phase systems account for phase relationships with the √3 factor.

3. Importance of Current Calculation

Details: Accurate current calculation is crucial for selecting proper wire sizes, circuit breakers, and ensuring electrical safety. It helps prevent overheating and equipment damage.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter power in kW, voltage in volts, and select phase type. All values must be positive numbers. For three-phase systems, use line-to-line voltage.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between single-phase and three-phase?
A: Single-phase has one AC waveform, used in most homes. Three-phase has three waveforms 120° apart, common in industrial/commercial settings.

Q2: Why multiply by 1000 in the formula?
A: This converts kilowatts (kW) to watts (W) since 1 kW = 1000 W.

Q3: What voltage should I use for three-phase calculations?
A: Use the line-to-line voltage (e.g., 208V, 400V, 480V) not phase-to-neutral voltage.

Q4: Does power factor affect this calculation?
A: These formulas assume unity power factor (1.0). For non-unity PF, divide by power factor.

Q5: Can I use this for DC calculations?
A: Yes, for DC systems use the single-phase formula (no √3 needed).