Electrical Power Calculator 3 Phase

Three-Phase AC Power Formula:

\[ P = \sqrt{3} \times V \times I \times PF \]

Three-Phase Power (P):

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1. What is Three-Phase AC Power?

Three-phase AC power is a common method of alternating current electric power generation, transmission, and distribution. It is used for power delivery in a vast majority of commercial and industrial applications due to its efficiency and power density.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the three-phase power formula:

\[ P = \sqrt{3} \times V \times I \times PF \]

Where:

\( P \) — Three-phase power (Watts)
\( V \) — Line voltage (Volts)
\( I \) — Current (Amperes)
\( PF \) — Power factor (dimensionless, 0-1)
\( \sqrt{3} \) — Mathematical constant ≈ 1.732

Explanation: The formula calculates the real power in a balanced three-phase system, accounting for the phase relationship between voltage and current through the 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, while lower power factors result in higher energy losses and utility penalties in industrial settings.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line voltage in volts, current in amperes, and power factor as a decimal between 0 and 1. All values must be positive, with power factor ranging from 0 to 1 inclusive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between line voltage and phase voltage?
A: Line voltage is the voltage between any two lines, while phase voltage is between any line and neutral. In three-phase systems, line voltage is √3 times phase voltage.

Q2: Why is √3 used in three-phase calculations?
A: √3 accounts for the 120-degree phase separation between the three phases in a balanced system, converting between line and phase quantities.

Q3: What is a typical power factor value?
A: Industrial motors typically have 0.8-0.9 PF, while resistive loads have 1.0. Utilities often require minimum power factors of 0.85-0.95.

Q4: Can this formula be used for unbalanced systems?
A: This formula assumes a balanced three-phase system. For unbalanced systems, power must be calculated for each phase separately and summed.

Q5: How does power factor affect electrical bills?
A: Many utilities charge power factor penalties for industrial customers with low power factors, as it increases current requirements and system losses.