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3 Phase Power Formula:
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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. The power in a three-phase system is calculated using the voltage, current, and power factor.
The calculator uses the three-phase power formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula accounts for the three-phase nature of the system with the √3 factor (approximately 1.732), which relates line-to-line voltage to phase voltage in a balanced three-phase system.
Details: Accurate power calculation is essential for sizing generators, determining electrical load capacity, designing electrical systems, and ensuring efficient energy use in three-phase systems.
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, power factor between 0-1).
Q1: What is the difference between line-to-line and phase voltage?
A: In a three-phase system, line-to-line voltage is between any two phases, while phase voltage is between any phase and neutral. For a balanced system, line-to-line voltage equals phase voltage times √3.
Q2: What is power factor and why is it important?
A: Power factor (cos φ) is the ratio of real power to apparent power. It accounts for phase difference between voltage and current. A lower power factor means more current is required for the same real power.
Q3: What is a typical power factor value?
A: Industrial loads typically have power factors between 0.8 and 0.95. Resistive loads have power factor of 1, while inductive loads (motors) have lower power factors.
Q4: Can this formula be used for single-phase systems?
A: No, for single-phase systems use P = V × I × cos(φ) without the √3 factor.
Q5: How does this relate to apparent power (kVA)?
A: Apparent power (S) = √3 × V × I (without power factor). Real power (P) = S × cos(φ).