1. What is Three Phase Power?

Three-phase power is a common method of alternating current electric power generation, transmission, and distribution. It is used for power delivery to motors and other large loads.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the three-phase power formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Power in watts
• \( V \) — Line-to-line voltage in volts
• \( I \) — Current in amps
• \( \sqrt{3} \) — Constant for three-phase systems (≈1.732)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (0 to 1)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the phase relationship in three-phase systems and the power factor which represents the ratio of real power to apparent power.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is crucial for sizing electrical equipment, determining energy consumption, and ensuring system efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amps, and power factor (typically 0.8-0.95 for motors). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is typical power factor for motors?
A: Induction motors typically have power factors between 0.8 and 0.9 at full load, lower at partial loads.

Q2: Is this formula for line or phase values?
A: This formula uses line-to-line voltage and line current (not phase values).

Q3: What's the difference between real and apparent power?
A: Real power (watts) does actual work, while apparent power (VA) includes reactive power that doesn't do work but must be supplied.

Q4: When would I need to calculate three-phase power?
A: When sizing circuit breakers, wiring, transformers, or determining motor loads and energy usage.

Q5: How does power factor affect the calculation?
A: Lower power factor means more current is required to deliver the same real power, increasing system losses.