1. What is 3-Phase Power Calculation?

The 3-phase power calculation is used to determine the real power (in watts) consumed by a 3-phase induction motor or other 3-phase electrical load. It takes into account the voltage, current, and power factor of the system.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the 3-phase power formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula calculates the actual power being used by the motor, accounting for the phase relationship between voltage and current.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is essential for sizing electrical equipment, determining energy consumption, calculating efficiency, and ensuring proper motor operation.

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 (voltage > 0, current > 0, 0 < PF ≤ 1).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is power factor?
A: Power factor is the ratio of real power to apparent power, representing how effectively current is being converted into useful work.

Q2: Why is √3 used in the formula?
A: The √3 factor accounts for the phase difference between the three phases in a balanced 3-phase system.

Q3: What's typical power factor for motors?
A: Induction motors typically have power factors between 0.8 and 0.95 when fully loaded, lower when lightly loaded.

Q4: Is this formula for line or phase values?
A: This formula uses line-to-line voltage and line current (not phase values).

Q5: How does this differ from single-phase power?
A: Single-phase power is simply V×I×PF, without the √3 factor needed for 3-phase systems.