1. What is 3-Phase Power Calculation?

The 3-phase power calculation is used to determine the real power in a balanced three-phase system. It's essential for sizing motors, transformers, and other electrical equipment in industrial applications.

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 (0 to 1)

Explanation: The √3 factor accounts for the phase difference in three-phase systems. The power factor represents the ratio of real power to apparent power.

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Power factor is crucial in electrical systems as it affects efficiency. A low power factor means higher currents are needed to deliver the same amount of real power, leading to increased losses.

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's the difference between line and phase voltage?
A: In a 3-phase system, line voltage is between two lines, while phase voltage is between a line and neutral. For star connections, V_line = √3 × V_phase.

Q2: How does power factor affect motor performance?
A: Lower power factor means the motor draws more current for the same power output, increasing losses and reducing efficiency.

Q3: What's typical power factor for induction motors?
A: Typically 0.85 at full load, but varies with load - lower at light loads, higher near full load.

Q4: Can this formula be used for unbalanced loads?
A: No, this formula assumes a balanced 3-phase system. Unbalanced systems require more complex calculations.

Q5: How to improve power factor?
A: Power factor correction capacitors can be added to reduce reactive power and improve overall power factor.