1. What is 3-Phase Power?

Three-phase power is a common method of alternating-current electric power generation, transmission, and distribution. It's more efficient than single-phase power for motors and heavy loads because the power transfer is constant.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the 3-phase power formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Power in watts
• \( V \) — Line-to-line voltage in volts
• \( I \) — Current in amps
• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, between 0 and 1)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the three-phase nature of the power system with the √3 factor (approximately 1.732).

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. Industrial motors typically have power factors between 0.8 and 0.9.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line-to-line voltage in volts, current in amps, and power factor (default is 0.85). All values must be positive (voltage > 0, current > 0, 0 < PF ≤ 1).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between line-to-line and line-to-neutral voltage?
A: In 3-phase systems, line-to-line voltage is √3 times the line-to-neutral voltage. This calculator uses line-to-line voltage.

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

Q3: What is a typical power factor for motors?
A: Induction motors typically have power factors between 0.8-0.9 at full load, lower at partial loads.

Q4: Can I use this for single-phase calculations?
A: No, for single-phase use P = V × I × PF (without the √3 factor).

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides theoretical power consumption. Actual power may vary due to efficiency losses, harmonics, and other factors.