1. What is Power Factor?

Power Factor (PF) is the ratio of real power (measured in watts) to apparent power (measured in volt-amperes) in an AC electrical system. It indicates how effectively electrical power is being converted into useful work output.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the power factor formula:

Where:

• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, range 0 to 1)
• \( P \) — Real power in watts (W)
• \( S \) — Apparent power in volt-amperes (VA)

Explanation: The power factor represents the phase difference between voltage and current in an AC circuit. A higher power factor indicates more efficient power usage.

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Power factor is crucial in electrical systems because:

• Low power factor increases current flow for the same real power
• Utilities often charge penalties for low power factor
• Improving power factor can reduce energy costs
• Affects the sizing of electrical equipment

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Enter real power (P) in watts
• Enter apparent power (S) in volt-amperes (VA)
• Both values must be positive numbers
• Apparent power should be equal to or greater than real power

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good power factor for motors?
A: Most industrial motors have a power factor between 0.85 and 0.95 at full load. Values below 0.85 typically indicate poor power factor.

Q2: How can I improve power factor?
A: Common methods include adding power factor correction capacitors, using synchronous condensers, or installing more efficient motors.

Q3: What causes low power factor?
A: Inductive loads (like motors and transformers), lightly loaded motors, and harmonic distortion can all contribute to low power factor.

Q4: What's the difference between leading and lagging power factor?
A: Lagging power factor (common with inductive loads) means current lags voltage. Leading power factor (with capacitive loads) means current leads voltage.

Q5: Can power factor be greater than 1?
A: Normally no. If you calculate PF > 1, check your measurements - apparent power should always be equal to or greater than real power.