1. What is the Power Equation?

The power equation (P = V × I × PF) calculates the real power consumption of an electric motor or load. It accounts for voltage, current, and the power factor which represents the phase difference between voltage and current.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the power equation:

Where:

• \( P \) — Real power in watts (W)
• \( V \) — Voltage in volts (V)
• \( I \) — Current in amperes (A)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, between 0 and 1)

Explanation: The equation calculates the actual power consumed by a load, accounting for the efficiency of power delivery (power factor).

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is crucial for sizing generators, determining electrical system capacity, and ensuring proper operation of electrical equipment.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter voltage in volts, current in amps, and power factor (typically 0.8 for motors). All values must be valid (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: What's a typical power factor for motors?
A: Induction motors typically have power factors between 0.7 and 0.9, with 0.8 being a common default value.

Q3: Why is power factor important for generators?
A: Generators must supply both real power (watts) and reactive power (VARs). Lower power factors require larger generators for the same real power.

Q4: How does this relate to generator sizing?
A: Generators are rated in kVA (apparent power). To get real power capability, multiply kVA rating by power factor.

Q5: What about three-phase power?
A: For three-phase systems, multiply by √3 (1.732) as well: P = V × I × PF × √3.