1. What is Electric Motor Power Calculation?

The electric motor power calculation determines the actual power consumption of an electric motor using the formula P = V × I × PF, where P is power in watts, V is voltage, I is current, and PF is the power factor.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the power equation:

Where:

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

Explanation: The equation calculates the real power consumed by an AC electric motor, accounting for the phase difference between voltage and current through the power factor.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is essential for sizing electrical components, determining energy consumption, calculating operating costs, and ensuring proper circuit protection.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter voltage in volts, current in amps, and power factor (typically 0.8 for motors unless known otherwise). All values must be positive numbers.

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 (typically 0.8-0.95 for motors).

Q2: How do I measure voltage and current?
A: Use a multimeter - measure voltage across motor terminals and current through one power lead under normal operating conditions.

Q3: Why is my motor's actual power different from nameplate?
A: Nameplate shows maximum rated power; actual power depends on mechanical load. Light loads draw less current and thus less power.

Q4: Does this work for 3-phase motors?
A: For 3-phase, use \( P = \sqrt{3} \times V \times I \times PF \) where V is line-to-line voltage.

Q5: How can I improve power factor?
A: Add power factor correction capacitors near inductive loads like motors to reduce reactive power.