1. What is the Power Formula?

The power formula (P = V × I × PF) calculates the real power consumed by an electric motor, accounting for both the apparent power (V × I) and the power factor (PF) which represents the phase difference between voltage and current.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the power formula:

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 formula accounts for both the voltage and current as well as the efficiency of power transfer represented by the power factor.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is crucial for determining energy consumption, sizing electrical components, and calculating operating costs for electric motors.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter voltage in volts, current in amps, and power factor (typically between 0.7-1.0). All values must be positive numbers (power factor between 0-1).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical power factor for motors?
A: Induction motors typically have power factors between 0.7-0.9 at full load, lower at partial loads. Synchronous motors can achieve unity (1.0) power factor.

Q2: Why is power factor important?
A: Lower power factors mean higher current is needed for the same real power, increasing energy losses in distribution systems.

Q3: How can power factor be improved?
A: Using power factor correction capacitors, synchronous condensers, or synchronous motors can improve power factor.

Q4: What's the difference between real and apparent power?
A: Real power (watts) does actual work, while apparent power (VA) is the product of voltage and current. The ratio is power factor.

Q5: Should I measure voltage and current simultaneously?
A: For accurate results, voltage and current should be measured at the same time under normal operating conditions.