1. What is Three Phase Power?

Three phase power is a common method of alternating current electric power generation, transmission, and distribution. It is used for power delivery in industrial and commercial applications due to its efficiency and ability to provide constant power flow.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the three phase power formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Power in watts (W)
• \( V \) — Line voltage in volts (V)
• \( I \) — Line current in amperes (A)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (dimensionless, 0-1)
• \( \sqrt{3} \) — Mathematical constant (approximately 1.732)

Explanation: The formula calculates the real power in a balanced three-phase AC system, accounting for the phase relationship between voltage and current through the power factor.

3. Importance of Three Phase Power Calculation

Details: Accurate three phase power calculation is essential for electrical system design, equipment sizing, energy management, and ensuring efficient operation of industrial machinery and motors.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter line voltage in volts, line current in amperes, and power factor (between 0 and 1). All values must be valid (voltage > 0, current > 0, power factor 0-1).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between line voltage and phase voltage?
A: Line voltage is the voltage between any two lines, while phase voltage is the voltage between any line and neutral. In star connection, line voltage = √3 × phase voltage.

Q2: Why is power factor important in three phase calculations?
A: Power factor represents the efficiency of power usage. A lower power factor means more current is required to deliver the same amount of real power, leading to higher losses.

Q3: What are typical power factor values?
A: Power factor typically ranges from 0 to 1. Industrial loads often have 0.8-0.9, while purely resistive loads have 1.0. Motors under light load may have lower power factors.

Q4: Can this formula be used for unbalanced three phase systems?
A: This formula is for balanced three phase systems. For unbalanced systems, power must be calculated for each phase separately and summed.

Q5: What is the significance of the √3 factor?
A: The √3 factor accounts for the 120-degree phase displacement between the three phases in a balanced system, converting phase quantities to line quantities.