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Three Phase Current Formula:
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Three phase current refers to the electrical current flowing in a three-phase power system, commonly used in industrial and commercial applications for efficient power distribution and motor operation.
The calculator uses the three phase current formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula calculates the line current in a balanced three-phase system, accounting for the phase relationship between voltage and current through the power factor.
Details: Accurate current calculation is essential for proper sizing of circuit breakers, cables, transformers, and protective devices in three-phase electrical systems to ensure safety and efficiency.
Tips: Enter power in watts, voltage in volts, and power factor as a decimal between 0 and 1. All values must be positive and valid (power > 0, voltage > 0, 0 < power factor ≤ 1).
Q1: What is power factor and why is it important?
A: Power factor represents the ratio of real power to apparent power. It affects system efficiency - lower power factors require higher current for the same real power.
Q2: What are typical power factor values?
A: Power factor ranges from 0 to 1. Industrial motors typically have 0.8-0.9, while resistive loads have 1.0. Poor power factor (below 0.8) may incur penalties.
Q3: Can this formula be used for single-phase systems?
A: No, for single-phase systems use I = P / (V × PF). The √3 factor is specific to three-phase balanced systems.
Q4: What is the significance of √3 in the formula?
A: √3 accounts for the phase difference (120°) between the three phases in a balanced system, relating line voltage to phase voltage.
Q5: How does voltage affect current calculation?
A: Higher voltage results in lower current for the same power, which is why high voltage is preferred for long-distance power transmission to reduce losses.