Power Factor Calculator 3 Phase

3-Phase Power Factor Formula:

\[ PF = \frac{P}{V \times I \times \sqrt{3}} \]

Power Factor (PF):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is 3-Phase Power Factor?

Power Factor (PF) is the ratio of real power (P) to apparent power (S) in an AC electrical system. In 3-phase systems, it's calculated using the line voltage and current. A power factor of 1 indicates perfect efficiency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the 3-phase power factor equation:

\[ PF = \frac{P}{V \times I \times \sqrt{3}} \]

Where:

\( P \) — Real power in watts
\( V \) — Line voltage in volts
\( I \) — Line current in amps
\( \sqrt{3} \) — Constant for 3-phase systems (≈1.732)

Explanation: The equation calculates how effectively electrical power is being converted into useful work output in a 3-phase system.

3. Importance of Power Factor

Details: Power factor is crucial for determining system efficiency, sizing equipment properly, and avoiding penalties from utility companies for low power factor.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter real power in watts, line voltage in volts, and line current in amps. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good power factor value?
A: Ideally 1.0, but values above 0.95 are generally considered good. Below 0.85 is typically poor.

Q2: Why is √3 used in 3-phase calculations?
A: It accounts for the phase difference (120°) between the three phases in a balanced system.

Q3: What causes low power factor?
A: Mainly inductive loads like motors and transformers operating at less than full load.

Q4: How can power factor be improved?
A: Through power factor correction capacitors, synchronous condensers, or using energy-efficient equipment.

Q5: Is this calculator for balanced 3-phase systems only?
A: Yes, this simplified calculation assumes a balanced 3-phase load. Unbalanced systems require more complex calculations.