Formula Used:
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The Power Factor Angle (Φ) is defined as the difference between the phasor of apparent and real power (in degrees) or between voltage and current in an AC circuit. It represents the phase shift between voltage and current waveforms in an electrical system.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the phase difference using the inverse cosine function based on the relationship between real power, voltage, and current in a single-phase 3-wire system.
Details: Calculating the power factor angle is crucial for understanding the efficiency of power transmission, optimizing energy usage, and maintaining proper power factor correction in electrical systems.
Tips: Enter power transmitted in watts, voltage in volts, and current in amperes. All values must be positive and non-zero. The result is given in degrees.
Q1: What is the range of valid values for the power factor angle?
A: The power factor angle typically ranges from 0° to 90°, where 0° represents perfect power factor (unity) and 90° represents purely reactive power.
Q2: Why is power factor important in electrical systems?
A: Power factor affects the efficiency of power transmission. A low power factor results in higher energy losses and requires larger conductors and equipment.
Q3: How can power factor be improved?
A: Power factor can be improved by adding capacitors to the system, which provide reactive power compensation and reduce the phase difference between voltage and current.
Q4: What are the limitations of this calculation?
A: This calculation assumes a balanced single-phase 3-wire system and may not be accurate for unbalanced loads or systems with significant harmonics.
Q5: Can this calculator be used for three-phase systems?
A: No, this calculator is specifically designed for single-phase 3-wire systems. Different formulas are used for three-phase power calculations.