Power Factor Using Area Of X-Section(3-Phase 3-Wire OS) Calculator

Power Factor Formula:

\[ PF = \sqrt{\frac{2 \times \rho \times (P^2 \times L^2)}{3 \times A \times P_{loss} \times (V_m^2)}} \]

Resistivity (ρ):

Ω·m

Power Transmitted (P):

Length of Wire (L):

Area of X-Section (A):

m²

Line Losses (P_loss):

Maximum Voltage (V_m):

Power Factor (PF):

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1. What is Power Factor?

Power Factor is the ratio of real power absorbed by the load to the apparent power flowing in an AC electrical circuit. It indicates how effectively electrical power is being used in a system.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the power factor formula for 3-phase 3-wire overhead systems:

\[ PF = \sqrt{\frac{2 \times \rho \times (P^2 \times L^2)}{3 \times A \times P_{loss} \times (V_m^2)}} \]

Where:

\( PF \) — Power Factor
\( \rho \) — Resistivity (Ω·m)
\( P \) — Power Transmitted (W)
\( L \) — Length of Overhead AC Wire (m)
\( A \) — Area of X-Section (m²)
\( P_{loss} \) — Line Losses (W)
\( V_m \) — Maximum Voltage (V)

Explanation: This formula calculates power factor based on the physical properties of the transmission line and the electrical parameters of the system.

3. Importance of Power Factor Calculation

Details: Power factor is crucial for efficient power system operation. A high power factor indicates efficient power usage, while a low power factor results in higher energy losses and reduced system capacity.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all values in the appropriate units. Ensure all values are positive and valid. The calculator will compute the power factor based on the input parameters.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good power factor value?
A: A power factor close to 1 (0.95 or higher) is considered good, indicating efficient power usage.

Q2: Why is power factor important in electrical systems?
A: Low power factor increases energy losses, reduces system capacity, and may result in utility penalties.

Q3: How can power factor be improved?
A: Power factor can be improved using capacitors, synchronous condensers, or other power factor correction equipment.

Q4: What causes low power factor?
A: Low power factor is typically caused by inductive loads such as motors, transformers, and fluorescent lighting.

Q5: Is this formula specific to 3-phase systems?
A: Yes, this particular formula is designed for 3-phase 3-wire overhead AC transmission systems.