Power Factor Using Load Current (1-Phase 2-Wire Mid-Point Earthed) Calculator

Power Factor Formula:

\[ PF = \frac{\sqrt{2} \times P}{I \times V_m} \]

Power Transmitted (P):

Watt

Current Underground AC (I):

Ampere

Maximum Voltage Underground AC (V_m):

Volt

Power Factor (PF):

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1. What is Power Factor?

The power factor of an AC electrical power system is defined as the ratio of the real power absorbed by the load to the apparent power flowing in the circuit. It indicates how effectively electrical power is being used.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Power Factor formula:

\[ PF = \frac{\sqrt{2} \times P}{I \times V_m} \]

Where:

\( P \) — Power Transmitted (Watt)
\( I \) — Current Underground AC (Ampere)
\( V_m \) — Maximum Voltage Underground AC (Volt)
\( \sqrt{2} \) — Square root of 2 (approximately 1.4142)

Explanation: This formula calculates the power factor for a 1-Phase 2-Wire Mid-Point Earthed system by considering the transmitted power, current, and maximum voltage.

3. Importance of Power Factor Calculation

Details: Power factor calculation is crucial for determining the efficiency of electrical power usage, optimizing energy consumption, and reducing power losses in electrical systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter power transmitted in watts, current in amperes, and maximum voltage in volts. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the ideal power factor value?
A: The ideal power factor is 1.0, which indicates that all the power is being used effectively. Values below 1.0 indicate inefficiencies in the system.

Q2: Why is power factor important in electrical systems?
A: A low power factor can lead to increased energy losses, higher electricity bills, and reduced efficiency of electrical equipment.

Q3: How can power factor be improved?
A: Power factor can be improved by using capacitors, synchronous condensers, or other power factor correction devices to reduce reactive power.

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

Q5: Is power factor the same for all electrical systems?
A: No, power factor varies depending on the type of load and the electrical system configuration. Different systems may require different calculation methods.