Power Factor Using Load Current Per Phase (3 Phase 3 Wire US) Calculator

Power Factor Formula:

\[ PF = \frac{\sqrt{6} \times P}{I \times V_m \times 3} \]

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 for 3 Phase 3 Wire US systems:

\[ PF = \frac{\sqrt{6} \times P}{I \times V_m \times 3} \]

Where:

\( PF \) — Power Factor
\( P \) — Power Transmitted (Watt)
\( I \) — Current Underground AC (Ampere)
\( V_m \) — Maximum Voltage Underground AC (Volt)
\( \sqrt{6} \) — Mathematical constant (approximately 2.449)

Explanation: This formula calculates the power factor by considering the transmitted power, current, and maximum voltage in a 3-phase 3-wire underground AC system.

3. Importance of Power Factor Calculation

Details: Power factor calculation is crucial for determining the efficiency of electrical power usage, optimizing energy consumption, reducing power losses, and ensuring proper sizing of electrical equipment.

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 for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the ideal power factor value?
A: The ideal power factor is 1.0 (unity), which indicates that all the power is being used effectively. Most systems aim for a power factor close to 1.0.

Q2: What causes low power factor?
A: Low power factor is typically caused by inductive loads such as motors, transformers, and fluorescent lighting that require reactive power.

Q3: How can power factor be improved?
A: Power factor can be improved by adding capacitors to the system, which provide reactive power and reduce the phase difference between voltage and current.

Q4: Why is power factor important in electrical systems?
A: Poor power factor results in higher currents, increased energy losses, reduced system capacity, and potential penalties from utility companies.

Q5: Does this formula apply to all 3-phase systems?
A: This specific formula applies to 3-phase 3-wire US underground AC systems. Other 3-phase configurations may use different formulas.