Power Factor Formula:
From: | To: |
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.
The calculator uses the power factor formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates power factor based on the constant underground AC value and the volume of conductor material in a 3-phase 3-wire US system.
Details: Power factor is crucial for efficient electrical system operation. A high power factor indicates efficient power usage, while a low power factor results in energy losses and reduced system efficiency.
Tips: Enter the constant underground AC value and volume of conductor material. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is a good power factor value?
A: A power factor close to 1 (unity) is ideal. Most electrical systems aim for a power factor of 0.95 or higher for efficient operation.
Q2: How does power factor affect electricity bills?
A: Utilities often charge penalties for low power factor because it indicates inefficient power usage that strains the electrical grid.
Q3: What causes low power factor?
A: Low power factor is typically caused by inductive loads like motors, transformers, and fluorescent lighting that create reactive power.
Q4: How can power factor be improved?
A: Power factor can be improved by adding power factor correction capacitors, using synchronous motors, or optimizing electrical load distribution.
Q5: Is this formula specific to certain electrical systems?
A: Yes, this particular formula is designed for 3-phase 3-wire US underground AC electrical systems.