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Power Factor Formula:
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Power Factor (PF) is a measure of how effectively electrical power is being used in a three-phase AC electrical system. It represents the ratio of real power (measured in kW) to apparent power (measured in kVA), indicating the efficiency of power utilization.
The calculator uses the three-phase power factor formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula calculates the power factor by dividing the real power by the product of the square root of 3, voltage, and current. The result is a dimensionless number between 0 and 1.
Details: Power factor is crucial in electrical systems as it affects efficiency, energy costs, and system capacity. A low power factor indicates poor utilization of electrical power, leading to increased energy losses and potential penalties from utility companies.
Tips: Enter real power in kW, line voltage in volts, and line current in amperes. All 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 (0.95 or higher) is generally considered good, indicating efficient power usage. Values below 0.85 are typically considered poor.
Q2: How can power factor be improved?
A: Power factor can be improved by adding power factor correction capacitors, using synchronous condensers, or optimizing motor loads to reduce reactive power.
Q3: Why is power factor important in three-phase systems?
A: In three-phase systems, power factor affects the efficiency of power transmission and distribution, equipment sizing, and overall system performance.
Q4: 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.
Q5: Are there different types of power factor?
A: Yes, there are displacement power factor ( caused by phase shift between voltage and current) and distortion power factor (caused by harmonics).