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About

Industrial electrical systems rely on balanced three-phase power for transmission efficiency and motor torque. Field engineers often face errors when manually converting between Line-to-Line (VLL) and Line-to-Neutral (VLN) voltages, or when sizing circuit breakers for Star (Wye) versus Delta loads. Miscalculation leads to undersized conductors or nuisance tripping.

This tool automates the derivation of Active Power (P), Reactive Power (Q), and Apparent Power (S). It integrates the critical 3 factor for line calculations and applies the power factor (PF) to distinguish between resistive and inductive loads. Accuracy here ensures compliance with NEC and IEC load sizing standards.

electrical engineering three phase power factor kW kVA volts amps

Formulas

The relationship between power components in a balanced three-phase system involves the line voltage VLL, line current I, and power factor PF.

Apparent Power:

S = 3 × VLL × I

Active Power:

P = S × PF = 3 × VLL × I × cosφ

Reactive Power:

Q = 3 × VLL × I × sinφ

Reference Data

Region / StandardVoltage (VLL)FrequencyCommon Application
Europe (IEC)400 V50 HzStandard Industrial Mains
USA (NEC)480 V60 HzIndustrial Motors & HVAC
USA (Lighting)208 V60 HzCommercial Small Power
Canada600 V60 HzHeavy Industry / Mining
UK (Legacy)415 V50 HzOlder Installations
Japan (East)200 V50 HzManufacturing
Australia400 V50 HzStandard Distribution
Brazil (Var)380 V60 HzRegional Grids

Frequently Asked Questions

In a Star (Wye) connection, the line voltage is √3 times the phase voltage, but line current equals phase current. In a Delta connection, the line voltage equals phase voltage, but line current is √3 times the phase current. Star is common for distribution with a neutral; Delta is common for transmission and motors.
PF measures efficiency. A low PF (e.g., 0.7) means the system draws more current to do the same work (kW) compared to a high PF (0.95). This excess current heats conductors and transformers without performing useful work, often incurring utility penalties.
To find current from power: I = P / (√3 × V_LL × PF). Ensure you use Line-to-Line voltage for V_LL.