Calculate 3 Phase Current From Kw

Three-Phase Current Formula:

\[ I = \frac{kW \times 1000}{\sqrt{3} \times V \times PF} \]

Current (I):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Three-Phase Current Calculation?

The three-phase current calculation determines the electrical current flowing in a three-phase power system based on power consumption, voltage, and power factor. This is essential for electrical system design, load analysis, and equipment sizing.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the three-phase current formula:

\[ I = \frac{kW \times 1000}{\sqrt{3} \times V \times PF} \]

Where:

\( I \) — Current in amperes (A)
\( kW \) — Power in kilowatts (kW)
\( V \) — Line-to-line voltage in volts (V)
\( PF \) — Power factor (dimensionless, 0 to 1)
\( \sqrt{3} \) — Square root of 3 (approximately 1.732)
\( 1000 \) — Conversion factor from kW to W

Explanation: The formula converts power from kilowatts to watts, then calculates current using the three-phase power equation that accounts for the phase relationship in three-phase systems.

3. Importance of Three-Phase Current Calculation

Details: Accurate current calculation is crucial for proper wire sizing, circuit breaker selection, transformer sizing, and ensuring electrical system safety and efficiency in industrial and commercial applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter power in kilowatts, line-to-line voltage in volts, and power factor (typically 0.8-0.95 for most industrial loads). All values must be positive and power factor must be between 0.01 and 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between line and phase voltage?
A: Line voltage is measured between any two phases, while phase voltage is measured between a phase and neutral. This calculator uses line voltage.

Q2: Why is power factor important in current calculation?
A: Power factor represents the ratio of real power to apparent power. Lower power factor increases current for the same real power, requiring larger conductors and equipment.

Q3: What are typical power factor values?
A: Resistive loads: 1.0, Induction motors: 0.8-0.9, Fluorescent lighting: 0.5-0.9. Industrial plants typically aim for 0.85-0.95.

Q4: Can this formula be used for single-phase systems?
A: No, single-phase systems use I = P / (V × PF). The √3 factor is specific to balanced three-phase systems.

Q5: How does voltage affect current calculation?
A: Higher voltage reduces current for the same power, which is why high-voltage transmission is used to minimize I²R losses over long distances.