3-Phase Current Formula:
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The 3-phase current calculation converts electrical energy consumption (kWh) into current (amps) for three-phase electrical systems. This is essential for electrical design, load analysis, and equipment sizing in industrial and commercial applications.
The calculator uses the 3-phase current formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula converts energy consumption to power, then calculates the current required to deliver that power in a balanced 3-phase system.
Details: Accurate current calculation is crucial for proper wire sizing, circuit breaker selection, transformer sizing, and ensuring electrical system safety and efficiency in three-phase installations.
Tips: Enter energy consumption in kWh, line-to-line voltage in volts, power factor (typically 0.8-0.95 for motors), and time duration in hours. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What is power factor and why is it important?
A: Power factor represents the ratio of real power to apparent power. It affects system efficiency - lower PF requires higher current for the same real power.
Q2: When should I use this calculation?
A: Use for sizing conductors, breakers, and transformers in 3-phase systems when you know energy consumption over time.
Q3: What voltage should I use - line or phase?
A: Use line-to-line voltage (typically 208V, 240V, 480V, or 600V for North American systems).
Q4: Can this be used for single-phase systems?
A: No, this formula is specifically for balanced 3-phase systems. Single-phase calculations use a different formula.
Q5: What if I don't know the power factor?
A: For estimation, use 0.85 for motor loads or 0.95 for well-designed systems. For precise calculations, measure actual power factor.