1. What is 3 Phase Current Calculator?

Definition: This calculator computes the electrical current (in amps) in a three-phase system based on power, voltage, and power factor.

Purpose: It helps electricians and engineers determine the current flow in three-phase electrical systems for proper equipment sizing and safety.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( I \) — Current (amps)
• \( P \) — Power (watts)
• \( V \) — Voltage (volts)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (dimensionless, between 0 and 1)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the three-phase power system characteristics where power is divided by the product of √3, line voltage, and power factor.

3. Importance of Current Calculation

Details: Accurate current calculation ensures proper wire sizing, circuit breaker selection, and prevents equipment overload in three-phase systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the power in watts, line voltage (default 480V), and power factor (default 0.85). All values must be > 0, with PF between 0.01 and 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is √3 used in the formula?
A: The √3 factor accounts for the phase difference in three-phase systems, converting between line-to-line and line-to-neutral voltages.

Q2: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Industrial loads typically have PF between 0.8-0.95. Motors might be 0.85, while purely resistive loads are 1.0.

Q3: Is this formula for line or phase current?
A: This calculates line current in a balanced three-phase system using line-to-line voltage.

Q4: Can I use this for single-phase calculations?
A: No, for single-phase use I = P/(V×PF) without the √3 factor.

Q5: How does voltage affect the current?
A: Higher voltage systems require less current for the same power, which is why transmission lines use high voltages.