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Three-Phase Power Calculator

Calculate real and apparent power in balanced three-phase AC systems from line values.

Three-phase power
5,542.6 W
P = √3 × 400 V × 10 A × 0.8 pf
Kilowatts
5.543 kW
Apparent power
6,928.2 VA
Horsepower
7.433 hp

Estimates for planning only — verify against local electrical codes and a qualified professional.

How it works

  1. 1Enter the line-to-line voltage VL (e.g. 400 V).
  2. 2Enter the line current IL drawn by the load.
  3. 3Enter the power factor (0–1). Real power P = √3 × VL × IL × pf is computed instantly.

Use cases

  • Sizing breakers and cables for three-phase motors and equipment.
  • Verifying generator or UPS capacity against three-phase loads.
  • Converting between watts, kW, VA, and horsepower for datasheets.

Frequently asked questions

What is the three-phase real power formula?

P = √3 × VL × IL × pf using line values. For 400 V, 10 A, pf 0.8: P = 1.732 × 400 × 10 × 0.8 ≈ 5543 W (≈ 5.54 kW).

How does apparent power differ from real power?

Apparent power S = √3 × VL × IL (VA) is the total supplied; real power P = S × pf is the useful portion. The difference is reactive power.

Why use line values?

Line voltage and current are what you measure at the terminals and read on nameplates. The √3 factor accounts for the 120° phase displacement.

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