1. What is Power Factor?

Power Factor is the ratio of real power (measured in watts) to apparent power (measured in volt-amperes) in an AC electrical system. It indicates how effectively electrical power is being converted into useful work output.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Power Factor formula:

Where:

• \( Real\ Power \) — Actual power consumed (watts)
• \( Apparent\ Power \) — Product of voltage and current (VA)

Explanation: Power factor ranges from 0 to 1, where 1 indicates perfect efficiency with all power being converted to useful work.

3. Importance of Power Factor Calculation

Details: Calculating power factor is essential for optimizing electrical system efficiency, reducing energy costs, preventing equipment overload, and improving voltage regulation in power distribution systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter real power in watts and apparent power in volt-amperes (VA). Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good power factor value?
A: A power factor close to 1 (0.95 or higher) is considered good. Values below 0.85 typically indicate poor power factor that may require correction.

Q2: Why is low power factor problematic?
A: Low power factor causes higher current flow, increased energy losses, reduced system capacity, and may result in utility penalty charges.

Q3: How can power factor be improved?
A: Power factor can be improved by adding power factor correction capacitors, using synchronous condensers, or optimizing motor loads.

Q4: What causes low power factor in motors?
A: Induction motors operating at light loads, transformers at no load, and fluorescent lighting are common causes of low power factor.

Q5: Is power factor the same for single-phase and three-phase systems?
A: The concept is the same, but calculation methods differ. This calculator works for both single-phase and three-phase systems when proper measurements are taken.