3 Phase Current Calculator Per Phase

Per Phase Current Formula:

\[ I_{phase} = \frac{P}{3 \times V_{phase} \times PF} \]

Per Phase Current (I_phase):

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1. What is Per Phase Current in Three-Phase Systems?

Per phase current calculation determines the current flowing through each individual phase in a three-phase electrical system. This is essential for proper sizing of conductors, protection devices, and transformers in three-phase power distribution.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the per phase current formula:

\[ I_{phase} = \frac{P}{3 \times V_{phase} \times PF} \]

Where:

\( I_{phase} \) — Per phase current (Amperes)
\( P \) — Total three-phase power (Watts)
\( V_{phase} \) — Phase voltage (Volts)
\( PF \) — Power factor (dimensionless, 0 to 1)

Explanation: The formula calculates the current in each phase by dividing the total power by three times the product of phase voltage and power factor, accounting for the balanced three-phase system.

3. Importance of Per Phase Current Calculation

Details: Accurate per phase current calculation is crucial for electrical system design, ensuring proper conductor sizing, circuit breaker selection, and preventing overheating or voltage drop issues in three-phase installations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter total three-phase power in watts, phase voltage in volts, and power factor (between 0 and 1). All values must be positive numbers with power factor not exceeding 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between phase voltage and line voltage?
A: In star (wye) configuration, phase voltage is line voltage divided by √3. In delta configuration, phase voltage equals line voltage.

Q2: Why is power factor important in current calculation?
A: Power factor accounts for the phase difference between voltage and current. Lower power factor requires higher current for the same real power, affecting equipment sizing.

Q3: Can this calculator be used for unbalanced three-phase systems?
A: This calculator assumes balanced three-phase load. For unbalanced systems, individual phase currents must be calculated separately.

Q4: What are typical power factor values?
A: Power factor typically ranges from 0.8 to 1.0 for most industrial loads, with 1.0 representing purely resistive load.

Q5: How does this differ from single-phase current calculation?
A: Single-phase uses P/(V×PF) while three-phase per phase uses P/(3×V_phase×PF) due to power distribution across three phases.