Calculate Horsepower From Amps And Volts

Horsepower Formula:

\[ HP = \frac{Amps \times Volts \times PF}{746} \]

Horsepower (HP):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What Is Horsepower Calculation?

Horsepower calculation from amps and volts determines the mechanical power output of an electric motor based on electrical input parameters. It helps in motor selection, efficiency analysis, and system design.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the horsepower formula:

\[ HP = \frac{Amps \times Volts \times PF}{746} \]

Where:

\( Amps \) — Current in amperes (A)
\( Volts \) — Voltage in volts (V)
\( PF \) — Power factor (dimensionless, 0-1)
\( 746 \) — Conversion factor (watts to horsepower)

Explanation: The formula converts electrical power (in watts) to mechanical power (in horsepower), accounting for power factor which represents the phase difference between voltage and current.

3. Importance Of Horsepower Calculation

Details: Accurate horsepower calculation is essential for proper motor sizing, energy efficiency analysis, electrical system design, and ensuring equipment operates within safe power limits.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter current in amps, voltage in volts, and power factor (typically 0.8-1.0 for AC motors). All values must be valid (amps > 0, volts > 0, power factor between 0-1).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is power factor and why is it important?
A: Power factor measures how effectively electrical power is converted to useful work. Low power factor indicates poor efficiency and may require power factor correction.

Q2: Why divide by 746 in the formula?
A: 746 watts equals 1 horsepower, so dividing by 746 converts electrical power (watts) to mechanical power (horsepower).

Q3: Is this calculation accurate for all motor types?
A: This provides theoretical horsepower. Actual output depends on motor efficiency, which varies by motor type, size, and operating conditions.

Q4: What is a typical power factor for electric motors?
A: Most AC motors have power factors between 0.8-0.95 when operating at rated load. Power factor decreases at light loads.

Q5: Can I use this for DC motors?
A: For DC motors, power factor is 1.0 since voltage and current are in phase, making the calculation simpler (HP = (Amps × Volts) / 746).