1. What is Power Factor?

Power Factor (PF) is the ratio of real power (measured in watts) to apparent power (measured in volt-amperes) in an AC electrical system. It represents the efficiency with which electrical power is converted into useful work output.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the power factor formula:

Where:

• \( PF \) — Power Factor (unitless)
• \( P \) — Real Power (watts)
• \( V \) — Voltage (volts)
• \( I \) — Current (amps)

Explanation: Power factor ranges from 0 to 1, where 1 indicates perfect efficiency and 0 indicates poor efficiency with high reactive power.

3. Importance of Power Factor Calculation

Details: Calculating power factor is crucial for optimizing electrical system efficiency, reducing energy costs, preventing equipment damage, and complying with utility power factor requirements.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter real power in watts, voltage in volts, and current in amps. All values must be positive and greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good power factor value?
A: A power factor of 0.95 or higher is generally considered good. Values below 0.85 may incur penalties from utility companies.

Q2: What causes low power factor?
A: Low power factor is typically caused by inductive loads like motors, transformers, and fluorescent lighting that create reactive power.

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

Q4: What's the difference between real and apparent power?
A: Real power performs actual work, while apparent power is the combination of real power and reactive power that doesn't perform useful work.

Q5: Why do utilities charge for poor power factor?
A: Utilities charge penalties because poor power factor requires them to supply more current for the same real power, increasing transmission losses and infrastructure costs.