1. What is Power Factor?

Power Factor (PF) is the ratio of real power (P) to apparent power (V×I) in an AC electrical system. It represents the efficiency of power usage and ranges from 0 to 1, where 1 indicates perfect efficiency.

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 measures how effectively electrical power is being used. A low power factor indicates poor utilization of electrical power.

3. Importance of Power Factor Calculation

Details: Power factor calculation is crucial for optimizing electrical system efficiency, reducing energy costs, improving voltage regulation, and avoiding penalties from utility companies for poor power factor.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter real power in watts, voltage in volts, and current in amps. All 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 of 0.95 or higher is generally considered good. Values below 0.85 may incur penalties from utility providers.

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 adding power factor correction capacitors, using synchronous condensers, or optimizing motor loads.

Q4: What's the difference between leading and lagging power factor?
A: Lagging power factor occurs when current lags voltage (inductive loads), while leading power factor occurs when current leads voltage (capacitive loads).

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.