Calculator Inputs
Example Data Table
| Scenario | kVA | Power Factor | Efficiency | Voltage | Phase | Resulting kW |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Office distribution panel | 75 | 0.92 | 98% | 400 V | Three-phase | 69.00 kW |
| Motor control center | 125 | 0.85 | 96% | 400 V | Three-phase | 106.25 kW |
| Single-phase backup load | 15 | 0.80 | 100% | 230 V | Single-phase | 12.00 kW |
Formula Used
Primary conversion: kW = kVA × Power Factor
Delivered power: Delivered kW = kVA × Power Factor × Efficiency
Single-phase current: Current (A) = kVA × 1000 ÷ Voltage
Three-phase current: Current (A) = kVA × 1000 ÷ (√3 × Voltage)
Planning size: Recommended kVA = Input kVA × (1 + Margin ÷ 100)
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the apparent power value in kVA.
- Set the power factor that matches your load.
- Enter efficiency if you need delivered output power.
- Choose voltage and phase to estimate current.
- Add a planning margin for source sizing.
- Pick decimal places, then click Convert Now.
- Review the result block above the form.
- Use the CSV or PDF option for documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does kVA measure?
kVA measures apparent power. It combines usable power and reactive power in one rating, which is why transformers and generators are often labeled in kVA instead of kW.
2. Why is kW lower than kVA?
kW is real power, while kVA is apparent power. When power factor is less than 1, some current supports magnetic or reactive effects rather than useful work.
3. When should I use efficiency in this converter?
Use efficiency when you want estimated delivered or usable output after system losses. Leave it at 100% when you only need the electrical input conversion from kVA to kW.
4. Does phase type change the kW result?
No. Phase type does not change the basic kVA-to-kW conversion. It matters only when you also estimate current from voltage because single-phase and three-phase current formulas differ.
5. What is a good power factor to enter?
Resistive loads may be near 1.0. Mixed commercial loads often fall around 0.85 to 0.95. Motor-heavy systems can be lower unless corrected with capacitors or drives.
6. Why add a planning margin?
A margin helps when choosing transformers, inverters, or generators. It accounts for future expansion, uncertainty, startup conditions, and helps avoid operating equipment continuously at the limit.
7. Can I use this for generator sizing?
Yes. The calculator provides a recommended kVA value with margin, which is useful for preliminary generator sizing. Final selection should still consider starting currents and harmonic conditions.
8. Does this tool support PDF export without extra coding?
Yes. After calculating, click the PDF button in the result area. The page generates a downloadable report section for quick sharing, archiving, or client documentation.