Convert between apparent power (kVA) and real power (kW) using power factor, with reactive power (kVAR) shown.
Convert between apparent power (kVA) and real power (kW) using power factor, with reactive power (kVAR) shown.
kW = kVA × power factor and kVA = kW / power factor. Generators, transformers and UPS units are rated in kVA because they must supply both the real power that does work (kW) and the reactive power (kVAR) that energises motors and transformers.
The reactive component is found from the power triangle: kVAR = √(kVA² − kW²). A poor power factor (below 0.8) means a lot of kVAR and usually warrants power factor correction.
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