Power Factor Correction Calculator: Determine kVAR and Capacitor Size

Power Factor Correction Calculator

Calculate reactive power (kvar) and single-phase capacitor size (µF) required to correct power factor.
If mode is kW, enter active power. If kVA, enter apparent power.
Line-to-line for 3-phase or single-phase RMS voltage (use 415 for 3Φ L-L).
Notes: This calculator computes the reactive power required (∆Q) and the capacitor size for single-phase correction using:
Q (kvar) = P (kW) * (tan φ₁ - tan φ₂)
For three-phase balanced systems, the computed kvar is total for all three phases. Capacitor µF calculation assumes single-phase connection: C(µF) = (Q (kvar) * 10^3) / (2π f V²) * 10^6.

Instantly Calculate Reactive Power (kVAR) and Capacitance (µF)

Use our **Power Factor Correction Calculator** to quickly determine the exact components needed to bring your system's power factor closer to unity. Improving power factor is critical for **reducing energy costs**, minimizing penalties from utility companies, and increasing the efficiency of your electrical infrastructure.

This comprehensive **electrical engineering tool** calculates the required reactive power ($\text{kVAR}$) and the capacitance ($\mu\text{F}$) for both **single-phase** and **three-phase balanced** systems.

🔑 Key Calculations Performed

Our calculator simplifies complex electrical formulas to provide actionable results based on your inputs:

  • **Reactive Power Required ($\Delta\text{Q}$ in kVAR):** Determines the necessary capacitive load to bridge the gap between your *initial* and *desired* power factor ($\cos\phi$).
  • **Capacitor Size ($\mu\text{F}$):** Estimates the capacitance needed to supply the calculated $\Delta\text{Q}$, based on the system's input voltage ($\text{V}$) and frequency ($\text{Hz}$).
  • **Active Power ($\text{kW}$):** If you input apparent power ($\text{kVA}$), the tool first calculates the true active power ($\text{kW}$) being used.

🎯 Who Needs This Tool?

This **Power Factor Calculation** tool is essential for:

  • **Electrical Engineering Students** learning power systems and reactive compensation.
  • **Industrial Electricians and Technicians** planning maintenance or system upgrades.
  • **Facility Managers** looking to reduce operational costs and comply with power factor standards.

**Note:** The formulas used assume a linear load; for systems with significant harmonics, a more detailed harmonic filter analysis is required.