What is apparent power, active power, the difference between them - Database & Sql Blog Articles

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Active Power

P = 3UφIφCOSφ = √3UIcosφ

Apparent Power

S = 3UφIφ = √3UI

Apparent power, active power, and reactive power form a right triangle known as the power triangle. Therefore:

S = √(P² + Q²)

cosφ = P/S

Where cosφ is the power factor, and φ is the phase angle between voltage and current.

The power factor is a crucial technical parameter for electrical equipment. It reflects the ratio of real power to apparent power in an AC circuit. The value of the power factor depends on the balance between resistance and reactance in the load.

A typical power factor ranges from 0.7 to 0.9, though it can sometimes be lower. A low power factor has several negative impacts on the power system:

• It limits the full utilization of power generation and distribution equipment capacity.
• When the active power and voltage are constant, a lower power factor requires a higher current, which increases energy losses and reduces system efficiency.
• It can lead to increased electricity bills due to inefficiencies and penalties in some utility tariffs.

Improving the power factor through capacitors or Other compensation methods can significantly enhance system performance and reduce energy waste.