Phase Power Calculation: Determining Total Power Input into System

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the total power input into a system with three phases (A, B, and C) based on measured voltage and current data. The focus is on understanding the correct approach to power calculation in an AC system, including the consideration of phase angles.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Technical explanation, Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents measured data for voltages and currents in three phases and calculates initial power values without considering phase angles.
  • Another participant points out that the initial calculations represent volt-amps rather than watts due to the neglect of phase angles.
  • A later reply suggests using the equation P=VIcos(θv-θi) to account for phase angles, leading to revised power calculations for each phase and total power.
  • One participant requests to see the data used for the new calculations to assess their validity and inquires about the nature of the load involved.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correct power calculations, as there is a disagreement regarding the necessity of considering phase angles and the implications of the calculations presented.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions made about the load type and the specific formulas applicable to the calculations, which remain unresolved.

TurboST2
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Homework Statement


I need to calculate the power for phase A, B, and C so that I can determine the total power into the system.

I have measured the following data:
VA magnitude = 117.7 [v]
VA angle = 0°
IA magnitude = 7.5 [A]
IA angle = -25.5°
VB magnitude = 117.7 [v]
VB angle = -124.1°
IB magnitude = 7.7 [A]
IB angle = -145.7°
VC magnitude = 117.2 [v]
VC angle = 117.5°
IC magnitude = 7.3 [A]
IC angle = 94.8°

Homework Equations


P=IV

The Attempt at a Solution


Does this mean?:
Phase A power = 882.75 [w]
Phase B power = 906.29 [w]
Phase C power = 855.56 [w]

Total power into system = 2644.6 [w]
 
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Hi TurboST2 :welcome:

So you didn't take phase angle into account? That means you've calculated volt-amps for each phase, not watts.

Does your textbook show a formula for AC power?
 
Thank you for the helpful reply. No I did not take the phase angle into account. I wasn't sure if this was necessary for calculating power in this way.

Taking the angle into account would I use this equation instead? P=VIcos(θv-θi) giving the following results:

Pa = 796.75 [w]
Pb = 842.64 [w]
Pc = 789.28 [w]

Ptotal = 2428.67 [w]
 
If you showed the data you used in arriving at those new numbers, it would be easy to judge whether you are on the right track.

What is the nature of your load here?
 

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