Key concepts and instruments used for measuring power and energy in electrical systems
Learn about power factor and how it is measured in electrical systems.
Read MoreUnderstand the measurement of power in three-phase electrical systems.
Read MoreExplore methods for measuring power loss in electrical circuits and systems.
Read MoreWattmeters are instruments used to measure the active power (in watts) consumed by an electrical circuit. They work based on the principle of measuring the voltage and current at the load and calculating the power factor.
Formula: Power (P) = Voltage (V) × Current (I) × Power Factor (PF)
Energy meters are used to measure the total electrical energy consumed over time. They are calibrated in kilowatt-hours (kWh) and are used in residential and industrial settings to monitor energy consumption.
Formula: Energy (E) = Power (P) × Time (T)
Power factor is a measure of how efficiently electrical power is being used. A power factor of 1 indicates perfect efficiency, while lower values show that less power is being used effectively.
Formula: Power Factor (PF) = Real Power (P) / Apparent Power (S)
In a three-phase electrical system, power measurement is done using three wattmeters or a single polyphase wattmeter. The total power is the sum of the individual powers in each phase.
Formula: Total Power (P) = √3 × Voltage (V) × Current (I) × Power Factor (PF)
Power loss in electrical systems can be caused by resistance in conductors, inefficiency in equipment, and other factors. Measuring these losses helps in optimizing the system and improving efficiency.
Formula: Power Loss (P_loss) = Current² (I²) × Resistance (R)