What this calculator actually does
Power factor is the ratio of real power (kW) to apparent power (kVA). For the simplified power triangle, apparent power combines real and reactive power, allowing kVAR to be calculated from kVA² = kW² + kVAR².
How to use this calculator
Choose whether you know kW + kVA or kW + power factor.
Enter positive values; power factor must be between 0 and 1.
Review PF, kVA and kVAR as a simplified power-triangle calculation.
Where people use it
- •Checking power-triangle relationships
- •Equipment/load calculation training
- •Converting between real and apparent power when PF is known
Example: 8 kW and 10 kVA
Power factor is 8 ÷ 10 = 0.8. Reactive power from the simplified triangle is √(10² − 8²) = 6 kVAR.
Assumptions and limits
- •This is a simplified steady-state power-triangle calculation. Distortion, harmonics, unbalance and waveform quality can require more detailed power analysis.
- •A calculated power factor does not by itself specify a correction device or installation method.
Frequently asked questions
What is power factor?+
In this simplified model, power factor is real power in kW divided by apparent power in kVA.
Can power factor be greater than 1?+
No. For this calculation a valid power factor is greater than 0 and no more than 1.
What is kVAR?+
kVAR is reactive power. In the simplified power triangle it is the perpendicular component between real kW and apparent kVA.
Semantic next steps
Continue the calculation
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