Amps to Volt-Amps (VA) Calculator

How to Convert Amps to Volt-Amperes (VA)

Converting amperes (amps) to volt-amperes (VA) is a fundamental calculation in electrical engineering and power system analysis. This process involves understanding the relationship between electrical current, voltage, and apparent power.

Conversion Formula

The formula to convert amps to VA depends on whether the system is single-phase or three-phase:

Single-Phase:

\[VA = I \times V\]

Three-Phase:

\[VA = I \times V \times \sqrt{3}\]

Where:

• VA is the apparent power in volt-amperes
• I is the current in amperes (A)
• V is the voltage in volts (V)

Calculation Steps

1. Determine if the system is single-phase or three-phase
2. Measure or obtain the current (I) in amperes
3. Identify the voltage (V) of the system
4. Apply the appropriate formula based on the phase
5. Perform the calculation to get the result in VA

Example Calculation

Let's convert 50 amps to VA for a three-phase system at 480 volts:

• Current (I): 50 A
• Voltage (V): 480 V
• Phase: Three-phase

1. Apply the three-phase formula: \[VA = I \times V \times \sqrt{3}\]
2. Substitute the values: \[VA = 50 \text{ A} \times 480 \text{ V} \times \sqrt{3}\]
3. Calculate: \[VA = 50 \times 480 \times 1.732 = 41,568 \text{ VA}\]

Therefore, 50 amps in this three-phase system at 480 volts is equivalent to 41,568 VA.

Conversion Visualization

This bar chart visually compares 50 A to its equivalent of 41,568 VA. The chart illustrates how electrical current (amps) relates to apparent power (VA) in this specific three-phase system example.