Kilowatts (kW) to Volt-Amps (VA) Calculator

How to Convert Kilowatts (kW) to Volt-Amps (VA)

Converting kilowatts (kW) to volt-amps (VA) is a fundamental calculation in electrical engineering and power system analysis. This conversion is essential for understanding the relationship between real power and apparent power in electrical systems.

Conversion Formula

The formula to convert kW to VA is:

\[VA = \frac{kW}{PF}\]

Where:

• VA is the apparent power in volt-amps
• kW is the real power in kilowatts
• PF is the power factor

Calculation Steps

1. Determine the real power in kilowatts (kW)
2. Identify the power factor of the system
3. Divide the real power (kW) by the power factor
4. The result is the apparent power in volt-amps (VA)

Example Calculation

Let's convert 5 kW with a power factor of 0.8 to VA:

1. Identify the given values: \[kW = 5\] \[PF = 0.8\]
2. Apply the formula: \[VA = \frac{kW}{PF} = \frac{5}{0.8} = 6.25\]

Therefore, 5 kW with a power factor of 0.8 is equal to 6.25 VA of apparent power.

Calculation Visualization

This bar chart visually compares the input real power (5 kW) and the resulting apparent power (6.25 VA) from our example calculation. The height of each bar is proportional to its value, illustrating how the power factor affects the relationship between real power and apparent power. Note that the VA value is always greater than or equal to the kW value, as it represents the total power in the system, including both real and reactive components.