kW to Amps Calculator
Convert kilowatts to amps for single phase and three phase electrical systems. Includes power factor for accurate results.
Convert kW to Amps
Result
—
Current (Amps)
Formula
Single Phase:
Amps = (kW × 1000) ÷ (Volts × Power Factor)
Three Phase:
Amps = (kW × 1000) ÷ (√3 × Volts × Power Factor)
Where √3 ≈ 1.732
Example Calculations
Single Phase Example: 10 kW at 240V with PF = 0.9
Amps = (10 × 1000) ÷ (240 × 0.9)
Amps = 10,000 ÷ 216 = 46.3 A
Amps = 10,000 ÷ 216 = 46.3 A
Three Phase Example: 10 kW at 415V with PF = 0.85
Amps = (10 × 1000) ÷ (1.732 × 415 × 0.85)
Amps = 10,000 ÷ 611.3 = 16.36 A
Amps = 10,000 ÷ 611.3 = 16.36 A
Practical Notes
- Use PF = 1.0 for purely resistive loads (heaters, incandescent bulbs).
- Motors typically have PF between 0.7 and 0.9 depending on load.
- Three phase is more efficient — the same kW draws fewer amps per phase.
- US residential is typically 120/240V single phase. Commercial is often 208V or 480V three phase.
- UK/EU is typically 230V single phase or 400V three phase.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert kW to amps?
Single phase: Amps = (kW × 1000) ÷ (V × PF). Three phase: Amps = (kW × 1000) ÷ (1.732 × V × PF). Always know your voltage and power factor before calculating.
What is power factor?
Power factor (PF) is a number between 0 and 1 that describes how efficiently electrical power is used. Resistive loads like heaters have PF = 1. Inductive loads like motors or transformers typically have PF of 0.7–0.95.
How many amps is 10 kW at 240V single phase?
At PF = 1: Amps = (10 × 1000) ÷ (240 × 1) = 41.67A. At PF = 0.9: Amps = 10,000 ÷ 216 = 46.3A. The lower the power factor, the more current is drawn.