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Simple and fast 3 Phase Motor Capacitor Size Calculator

How to Calculate 3 Phase Motor Capacitor Size

The 3 Phase Motor Capacitor Size Calculator estimates the capacitance in microfarads (µF) needed for power factor correction. The formula is:

\( C(\mu F) = P(W) \times F \)

Where \( P(W) \) is the motor power in watts, converted from HP (1 HP = 746 W) or kW (1 kW = 1000 W) if necessary.

Where:

  • \( C \): Capacitance in microfarads (µF).
  • \( P(W) \): Motor power in watts (W).
  • \( F \): Factor, typically between 0.06 and 0.07 (selected by user).

Enter the motor power, select the unit (W, kW, or HP), and choose a factor to calculate the capacitance.

Using the 3 Phase Motor Capacitor Size Calculator

This calculator assists in determining the capacitor size for power factor correction in three-phase motors based on a simplified empirical formula.

Input the motor power and select the unit (W, kW, or HP), then choose a factor (0.06 or 0.07). The calculator outputs the capacitance in µF.

Example: For a 5 kW motor with a factor of 0.06.


  1. Power: \( 5 \, \text{kW} = 5000 \, \text{W} \)
  2. Factor: \( 0.06 \)
  3. Calculation: \( C = 5000 \times 0.06 = 300.000 \, \mu F \)
  4. Result: \( 300.000 \, \mu F \)

Use this tool for initial capacitor sizing in three-phase motor systems.

Common FAQ

Below are frequently asked questions about 3 Phase Motor Capacitor Size calculations:

  • Q: What is the purpose of a capacitor in a 3-phase motor?
    A: It improves power factor by compensating for reactive power.
  • Q: Why use a factor of 0.06 to 0.07?
    A: This range is an empirical approximation for typical three-phase motor correction needs.
  • Q: How accurate is this calculator?
    A: It provides an estimate; actual sizing may require power factor data.
  • Q: Can negative values be used?
    A: No, power must be positive; invalid inputs leave the result blank.
  • Q: What if the result is not standard?
    A: Select the nearest standard capacitance value above the calculated result.

Reference:https://youtube.com/shorts/s9ggM0aKXN0?si=U3KwEN00CSaH0ZP6

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