What is the apparent power drawn by an induction motor if the power factor at starting is 0.20 and the motor has a rated power of 50 hp?
The apparent power drawn by the motor can be calculated using the formula: Apparent Power (VA) = Rated Power (W) / Power Factor. First, we need to convert the rated power from horsepower (hp) to watts (W). 1 horsepower is equal to approximately 746 watts. Therefore, the rated power of the motor is 50 hp * 746 W/hp = 37,300 W. Using the given power factor of 0.20, we can calculate the apparent power as follows: Apparent Power (VA) = 37,300 W / 0.20 = 186,500 VA. Therefore, the apparent power drawn by the motor is 186,500 VA.
Calculating Apparent Power for Induction Motor
Apparent Power Formula: Apparent Power (VA) = Rated Power (W) / Power Factor
To calculate the apparent power drawn by an induction motor, we first determine the rated power of the motor in watts. Given that the motor has a rated power of 50 horsepower (hp), we need to convert this to watts. By using the conversion factor of 1 horsepower being equal to 746 watts, we can calculate the rated power as follows:
Rated Power = 50 hp * 746 W/hp = 37,300 W
Next, we utilize the power factor provided, which is 0.20, to determine the apparent power drawn by the motor using the aforementioned formula:
Apparent Power (VA) = 37,300 W / 0.20 = 186,500 VA
Therefore, the apparent power drawn by the induction motor at starting, with a power factor of 0.20 and a rated power of 50 hp, amounts to 186,500 VA. Apparent power is crucial in electrical systems as it reflects the total power consumed by the motor, including both real power (useful work) and reactive power (stored and released energy). By understanding and calculating apparent power, we can ensure efficient utilization of electrical energy in various applications.