Apparent Power Converter
Quickly convert between apparent power units like VA, kVA, and MVA.
Why Use This Tool? ✅
Fast & Accurate
Provides precise, real-time conversions based on standard metric prefixes.
Supports All Common Units
Easily convert between Volt-Amperes (VA), kVA, and MVA for all applications.
Perfect for Professionals
An essential tool for electrical engineers, power system analysts, and electricians.
User-Friendly Interface
A simple, clean interface that makes converting any apparent power unit quick and easy.
The Power Triangle: Understanding Apparent Power ⚡
In alternating current (AC) electrical systems, the concept of power is divided into three types, often visualized as a "power triangle." These are Real Power (P), Reactive Power (Q), and Apparent Power (S).
What is Apparent Power?
Apparent power (S) is the vector sum of real power and reactive power in an AC circuit. It represents the "total" power that the electrical system must be capable of delivering, including both the power that does useful work and the power that sustains electric and magnetic fields. It's a crucial value for sizing electrical equipment like transformers, generators, and wiring, as these components must handle the total current associated with apparent power, not just the real power.
The Unit of Apparent Power: VA
The unit for apparent power is the volt-ampere (VA). This unit is intentionally used to differentiate it from the watt (W), which measures only real (useful) power. For large-scale systems, metric prefixes are used:
- Kilovolt-Ampere (kVA): 1,000 VA. This is a very common unit for sizing transformers and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).
- Megavolt-Ampere (MVA): 1,000,000 VA. This is used for rating large power transformers and generators in power stations and substations.
Understanding the difference between real power (kW) and apparent power (kVA) is key in electrical engineering. The ratio between them is known as the power factor. A purely resistive load (like a simple heater) has a power factor of 1, meaning its kW and kVA are equal. However, a motor (an inductive load) has a power factor less than 1, meaning it requires more kVA from the grid than the kW of real work it performs.