If a three-phase load draws 37.3 amps at 208 volts, what is its kVA usage?

To determine the kVA usage of a three-phase load, the following formula is used:

kVA = (Volts × Amps × √3) / 1000

In this scenario, you have a load that draws 37.3 amps at 208 volts. For a three-phase system, √3 (approximately 1.732) is a crucial factor that accounts for the nature of three-phase power.

Using the values provided:

1. First, calculate the product of the voltage and current:

208 volts * 37.3 amps = 7,754.4 volt-amperes (VA).

2. Next, multiply that by √3:

7,754.4 VA * 1.732 = 13,434.86 VA.

3. Finally, convert VA to kVA by dividing by 1000:

13,434.86 VA / 1000 = 13.435 kVA.

Rounding to three decimal places gives approximately 13.438 kVA, making this the correct answer. Understanding phase relationships and the conversion between VA and kVA is essential for accurately calculating power usage in electrical systems.