When buying electrical devices, we encounter the parameter of electrical power expressed in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW).
One of the exceptions are power generators and UPS systems, where the power value is given in VA or kVA (kilovolt-amperes).
Let’s take a closer look at what this means.
When buying electrical devices, we encounter the parameter of electrical power specified in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW). One of the exceptions are power generators and UPS systems, where the power value is given in VA or kVA (kilovolt-amperes).
Let’s take a closer look at what this means.
Active powerActive power, measured in W or kW (watt, kilowatt), is the actual power consumed by devices powered by a generator or UPS. It is commonly referred to as rated power. |
Reactive powerReactive power describes the oscillation of electrical energy between elements of an electrical circuit. The unit of reactive power is 1 var. In justified cases, reactive power compensators built on the basis of an asynchronous generator are used. |
Apparent powerApparent power is the sum of active power and reactive power. The unit of apparent power is VA or kVA (volt-ampere, kilovolt-ampere). The factor linking the ratio of active power to apparent power is the power factor, indicated on the nameplate as cos φ. In generators with a three-phase alternator, it is usually 0.8, or 1 for a single-phase alternator. For UPS systems, however, it may vary from 0.55 to 1. |
For example:
a three-phase “industrial” generator with a power of 10 kVA (apparent power) provides the user with 8 kW of active power.
For more information, please contact our technical and sales advisors.
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