How Amps to kVA Works
kVA is apparent power, so the calculation depends on voltage and phase. For single-phase loads, current and voltage are multiplied directly. For three-phase loads, the √3 factor accounts for the three-phase system.
Quick note: This calculator does not need power factor because kVA is apparent power, not real power. If you need kW, you also need the power factor.
Formula Summary
Single-phase: kVA = (V × A) ÷ 1000
Three-phase: kVA = (√3 × V × A) ÷ 1000
Reverse: A = (kVA × 1000) ÷ V or ÷ (√3 × V)
Quick Reference Table
| Current | Voltage | Phase | kVA |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10A | 230V | Single | 2.30 |
| 16A | 230V | Single | 3.68 |
| 20A | 230V | Single | 4.60 |
| 16A | 400V | Three | 11.09 |
| 25A | 400V | Three | 17.32 |
| 32A | 415V | Three | 23.02 |
| 5A | 120V | Single | 0.60 |
| 8A | 120V | Single | 0.96 |
| 12A | 120V | Single | 1.44 |
| 15A | 230V | Single | 3.45 |
| 18A | 230V | Single | 4.14 |
| 24A | 230V | Single | 5.52 |
| 30A | 230V | Single | 6.90 |
| 40A | 230V | Single | 9.20 |
| 50A | 230V | Single | 11.50 |
| 60A | 230V | Single | 13.80 |
| 8A | 400V | Three | 5.54 |
| 10A | 400V | Three | 6.93 |
| 12A | 400V | Three | 8.31 |
| 15A | 400V | Three | 10.39 |
| 20A | 400V | Three | 13.86 |
| 25A | 415V | Three | 17.95 |
| 30A | 415V | Three | 21.54 |
| 40A | 415V | Three | 28.73 |
| 50A | 415V | Three | 35.92 |
| 60A | 415V | Three | 43.09 |
What Is kVA?
kVA stands for kilovolt-amps and represents apparent power in AC systems. It tells you the total electrical load before power factor is applied.
FAQ
Why use kVA instead of kW?
kVA is useful for sizing electrical equipment because it reflects the total apparent load, which is what transformers, generators, and panels must handle.
Do I need power factor?
Not for kVA. You only need power factor when converting kVA to kW or when estimating real power.
Can I use this for three-phase motors?
Yes. Just select three-phase and enter the actual line voltage and current.