This web-based tool converts between reactive power (VAR) and capacitance (µF) for both single-phase and three-phase AC systems. It supports power factor correction calculations, capacitor sizing, and electrical system commissioning.
The calculator uses the following standard electrical engineering formulas:
Q (VAR) = 2π × f × C (µF) × V² × 10⁻⁶
Q (VAR) = 3 × 2π × f × C (µF) × V² × 10⁻⁶
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Reactive Power (VAR) | Reactive power supplied by the capacitor, in VAR. Used to calculate required capacitance (µF). |
| Voltage (V) | - Single-phase: Phase-to-neutral voltage - Three-phase: Line-to-line (phase-to-phase) voltage Unit: Volts (V) |
| Frequency (Hz) | Number of cycles per second. Common values: 50 Hz (Europe), 60 Hz (North America). |
Single-phase system:
Reactive power:
Q = 2π × 50 × 40 × (230)² × 10⁻⁶ ≈ 6.78 kVAR
Reverse calculation:
To convert reactive power (VAR) to capacitance (µF), use the formula:
C (µF) = Q (VAR) ÷ (2π × f × V² × 10⁻⁶)
For three-phase: multiply denominator by 3.
Example: For 1000 VAR at 230 V, 50 Hz → C ≈ 1000 ÷ (2π × 50 × 230² × 10⁻⁶) ≈ 61.4 µF
VAR (Volt-Ampere Reactive) is a unit of reactive power — the amount of energy stored and released by capacitors or inductors.
µF (microfarad) is a unit of capacitance — a physical property of the capacitor.
They are related through voltage and frequency via the formula above.
Yes. The calculator supports both single-phase and three-phase systems. For three-phase, select the appropriate option and input line-to-line voltage. The formula automatically multiplies by 3.
Power factor correction improves system efficiency by reducing reactive current, which:
It depends on voltage and frequency. For example:
Use this calculator to get precise values for your system.
Over-correction leads to overcompensation, where the power factor becomes leading (greater than 1). This can cause:
Always size capacitors based on actual load requirements.