Power factor
Power factor meaning in Australian kW, kVA, kVAr and current records.
Power factor in Australian records
Power factor describes the relationship between real power and apparent power in an a.c. load record. Use the term when kW, kVA, kVAr and current values need to be interpreted together.
The value is usually written as a ratio or decimal, not as a unit. In a 230/400 V, 50 Hz Australian context it can change the current derived from a power value, so it should stay attached to the load or equipment data that supplied it.
Where PF affects calculations
Power factor wording appears in kVA/kW conversion, load-current calculations, power-factor relationship charts and correction estimates. It is also common in motor, generator and larger load records where apparent power matters.
| Record context | Keep visible | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| kW to kVA conversion | real power, apparent power and power factor | Shows which relationship is being used |
| Load-current calculation | voltage, phase and power factor | Keeps derived current traceable |
| Correction estimate | existing and target power factor plus kVAr result | Separates worksheet output from equipment selection |
Power factor vs efficiency or loading
Power factor is not kW, kVA or kVAr by itself. It connects those values in a record and must not be treated as a product choice or universal correction target.
Power-factor correction may involve tariffs, product data, site measurements and specialist review. This glossary page only explains the term used by AUWiring tools.
Using PF with kW and kVA
Use the power-factor chart for relationships. Use the kVA, kW and power factor calculator for entered values. Use correction tools only as worksheet estimates with the project data kept visible.
Source and review
Check the terminology source, review timing and Australian application before carrying this term into a project record.
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Source | AUWiring power-factor relationship chart, electrical unit table and power calculator wording. |
| Source type | Australian terminology |
| Derivation basis | AUWiring Australian glossary term; no controlled AS/NZS text is reproduced. |
| Last checked | 2026-07-13 |
| Review interval | Annual terminology review or sooner if power-factor calculator wording changes. |
| Review trigger | Update when power-factor chart, correction calculator or unit wording changes. |
| Version used | T18-2026-07-13 |
| Australian application | Australia; Australian English power calculation terminology. |