KVA

 

KVA stands for "Kilo-Volt-Ampere" and is a unit of power in the electrical system. It is used to measure the apparent power in an alternating current (AC) circuit. Apparent power is the vector sum of the real power (measured in watts) and the reactive power (measured in volt-amperes reactive or VARs) in an AC circuit.

KVA is a unit of apparent power and is equal to the product of the voltage (measured in volts) and the current (measured in amperes) in an AC circuit. It is typically used to measure the power capacity of electrical equipment such as generators, transformers, and motors. For example, a generator with a capacity of 500 KVA can deliver 500 kilovolts-amperes of apparent power.

It's important to note that KVA is not the same as kW (kilowatts) which is the unit of real power, which is the power that is used to do work. KVA is larger than kW because it also includes the power that is used to create and maintain the magnetic fields in motors and generators, called Reactive Power.

In the electrical power system, it is important to match the KVA rating of equipment to the power demand of the system. A mismatch can result in equipment damage, poor power quality, and increased energy costs.