Electrical · Free Calculator
kW to kVA Calculator
Convert between real power (kW) and apparent power (kVA) using the power factor, and see the reactive power.
kW ↔ kVAkVARGenerator sizingPower factor
kW
cos φ
Apparent power100 kVA
Reactive power60 kVAR
How this result was calculated
- kVA = kW ÷ pf = 80 ÷ 0.8 = 100
- kVAR = √(kVA² − kW²) = 60
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kW, kVA and kVAR
kVA = kW ÷ pf
kW = kVA × pf
kVAR = √(kVA² − kW²)
kW = kVA × pf
kVAR = √(kVA² − kW²)
Worked example
An 80 kW load at pf 0.8 needs 80 ÷ 0.8 = 100 kVA and draws 60 kVAR of reactive power.
Key insight: diesel generators are usually rated at pf 0.8, so a 100 kVA set delivers at most 80 kW. Size on both kW and kVA.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert kW to kVA?
Divide kW by the power factor. At pf 0.8, 1 kW = 1.25 kVA.
Is kVA always bigger than kW?
Yes, except at unity power factor where they are equal.
What power factor do generators use?
Most industrial generators are rated at 0.8 lagging.
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