Reactive Power Calculator
Calculate reactive power with transparent engineering inputs and the displayed formula.
Run deterministic checks for missing or mixed units, physical bounds, detectable out-of-range values and formula applicability. This is not an engineering approval or a complete code/compliance check.
Export the current calculation inputs and outputs with formula, assumptions, confirmed source credits, automated verification status, tool version and timestamp.
PROFENG Pro unlocks calculation-record exports. The calculation itself remains free.
PROFENG provides this tool for engineering screening and educational use. Check the calculation basis, units, physical assumptions, applicable standards, safety factors, equipment data and project-specific requirements before design, procurement or operation.
Turn this result into a calculation record
Carry the tool context into the PROFENG calculation-check and record workspace without implying certification or engineering approval.
Why use this reactive power calculator?
Calculate reactive power with transparent engineering inputs and the displayed formula. The displayed relationship is Q = P tan(arccos PF).
What this calculation does
This calculator determines reactive power from real power, power factor. Use it for transparent electrical screening calculations before equipment selection, protection studies or detailed circuit analysis.
Formula and engineering variables
Q = P tan(arccos PF)
| Variable | Definition | Unit | Working guidance |
|---|---|---|---|
power | Real power | kW | Illustrative screening band: 0 to about 300 kW. This is not a design limit. |
pf | Power factor | dimensionless | Physical range: 0–1. |
Ranges above are screening guidance or physical bounds where stated. They are not code limits or manufacturer ratings.
Calculated outputs
- Reactive power (kVAr): power*Math.tan(Math.acos(pf))
Worked example
- Real power (power) = 30 kW
- Power factor (pf) = 0.9
(30)*Math.tan(Math.acos((0.9))) = 14.53 kVArReactive power: 14.53 kVArAssumptions
- The entered quantities describe the same electrical operating state.
- AC quantities are interpreted using the formula's stated phase and power-factor assumptions.
- Nominal values do not represent transient, fault or harmonic behavior unless explicitly included.
Limitations
- Protection, conductor ampacity, harmonics, starting duty, insulation coordination and equipment ratings require separate checks.
- Final electrical design must follow the applicable installation and equipment standards.
- Power factor is between 0 and 1 and is interpreted as the cosine of phase angle for the intended load.
- Harmonic/distortion power factor is not represented by this simple relation.
- The displayed default values are a worked example only; replace them with traceable project or measurement data.
Formula source and acknowledgement
Source being confirmed. PROFENG has not yet approved a published source for this exact implementation, so no candidate book, paper or standard is displayed here.
Limits of use for this relationship
- Power factor is between 0 and 1 and is interpreted as the cosine of phase angle for the intended load.
- Harmonic/distortion power factor is not represented by this simple relation.
Read the PROFENG methodology for formula sourcing and automated checks →
How to use it
Start with the inputs shown above, review the assumptions or options, then generate the result. Where the tool creates a file, keep the original until you have opened and checked the downloaded output.
Frequently asked questions
What does Reactive Power Calculator calculate?
This calculator determines reactive power from real power, power factor. Use it for transparent electrical screening calculations before equipment selection, protection studies or detailed circuit analysis.
What formula does Reactive Power Calculator use?
The calculator uses Q = P tan(arccos PF). Every input used by the implementation is listed in the variable table on this page.
How is the worked example for Reactive Power Calculator checked?
PROFENG substitutes the displayed default values into the implemented relationship and compares the result against automated verification cases where an independent verifier is available.
What assumptions matter most for Reactive Power Calculator?
The entered quantities describe the same electrical operating state. AC quantities are interpreted using the formula's stated phase and power-factor assumptions. Nominal values do not represent transient, fault or harmonic behavior unless explicitly included.
Can I use this result for final design or procurement?
Use it as an engineering screening calculation. Final design, procurement, operation or compliance decisions require project-specific data and the applicable engineering method, standard or manufacturer information.
QA, changelog and corrections
Last QA update: 30 September 2026.
Automated verification passed – 30 September 2026 – six numerical cases checked, with dimensional checks, independent cross-checks for calculators, and unit round-trip checks for converters where applicable.
Changelog
30 September 2026 – source/indexation status, metadata and correction pathway reviewed. Engineering tools display the automated verification label only when they are inside the passing Part 3 verification scope.