Home Back

Converting Amps to Horsepower

Horsepower Formula:

\[ HP = \frac{V \times I \times \eta \times PF}{746} \]

volts
amps

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From: To:

1. What is Amps to Horsepower Conversion?

Definition: This calculator converts electrical measurements (volts and amps) to mechanical power (horsepower) using efficiency and power factor.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians determine the mechanical power output of electric motors based on their electrical input.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ HP = \frac{V \times I \times \eta \times PF}{746} \]

Where:

Explanation: The electrical power (V×I) is adjusted by efficiency and power factor to get actual mechanical power, then converted to horsepower.

3. Importance of Accurate Conversion

Details: Proper conversion ensures correct motor sizing, energy efficiency calculations, and system performance evaluation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter voltage in volts, current in amps, efficiency (default 0.85), and power factor (default 0.9). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the power factor?
A: Power factor represents the ratio of real power to apparent power in AC circuits, typically between 0 and 1.

Q2: Why is efficiency important?
A: Efficiency accounts for energy losses in the motor, converting electrical power to mechanical power.

Q3: What's a typical efficiency value?
A: Most electric motors have efficiencies between 80-95% (0.8-0.95), depending on size and type.

Q4: Why divide by 746?
A: 746 watts equals 1 horsepower, the conversion factor between electrical and mechanical power units.

Q5: Does this work for both AC and DC motors?
A: Yes, but for DC motors, set power factor to 1 as there's no reactive power component.

Converting Amps to Horsepower© - All Rights Reserved 2025