1. What is Electric Motor Horsepower?

Definition: Horsepower (HP) is a unit of power that measures the rate at which work is done by an electric motor.

Purpose: This calculator helps determine the mechanical output power of an electric motor based on its electrical characteristics.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( HP \) — Horsepower output
• \( V \) — Voltage (volts)
• \( I \) — Current (amps)
• \( \eta \) — Motor efficiency (0-1)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (0-1)
• 746 — Conversion factor (watts to HP)

Explanation: The formula calculates the electrical power input, accounts for efficiency and power factor, then converts watts to horsepower.

3. Importance of Horsepower Calculation

Details: Knowing a motor's horsepower helps in selecting the right motor for an application, ensuring proper performance and preventing overload.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the motor's voltage, current draw, efficiency (default 0.9), and power factor (default 0.85). Efficiency and power factor must be between 0 and 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is motor efficiency?
A: Efficiency (η) is the ratio of mechanical power output to electrical power input, typically 0.7-0.95 for electric motors.

Q2: What is power factor?
A: Power factor (PF) is the ratio of real power to apparent power, usually 0.8-0.95 for AC motors at full load.

Q3: Why divide by 746?
A: 1 horsepower equals 746 watts, so we divide by 746 to convert from watts to HP.

Q4: Can I use this for DC motors?
A: Yes, for DC motors set power factor to 1 (DC has no reactive power).

Q5: Where do I find motor specifications?
A: Check the motor nameplate or manufacturer's datasheet for voltage, current, efficiency and power factor.