kW to Amps Calculator
Work out the current a load draws in amps from its power. Enter a kW rating with the system voltage, phase, and power factor. The result updates as you type. Working from apparent power instead? Use the kVA to Amps calculator.
When to use it
On a temporary power job you usually know a load in kilowatts from its nameplate, but the cable, the breaker, and the distribution board are all sized in amps. This converter bridges the two, so you can check that a feeder or a generator outlet can carry the load before it ships to site. The UAE runs at 400 V three phase, which is the default here.
How it is calculated
For three phase, amps = (kVA x 1000) / (1.732 x volts). For single phase, drop the 1.732. When you enter kW, the calculator first converts to kVA using kVA = kW / power factor.
A 1 kW load at 400 V three phase, power factor 0.8: kVA = 1 / 0.8 = 1.25, amps = 1250 / (1.732 x 400) = 1.80 A.
Common conversions
| Load (kW) | Current (A) |
|---|---|
| 10 kW | 18.0 A |
| 20 kW | 36.1 A |
| 50 kW | 90.2 A |
| 100 kW | 180.4 A |
| 200 kW | 360.8 A |
| 500 kW | 902.1 A |
Frequently asked questions
How do you convert kW to amps?
Convert kW to kVA by dividing by the power factor, then divide by the voltage, and by 1.732 as well for three phase. So amps = (kW x 1000) / (1.732 x volts x power factor) on a three phase supply.
How do you convert kVA to amps instead?
Use the kVA to Amps calculator. kVA is apparent power, so it converts straight to amps without power factor. Power factor only applies when you start from kW.
How do you convert kVA to amps?
Divide the kVA by the voltage, and by 1.732 for three phase: amps = (kVA x 1000) / (1.732 x volts).
What voltage and power factor should I use in the UAE?
The UAE follows the IEC standard: 400 V line to line for three phase and 230 V line to neutral for single phase. For a mixed site load, 0.8 power factor is a safe default unless the equipment nameplate gives a specific figure.
Should I size the cable and breaker to the exact amps?
No. Treat the calculated current as the running load and add headroom. Cables and breakers are picked from the next standard size up, with allowance for grouping, ambient temperature, and motor starting current.