What is three-phase power?

Three-phase AC uses three voltages 120° apart — delivers constant power to motors and loads with less copper than single-phase for the same kW. Standard in Indian industry (415 V line).

Quick revision

Skim these first — then read the full notes below.

  • VL = √3 × Vph in star; IL = Iph in star
  • Power P = √3 VL IL cos φ for balanced load
  • Indian distribution: 11 kV / 415 V, 50 Hz
  • Phase sequence matters for motor direction

Exams & GATE

  • 1
    Basic but high-scoring GATE/network questions.
  • 2
    Practice star-delta conversions until automatic.

Interview prep

Panel interviews: read a motor nameplate (kW, V, A, pf, RPM). Explain how to calculate line current.

📖 Standard books (India)

  • Electrical Power SystemsCL Wadhwa

    Read: Ch. 2–3

    Generation, transmission, and fault basics

Understand the concept

Every electrical diploma and B.Tech student in India learns three-phase before machines — it is the language of shop floor electrical maintenance.
V_RV_YV_B120° apart · V_L = √3 V_ph (star)
Fig — Balanced 3φ voltages (Nagrath & Kothari)

Schematic diagram for study — aligned with standard B.Tech / GATE syllabus.

Three-phase phasor diagram (balanced). V_L = √3 V_ph (star). Phase sequence R-Y-B at 120° spacing.