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Single conversion
To convert from Kilovolt-Ampere Reactive (kVAR) to Volt-Ampere Reactive (VAR), use the following formula:
Let's convert 5 Kilovolt-Ampere Reactive (kVAR) to Volt-Ampere Reactive (VAR).
Using the formula:
Therefore, 5 Kilovolt-Ampere Reactive (kVAR) is equal to Volt-Ampere Reactive (VAR).
Here are some quick reference conversions from Kilovolt-Ampere Reactive (kVAR) to Volt-Ampere Reactive (VAR):
| Kilovolt-Amperes Reactive | Volt-Amperes Reactive |
|---|---|
| 0.000001 kVAR | VAR |
| 0.001 kVAR | VAR |
| 0.1 kVAR | VAR |
| 1 kVAR | VAR |
| 2 kVAR | VAR |
| 3 kVAR | VAR |
| 4 kVAR | VAR |
| 5 kVAR | VAR |
| 6 kVAR | VAR |
| 7 kVAR | VAR |
| 8 kVAR | VAR |
| 9 kVAR | VAR |
| 10 kVAR | VAR |
| 20 kVAR | VAR |
| 30 kVAR | VAR |
| 40 kVAR | VAR |
| 50 kVAR | VAR |
| 100 kVAR | VAR |
| 1000 kVAR | VAR |
| 10000 kVAR | VAR |
For all Reactive Power converters, choose units using the From/To dropdowns above.
A Kilovolt-Ampere Reactive (kVAR) is a unit used to measure reactive power in an electrical system.
One kVAR is equal to one thousand volt-amperes reactive (VAR). Think of it as the counterpart to a kilowatt (kW), which measures real power (also known as "working power").
kVAR measures reactive power, often called "non-working" power or "wattless" power.
While it doesn't perform actual work (like lighting a bulb), it's essential for equipment that uses magnetic fields to operate. This includes common industrial and commercial items like:
This power is "reactive" because it just moves back and forth (oscillates) between the power source and the load. This extra movement increases the total current in the wires, which can put a strain on the entire electrical system.
A high amount of kVAR is the primary cause of a poor power factor.
Power factor is a critical measure of your electrical efficiency, on a scale from 0 to 1. A low power factor score means your system is using energy inefficiently.
To fix this, buildings install power factor correction (PFC) systems, which are usually capacitor banks. These banks supply the needed reactive power directly to the equipment.
This process "cancels out" the reactive power that would otherwise be pulled from the utility grid, which provides several key benefits:
Excessive kVAR is bad for both your system's health and your wallet. Because it increases the total current flowing through your wiring, high kVAR leads to several significant problems:
To cover the costs of this strain on the grid, utility companies often charge demand fees or power factor penalties, especially for commercial and industrial customers.
A Volt-Ampere Reactive (VAR) is the unit used to measure reactive power in an electrical system.
Think of it as the "helper" power that supports the "real" power (Watts) in doing work.
Volt-Ampere Reactive (VAR) is a crucial metric for optimizing a power system's power factor.
A high VAR reading signifies a large amount of reactive power, often leading to an inefficient power factor and higher energy costs.
By implementing power factor correction solutions, such as capacitor banks, businesses can effectively reduce their VAR demand.
This not only improves overall electrical efficiency and lowers utility bills but also frees up system capacity, allowing you to run more equipment without overloading your system.
This makes VAR management essential for any commercial or industrial facility looking to optimize efficiency and reduce costs.
In AC power systems, these three units are related and form the "power triangle":
Understanding this relationship is essential for correctly sizing critical electrical infrastructure like generators, transformers, and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).
The system must be able to supply both the real power (W) and the reactive power (VAR).
Reactive power, measured in VARs, is primarily produced by inductive loads connected to an electrical grid.
Common sources include electric motors, transformers, and industrial machinery, all of which require reactive power to establish their magnetic fields. While this power is necessary for the equipment to function, it does not contribute to useful work.
Excessive VARs on the system increase the total current flow. While necessary, too much reactive power is inefficient and can lead to problems like higher energy losses, voltage drops, and potential utility penalties, reducing the overall efficiency of your electrical network.