15 Kva to Hp – Full Calculation Guide

The conversion of 15 kva to horsepower (hp) results in approximately 19.2 hp.

This conversion is based on the relation between apparent power in kva and real power in hp, considering a power factor. Typically, 1 kva roughly equals 1.341 hp when assuming a power factor of 0.8 and a three-phase system, so multiplying 15 kva by this factor gives the result.

Understanding the Conversion from kva to hp

The conversion from kva to hp depends on the power factor and whether the system is single-phase or three-phase. For three-phase systems, the formula involves multiplying kva by 1.341 to get hp, assuming a power factor of 0.8. If the power factor changes, the result will be different. The calculation is essential for electrical system sizing and understanding motor capacities.

Conversion Tool


Result in hp:

Conversion Formula

The formula to convert kva to hp is: hp = kva × 1.341 / (power factor). For most practical purposes, assuming a power factor of 0.8, the formula simplifies to hp = kva × 1.341. This works because kva measures apparent power, and hp measures real power, factoring in efficiency and power factor. For example, converting 10 kva: 10 × 1.341 = 13.41 hp.

Conversion Example

  • Convert 20 kva to hp:
    • Multiply 20 by 1.341
    • 20 × 1.341 = 26.82 hp
  • Convert 5 kva to hp:
    • Multiply 5 by 1.341
    • 5 × 1.341 = 6.705 hp
  • Convert 30 kva to hp:
    • Multiply 30 by 1.341
    • 30 × 1.341 = 40.23 hp
  • Convert 12 kva to hp:
    • Multiply 12 by 1.341
    • 12 × 1.341 = 16.092 hp
  • Convert 25 kva to hp:
    • Multiply 25 by 1.341
    • 25 × 1.341 = 33.525 hp

Conversion Chart

kva hp
-10.0 -13.41
-5.0 -6.705
0.0 0.0
5.0 6.705
10.0 13.41
15.0 20.115
20.0 26.82
25.0 33.525
30.0 40.23
35.0 46.935
40.0 53.64

This chart helps you quickly see the equivalent hp for various kva values, making it easier to compare or convert power levels without manual calculation.

Related Conversion Questions

  • How many horsepower is 15 kva in a three-phase motor?
  • What is the hp equivalent of 15 kva at a power factor of 0.9?
  • Can I convert 15 kva directly to hp for single-phase systems?
  • What is the power factor assumption behind converting kva to hp?
  • How do I determine hp from kva ratings in industrial equipment?
  • Is the 1.341 conversion factor valid for all types of electrical loads?
  • What does 15 kva mean in terms of motor power output?

Conversion Definitions

kva: Kilo-volt-amperes (kva) measures apparent power in AC electrical systems, combining voltage and current without considering phase angle or power efficiency, used primarily for sizing transformers and generators.

hp: Horsepower (hp) is a unit of real power representing the work rate of engines or motors, measuring mechanical power output, with 1 hp approximately equal to 745.7 watts, used in various mechanical and electrical contexts.

Conversion FAQs

How accurate is the 1.341 factor when converting kva to hp?

The 1.341 factor assumes a power factor of 0.8 and a three-phase system, which is common but not universal. If the power factor differs significantly, the actual hp will be higher or lower, making the conversion approximate rather than exact.

Can I use this conversion for single-phase systems?

For single-phase systems, the conversion factor changes, and you need to account for the specific power factor and voltage. The simple 1.341 multiplier applies mainly to three-phase systems with typical assumptions.

What is the impact of power factor on converting kva to hp?

Power factor directly influences real power calculation; a lower power factor results in less actual hp for the same kva value. Adjustments are necessary if your system’s power factor deviates from 0.8 to ensure accurate conversions.

How do I convert kva to hp if I know the system’s voltage and current?

Calculate apparent power in kva by multiplying voltage and current, then apply the conversion factor (1.341). For precise results, consider system phase and power factor, especially in non-standard configurations.