Transformer worksheet

kVA and Amps Calculator

Convert between apparent power and current; 45 kVA at 480 V 3-phase gives 54.1 A, while 15 kVA at 240 V 1-phase gives 62.5 A.

Convert kVA and Amps

Convert between apparent power and current for transformer, generator, UPS, and load schedule worksheets: 45 kVA at 480 V 3-phase gives 54.1 A, while 15 kVA at 240 V 1-phase gives 62.5 A.

Result

Amps

90.21 A

Result notes

Keep the entered values, assumptions, and result together when adding this calculation to job notes or submittal records. Final installation choices should align with the applicable code edition, equipment listing, manufacturer instructions, local amendments, and AHJ requirements.

Formula and field context

Convert between apparent power and current; 45 kVA at 480 V 3-phase gives 54.1 A, while 15 kVA at 240 V 1-phase gives 62.5 A.

Formula context

kVA to Amps Chart

For transformer and distribution work, kVA-to-amps is a line-current screen. 45 kVA at 480 V 3-phase gives about 54.1 A, while 15 kVA at 240 V 1-phase gives 62.5 A. Single-phase current uses kVA x 1000 divided by voltage. Balanced three-phase current uses kVA x 1000 divided by 1.732 x line-to-line voltage. Use the calculator after the chart when the result will feed a transformer schedule, feeder review, load bank setup, or equipment submittal.

Formula

Single phase: A = kVA x 1000 / V. Three phase: A = kVA x 1000 / (1.732 x VLL).

Variables to keep with the result

  • A is line current in amperes.
  • kVA is apparent power from the transformer, UPS, generator, or load schedule.
  • V is circuit voltage for single-phase work.
  • VLL is line-to-line voltage for balanced three-phase systems.

Formula and voltage basis

For single-phase apparent power, amps equals kVA times 1,000 divided by volts. For balanced three-phase equipment, amps equals kVA times 1,000 divided by the square root of 3 and line-to-line volts. This is why a 75 kVA transformer has a different full-load current at 208 V than it does at 480 V.

Where electricians use it

This conversion is common when reviewing transformer secondary current, generator load, UPS output, and commercial load schedules. It supports field documentation before opening a full transformer or generator calculator, especially when the nameplate is written in kVA instead of kW.

Limits and escalation

The result is an apparent-power current, not a short-circuit study, conductor selection, or overcurrent-device setting. Use the transformer calculator for full-load current and voltage relationship review, and use the transformer impedance or short-circuit calculator when available fault current matters.

Common Questions

Is kVA the same as kW?
No. kVA is apparent power. kW is real power. They match only when power factor is 1.
Why does three-phase current calculate lower than single-phase current?
Balanced three-phase power shares the load across three phase conductors, so the line-current formula includes the square root of 3.
Can I size a transformer from this calculation alone?
No. This calculation covers the kVA and current relationship. The transformer calculator adds sizing context, voltage, load, impedance, and installation review.