In the voltage drop formula, how do you complete the calculation for the 3 Phase configuration?

The voltage drop formula for a 3-phase configuration includes essential components that account for the specific characteristics of three-phase systems. In this case, the correct approach is to multiply the three-phase factor by a constant (which reflects the specific attributes of the system), the current in amps, the distance in length, and then divide by the circular mils (Cmils) of the conductor.

This formula is foundational because the division by Cmils ensures that the resistance per unit length is taken into account. In three-phase systems, the voltage drop needs to factor in the total current flowing through the conductors and the resistance of the wires. The reduction of voltage caused by this resistance as the current travels the specified length is a critical aspect of electrical system design.

The inclusion of the three-phase constant recognizes the differences in how three-phase power is distributed and utilized compared to single-phase systems, where the equations differ due to the nature of the loads and the phase relationships. This makes the calculation specific and accurate for three-phase applications, which is why this formulation is essential in properly assessing voltage drop in such configurations.