Measurement of Power and Power Factor

of a Three-Phase Balanced Load by Two

1. This lab manual outlines the procedure for measuring the power and power factor of a
three-phase balanced load using the two-wattmeter method. This method is a
versatile technique that allows for the determination of total power consumed by a
three-phase load without requiring a neutral connection. The experiment involves
connecting two wattmeters in a specific configuration to measure the power in two of
the three phases. By analyzing the readings of these wattmeters, the total power and
power factor of the balanced load can be calculated. This manual provides the
necessary theoretical background, circuit diagram, step-by-step procedure, and
calculations required to perform the experiment effectively and understand the
underlying principles.

1. Introduction

The two-wattmeter method is a widely used technique for measuring the total power
consumed by a three-phase load, whether it is balanced or unbalanced, without the need for
a neutral connection. This method is particularly useful in industrial settings where
three-phase power systems are prevalent. In the case of a balanced load, the calculations are
simplified, allowing for the determination of both the total power and the power factor of
the load.

2. Theory

In a three-phase system, the total instantaneous power is the sum of the instantaneous
powers in each of the three phases. For a balanced three-phase load, the voltages and
currents in each phase are equal in magnitude and are displaced by 120 degrees. The
two-wattmeter method utilizes two wattmeters connected in a specific configuration to
measure the power in two of the three phases.
 • Wattmeter 1: Current coil in line A, voltage coil between lines A and B.
• Wattmeter 2: Current coil in line C, voltage coil between lines C and B.

The readings of the wattmeters, W1 and W2, are given by:

$he two-wattmeter method is a technique used to measure the total power in a three-phase,
three-wire system, whether balanced or unbalanced. It involves using two wattmeters, with
their current coils connected in series with any two lines and their potential coils
connected between those lines and the third line. For a balanced load, the total power is
simply the algebraic sum of the two wattmeter readings.
Here's a breakdown of the method:
How it works:
1. 1. Connections:
1. Two wattmeters are connected in the circuit. The current coils of the wattmeters are
connected in series with two lines (e.g., R and Y), and the potential coils are connected
between those lines and the third line (e.g., B).
2. 2. Readings:
2. Each wattmeter measures the power in its respective phase. For a balanced load, the
total power is the sum of the two wattmeter readings.
3. 3. Balanced Load Considerations:
3. In a balanced load, the current in each phase lags the voltage by the same angle.
Formulas for Balanced Loads:
• If W1 and W2 are the readings of the two wattmeters, then the total power P is:

P = W1 + W2
• The power factor (cos φ) can also be determined from the wattmeter readings:
cos φ = (W1 - W2) / (√3 * |W1 + W2|)

3. Apparatus Required
• Three-phase autotransformer (Variac)
• Three-phase resistive load bank
• Two wattmeters
• Ammeter
• Voltmeter
• Connecting wires
• Power supply

4. Circuit Diagram

[A circuit diagram would be included here, showing the connection of the two wattmeters,
ammeter, voltmeter, three-phase autotransformer, and the three-phase resistive load. The
diagram should clearly show the current and voltage coil connections for each wattmeter.]

5. Procedure
1. Circuit Setup: Connect the circuit as shown in the circuit diagram. Ensure that the
polarities of the wattmeter connections are correct.
2. Initial Adjustments: Set the three-phase autotransformer to its minimum voltage
position. Ensure the load bank is initially set to its minimum load (maximum resistance).
3. Power On: Turn on the power supply.
4. Voltage Adjustment: Gradually increase the voltage using the three-phase
autotransformer until the desired line voltage is reached (e.g., 400V).
 5. Load Variation: Increase the load in steps by decreasing the resistance of the load
bank. At each step, record the following readings:

• Wattmeter 1 reading (W1)

6. Observations and Calculations

Calculate the following for each set of readings:

7. Results and Discussion

Present the calculated values of total power and power factor in a tabular format. Discuss the
following:

• Compare the total power calculated from the wattmeter readings with the theoretical
value. Analyze any discrepancies and their possible causes (e.g., instrument errors,
slight load imbalance).
• Analyze the variation of power factor with the load.
• Discuss the advantages and limitations of the two-wattmeter method.
• Explain how the power factor affects the power consumption.

8. Conclusion
Summarize the findings of the experiment. State whether the objectives of the experiment
were achieved. Comment on the accuracy of the two-wattmeter method for measuring
power and power factor in a balanced three-phase load.

9. Precautions
• Ensure that the connections are made correctly and are tight.
• Do not exceed the rated voltage and current of the instruments.
• Start with the autotransformer at its minimum voltage position.
• Increase the load gradually.
• Observe the polarities of the wattmeter connections carefully. A reversed connection
will result in