Electricity and Power -
The primary term used to discuss electric power in metric and English units is watts or W and when discussing larger amounts of power we use the term kilo-watts or kW. When generating proper or consuming large amounts of power we use the term mega-watts or MW. Giga-watts (GW) describe large amounts power such as a power distribution grid.
AC electricity was developed by Nikolas Tesla and with this alternating current (AC) came PF or power factor. This is because AC circuitry is usually loaded up with inductive electric circuitry and components. As electrical engineers we describe this as reactive power or volt-amperes-reactive (VAR) and in most large applications kilo-volt-amperes-reactive (kVAR). The objective is to have zero kVAR and when this is achieved you have a power factor of one or unity where the apparent power is maximumized. Apparent power is described by volt-amperes (VA) and for larger power usage kVA or kilo-volt-amperes.
Before starting any design or electrical project consider these electric reference, electrical codes like National Electrical Code®, which is the most widely adopted building code in the world for safe and efficient electrical installations. Our other electrical reference books will extend your knowledge right away, and you will be years ahead of your peers in the electrical industry.
