Electrical Unit Converter
Convert common electrical units for power, current, voltage, length, energy, resistance, and conductor area.
Conversion details
Converted value
Converted real power using the unit factors shown in the method.
About this converter
Convert compatible units for real power, apparent power, current, voltage, length, energy, resistance, and area. The AWG option converts a selected conductor size to nominal bare-conductor area in kcmil, circular mils, square millimeters, or square inches.
Unit conversions do not check equipment ratings, conductor ampacity, or code requirements.
Method and assumptions
Each conversion scales the entered value through a base unit for its quantity. For example, 1 ft = 304.8 mm and 1 kW = 1,000 W. Real power and apparent power use separate conversion groups.
AWG area uses the nominal gauge diameter relationship: d = 0.005 in × 92(36 − n)/39, where n is the AWG number. The converter calculates the circular area as πd² ÷ 4, then converts that area to the selected unit. For aught sizes, 1/0 is n = 0, 2/0 is n = −1, 3/0 is n = −2, and 4/0 is n = −3.
Displayed results are rounded to seven significant digits. Use the unrounded physical specifications and nameplate values when equipment tolerances matter.
Interpret the result
Use the converted number with the selected unit shown beside it. Do not treat kVA and kW as interchangeable: real power depends on power factor. Do not use nominal conductor area alone to choose a wire size or overcurrent protection.
FAQs
Can I convert kVA directly to kW?
No. kVA measures apparent power and kW measures real power. Converting between them requires power factor, so this tool keeps those quantities in separate categories.
What does the AWG area result represent?
It is the nominal circular cross-sectional area calculated from the bare-conductor diameter defined by the AWG scale. It does not include insulation or account for strand construction.
Does the AWG area result determine ampacity?
No. Cross-sectional area alone does not determine an installed conductor’s allowable current. Ampacity depends on conductor material, insulation, terminals, installation method, ambient conditions, and applicable requirements.
Why is horsepower labeled mechanical?
Horsepower has more than one definition. This converter uses mechanical horsepower, equal to 745.699871582 watts.
Sources
- NIST Guide to the SI, Appendix B: Conversion Factors — conversion-factor method and unit relationships.
- U.S. Bureau of Standards Circular No. 31, Copper Wire Tables — American Wire Gage diameter progression and nominal wire dimensions.