Power factor: With alternating current, the recorded (or apparent) power (kVA) of an inductive load is greater than the active power (kW) used in the calculation.

Cos phi = active power/apparent effect.

Examples:

A. Resistive loads such as filament lamps and heating elements: cos phi = 1

B. Inductive loads:

Electric hand-operated tools: cos phi ~ 0,97
Electric motor: cos phi = 0.7 — 0.8
Fluorescent lamps, welding transformers: cos phi ~ 0,5