Maximum Demand Calculator

Calculator

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What is Maximum Demand?

Maximum Demand is the highest amount of electrical power consumed during a given time period (often 15 or 30 minutes) under normal operations. 

Utilities frequently use this figure for billing purposes, particularly in industrial & commercial settings.

Monitoring and calculating maximum demand is necessary for efficient

• Power system design, 
• Load management, and 
• Avoiding penalties for exceeding permitted usage limits.

Maximum Demand Calculator 

To determine maximum demand, you require the following inputs:

• Peak Operating Load (kW): This is the maximum load (in kilowatts) that your equipment (or) facility consumes during peak hours.
• Power Factor (P.F): Power factor (P.F) is the ratio of real power (kW) to apparent power (kVA). It represents the efficiency of power consumption.

Using AS/NZS3000 standard, this free online calculator determines the maximum demand for non-domestic installations.

Maximum Demand Formula

Maximum Demand (KVA) = Peak Operating Load (kW)/ Power Factor (P.F)

Why is Maximum Demand Important?

• Billing: Many electricity companies charge based on the maximum demand (kVA), not just energy consumption (kWh).
• Transformer Sizing: Knowing the maximum demand helps you select the right transformer rating.
• Protection Settings: Ensures that the settings on the protection devices are consistent with actual demand.
• Avoiding Penalties: Exceeding the sanctioned demand may result in penalty charges.

Solved Example

A textile factory’s peak operational load is 850 kW, with a power factor of 0.88. Calculate the maximum demand (kVA).

Given

Peak Operating Load – 850 kW

Power Factor – 0.88

Formula

Maximum Demand (kVA) = Peak Operating Load (kW)/ Power Factor (P.F)

Solution

Maximum Demand (kVA) = 850/ 0.88

Maximum Demand (kVA) = 965.91 kVA

Answer

The maximum demand of the textile factory is 965.91 kVA.

What is the Maximum Demand at 11kV?

In general, the maximum demand for an 11kV supply connection in India is limited to 3000kVA. 

This limit is applicable to a single connection on an 11kV feeder. 

If a higher demand is needed, the user must obtain power at a higher voltage, such as 33kV (or) 66kV. 

Certain states may have slightly differing regulations.

Summary

The Maximum Demand Calculator is a valuable resource for engineers and energy managers. 

Understanding and regulating your maximum demand allows you to manage energy usage, prevent penalties, and assure your electrical system runs effectively.