Power Fundamentals
Power factor is the ratio of real power to apparent power. A lower power factor means more current is needed to deliver the same useful kW, which can affect utility charges, transformer loading, conductor sizing, and conversion between kVA and kW.
A capacity market pays resources for being available to meet future reliability needs. It matters to data center users because capacity costs can flow through tariffs or market settlements, and large-load growth can influence regional resource adequacy.
Read definition →Ampere is the unit of current. Amps are useful for rack, branch-circuit, feeder, and switchgear sizing, but the formula changes between DC, single-phase AC, and three-phase AC.
Read definition →Approach temperature is the difference between leaving fluid temperature and the relevant ambient or cooling medium temperature. It helps describe cooling tower, heat exchanger, and chiller performance but needs equipment-specific context.
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