Electrical Fundamentals & Circuit Analysis

Inductor Reactance and Energy Calculator

Calculate inductive reactance, RMS current, stored magnetic energy, time constant, and series or parallel equivalent inductance.

Inductor reactance and energy equations

Inductance determines AC reactance, magnetic energy, and an ideal R-L time constant.

XL = 2πfL
|Z| = √(R²+XL²)
I = V/|Z|
E = ½LI²
τ = L/R

where:

L
Inductance[H]
E
Stored magnetic energy[J]
τ
R-L time constant[s]

Saturation and core loss require real component data.

How to use the Inductor Reactance and Energy Calculator

Calculate inductive reactance, RMS current, stored magnetic energy, time constant, and series or parallel equivalent inductance. Start by choosing the operating mode, then enter values from nameplates, measurements, or project documents in the units shown. The result updates immediately and keeps intermediate quantities visible for review.

  1. Confirm the system and calculation mode.
  2. Enter measured or manufacturer-rated values.
  3. Review the primary result and intermediate metrics.
  4. Continue with the related protection or equipment-selection checks.

Calculation method and validation

The equations and symbol definitions above show the complete calculation basis. Inputs are checked before calculation so zero, negative, incompatible, or physically impossible combinations are flagged instead of silently producing a misleading result.

How to interpret the result

Use the main result as a starting value and read every supporting metric. Ideal uncoupled inductors except entered series resistance Linear inductance at entered current and frequency No core loss, saturation or mutual coupling A passing or recommended result means the entered mathematical conditions are satisfied; it does not certify the complete installation or a particular product combination.

  • Ideal uncoupled inductors except entered series resistance
  • Linear inductance at entered current and frequency
  • No core loss, saturation or mutual coupling

Selection limits and next checks

Preliminary engineering estimate only. Verify the final design against the current applicable standard, local rules, manufacturer data, and project conditions. Verify saturation current, RMS current, temperature rise, insulation, core loss and flyback energy. Compare the output with the current applicable standard, local rules, exact VIOX product datasheet, environmental conditions, protection coordination, and the engineer's project requirements before procurement or installation.

Assumptions

  • Ideal uncoupled inductors except entered series resistance
  • Linear inductance at entered current and frequency
  • No core loss, saturation or mutual coupling

Important Warnings

  • Preliminary engineering estimate only. Verify the final design against the current applicable standard, local rules, manufacturer data, and project conditions.
  • Verify saturation current, RMS current, temperature rise, insulation, core loss and flyback energy.

FAQ

Can this inductor calculation replace a final design?

No. It is a transparent preliminary calculation. Final equipment selection requires the applicable rules, exact product data, and qualified review.