kW and HP are the same idea, different units
kW (kilowatt) and HP (horsepower) both measure motor output. Suppliers and buyers mix them, which is where mistakes happen. Use this rule: 1 kW = 1.34 HP (so 1 HP = 0.746 kW).
Quick kW & HP conversion table
| kW | HP | kW | HP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.75 | 1 | 45 | 60 |
| 1.5 | 2 | 55 | 75 |
| 2.2 | 3 | 75 | 100 |
| 4 | 5.4 | 90 | 120 |
| 5.5 | 7.4 | 110 | 147 |
| 7.5 | 10 | 132 | 177 |
| 11 | 15 | 160 | 214 |
| 15 | 20 | 200 | 268 |
| 22 | 29.5 | 250 | 335 |
| 30 | 40 | 315 | 422 |
| 37 | 50 | 450 | 603 |
| 40 | 54 | 900 | 1206 |
How motors are stepped in power
Motors come in standard steps. A 22 kW motor is common, but so are 30 kW, 37 kW and 45 kW. Choose the next standard rating up from your load so the motor is not overloaded.
Size a motor in three steps
- Get shaft power from the machine (pump = flow × head; fan = air × pressure; conveyor = load × speed).
- Add loss + margin (gear/belt loss plus 10-25% for start and duty).
- Round up to a standard rating, then match speed and voltage (380 / 400 / 660 V or 3 / 6 / 10 kV).
Which series fits which power
| Power (kW) | Recommended series |
|---|---|
| 0.4 - 15 kW | YE3 three-phase |
| 15 - 315 kW (3 / 6 / 10 kV) | Y high-voltage, YKK, YKS |
| DC drives 10 - 500 kW | Z4, Z, ZZJ |
| High-efficiency / variable speed | TYPKK PMSM, YPT |
kW vs HP FAQ
Is a 22 kW motor the same as a 30 HP motor? Roughly - 22 kW is about 29.5 HP, sold as a 30 HP class.
What motor do I need at 900 kW? That is a large industrial rating, normally a 6 / 10 kV high-voltage motor. We supply low- and high-voltage motors up to 5000 kW.