The Energy Loss Calculator helps you measure the energy that a system fails to convert into useful output. It allows you to understand the difference between input and output energy, highlighting inefficiencies in mechanical, electrical, or thermal systems. This is essential for evaluating performance, improving system design, and saving costs.
You can use this tool to calculate energy loss in mechanical machines, electrical circuits, and thermal systems. It is especially helpful for engineers, technicians, and energy auditors who need precise energy tracking in operations or product design.
Formula
1. General Energy Loss Formula:
Energy Loss = Input Energy − Useful Output Energy
Where:
- Input Energy is the total energy supplied to a system
- Useful Output Energy is the energy successfully converted into the desired form
2. Energy Loss as a Percentage:
Energy Loss (%) = [(Input Energy − Useful Output Energy) / Input Energy] × 100
3. Electrical Energy Loss in Conductors:
Energy Loss = I² × R × t
Where:
- I is current in amperes
- R is resistance in ohms
- t is time in seconds
- Result is in joules (J)
4. Mechanical System (due to friction):
Energy Loss = Friction Force × Distance
Where:
- Friction Force is in newtons
- Distance is in meters
- Result is in joules (J)
Common Reference Table
Scenario | Input Energy (J) | Useful Output Energy (J) | Energy Loss (J) | Energy Loss (%) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Electric heater efficiency test | 5000 | 4200 | 800 | 16.00% |
Motor running with friction | 3000 | 2700 | 300 | 10.00% |
LED bulb circuit loss | 100 | 85 | 15 | 15.00% |
This table provides quick reference values for understanding energy losses across common systems without manual calculation.
Example
Suppose you supply 2000 joules of energy to a motor, and it delivers 1500 joules of useful mechanical output. Then:
Energy Loss = 2000 − 1500 = 500 J
Energy Loss (%) = (500 / 2000) × 100 = 25%
The motor loses 500 joules of energy in the form of heat and vibration, and its energy loss percentage is 25%.
Most Common FAQs
You should use joules for energy, seconds for time, ohms for resistance, amperes for current, and newtons for force.
Yes, by identifying where energy is lost, you can improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary energy consumption.
No. Energy can be lost as sound, vibration, or radiation depending on the system