Verdict?

We don't need no steenkin' verdict. [Linked Image]

I think that the best that we can do is cover the possible different assumptions, and play with different calculation techniques.

I was describing using vector addition of the various currents, but that requires making assumptions about the power factors of the loads.

As JBD notes, a rough and ready estimate simply using addition and ignoring phase angles will give us a number that falls right into the range of possible values that you get with the "more accurate" vector calculations as you change the power factor assumptions. IMHO a very useful reminder that sometimes you don't really care if 86 angels or 94 angels can dance on a particular pin, and "about 90" is the correct answer to use [Linked Image]

-Jon