Single Phase Power To Three Phase

Single Phase Power to Three Phase – Solutions For The Electric Motor User

When someoneneeds to runa three phaseelectric motor and only single phase power is available, they look for a solution. There are a couple options to go from single phase power to three phase. This article will discuss options available for going fromsingle phase power to three phase., pros and cons for each option, and,links to our website for products that will go from single phase power to three phase. There are two different methods to go from single phase power to three phase:

  • Variable Frequency Drives (VFD’s)
  • Rotary Phase Converters (RPC’s)

When going from single phase power to three phase, either avariable frequency drive or rotary phase converteris required. Variable frequency drivescome with a number of differentsingle phase input for three phase output options.Variable frequency drives that go from single phase power to three phase are availablein a wide range of voltage and power ratings: From120 Volt single phase input for 240 Volt three phase output, up to 1.5 horsepower; To208-240 Volt single phase input for 240 Volt three phase output, up to 3 horsepower.

Variable frequency drivescan also be derated to run three phase motors above 3 HP from single phase supply. Derating a VFDallows customers with 208-240 volt single phase power the ability to run 240 volt three phase equipment. Derated VFD’s are available up to 20 HP for 208-240 Volt single phase supply. Derating a VFD incorrectly for single phase supply can be easily avoided by contacting an experienced technician before purchasing equipment.

Rotary phase converters (RPCs) will change single phase power to three phase but RPC’s are heavy and use many moving parts. RPC’s are old technology but RPC’s will be around for years to come because some applications that go from single phase power to three phase cannot use a VFD; VFD’s can go from single phase to three phase forelectric motor driven applications; but RPC’s can go from single phase to three phase on applications with and without electric motors.

Single phase motors cannot be used on variable frequency drives. When customers with single phase motors wantto control the speed of their electric motor, the only option available is to replace the single phase motor with an equivalent three phase motor, and then apply a variable frequency drive to that three phase motor.For VFD and RPC repair and replacement quotes, contact Precision Electric.

 

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