Single Phase to Three Phase Converter

Variable frequency drives can be used as a single phase to three phase converter for AC electric motors. Most variable frequency drive manufacturers design products up to 3 horsepower to convert single phase to three phase. Precision Electric offers solutions for customers looking to convert single phase to three phase electric motors that exceed 3 horsepower. Precision Electric also offers variable frequency drives to convert 120 volt single phase to 220 volt three phase for AC electric motor applications through the 1.5 horsepower range.

De-rating for 1 Phase Supply

For AC electric motor applications that exceed 3 horsepower, some variable frequency drives can be de-rated for single phase power supply. Lenze Americas is a variable frequency drive manufacturer in the United States that offers drive products above 3 horsepower that can be de-rated for single phase power supply. Lenze uses a simple formula to de-rate a three phase drive for single phase power supply. The formula Lenze Americas uses to determine the size drive they manufacture and apply on such applications, is as follows:

  1. Single Phase to Three Phase ConverterCheck the AC electric motor nameplate full load current (amps) and multiply it by 1.73.
  2. Choose a three phase Lenze drive that is good for the new current rating.
  3. Upon installation, wire the single phase supply to the input of terminals 1 and 2 on the Lenze converter.
  4. Leave 3rd terminal on the input of the converter open.
  5. Install the 3 electric motor leads on the output of the Lenze converter.

Never wire or install a variable frequency drive without proper training. Call a qualified electrician to install and wire a variable frequency drive for industrial AC electric motors. Call or email Precision Electric today for technical support or to correctly size a variable frequency drive for a single phase to 3 phase converter.