Question: What is the difference between a phase converter and a “Variable Frequency Drive” Why would I choose one over the other?
Let’s first look at what defines each product…
According to Wikipedia: “three-phase induction motors may operate adequately on an unbalanced supply if not heavily loaded. This allows various imperfect techniques to be used. A single-phase motor can drive a three-phase generator, which will produce a high-quality three-phase source but with high cost for apparatus.”
Learn more about our selection of American Rotary Phase Converters here!
Generally phase converters are divided into three popular methods of control:
- Static conversion techniques in which the motor is run at less than full efficiency mainly on two of the legs of the three-phase motor. Current is sometimes injected into the third leg with a capacitor or transformer arrangements that provide imperfect phase shift. In these systems the motor must be de-rated.
- Rotary phase converters constructed from a three-phase electric motor or generator “idler”. These normally require some kind of starting aid and capacitors to improve phase balance and power factor. This is a two-motor solution. One motor is not connected to a load and produces the three-phase power, the second motor driving the load runs on the power produced.
- A digital phase converter uses a rectifier and inverter to create a single voltage with power electronics, which is added to the two legs of the single-phase source to create three-phase power. Unlike a VFD, it cannot vary the frequency and motor speed. Since phase converters generate one leg that must match the voltage and frequency of the single-phase supply, it does have the advantage of a sine-wave output voltage and excellent voltage balance between the phases.
Benefits of using a Phase Converter
- Installation Simplicity (less wiring)
- Phase converters are the “Plug and Play” option for simple phase conversion
- Operating both Resistive & Inductive Loads
- Only generates three phase power
- Best option for a general type power conversion based on HP or AMP requirements
- Can be used for multiple machines to run at the same time.
Let’s now define “VFD” or “Variable Frequency Controller”, also sometimes termed “inverter”, “Freq. Drive”, etc…
This is where terms can be crossed. Also known adjustable-frequency drive, variable-speed drive, AC drive, or micro drive, a VFD is a type of adjustable-speed drive used in electro-mechanical drive systems to control AC motor speed and torque by varying motor input frequency and voltage
The VFD “Speed” controller is a solid state power electronics conversion system consisting of three distinct sub-systems: a rectifier bridge converter, a direct current (DC) link, and an inverter. Voltage Source inverter (VSI) drives are by far the most common type of drives. Most drives are AC-AC drives in that they convert AC line input to AC inverter output. There are other types, but this is the most common.
As you can see the line power is wired directly to the VFD and then the VFD is directly connected to the motor, they are not connected to switches or any front end starters or other devices. The control now takes place either through an operator interface or through “external signal” controls, like separate push buttons and switches to activate certain tasks, like “Start”, “Stop”, “Forward/Reverse” , and an external “potentiometer” to adjust speed.
Types of Drives
Sensorless Vector
(SLV)
Control method in which the stat or currents of a three-phase AC electric motor are identified as two orthogonal components that can be visualized with a vector. One component defines the magnetic flux of the motor and the other the torque, controlled without and external sensor, utilizing an algorithm.
Voltz per Hertz
(V/HZ; V/F)
In variable-torque applications suited for Volts-per-Hertz (V/Hz) drive control, AC motor characteristics require that the voltage magnitude of the inverter’s output to the motor be adjusted to match the required load torque in a linear, V/Hz relationship. For example, for 460 V, 60 Hz motors, this linear V/Hz relationship is 460/60 = 7.67 V/Hz. While suitable in wide-ranging applications, V/Hz control is sub-optimal in high-performance applications involving low speed or demanding, dynamic speed regulation, positioning, and reversing load requirements. Some V/Hz control drives can also operate in quadratic V/Hz mode or can even be programmed to suit special multi-point V/Hz paths
Vector Drive
(Closed Loop w/encoder feedback)
Similar to the Sensorless Vector, but provides even more accuracy due to utilization of an encoder providing the signal feedback, resulting in an improved percentage of speed regulation, improved speed range at constant torque, and improved minimum speed at 100% torque at % of base speed.
VFD Control Performance
AC drives are used to bring about process and quality improvements in industrial and commercial applications’ acceleration, flow, monitoring, pressure, speed, temperature, tension, and torque.This ease of control makes more complicated applications such as vertical mill, drill press, lathe, even a saw or air compressor the perfect fit for our selection of VFDs.
Fixed-speed loads subject the motor to a high starting torque and to current surges that are up to eight times the full-load current. AC drives instead gradually ramp the motor up to operating speed to lessen mechanical and electrical stress, reducing maintenance and repair costs, and extending the life of the motor and the driven equipment.
Variable-speed drives can also run a motor in specialized patterns to further minimize mechanical and electrical stress. Most VFD manufacturers produce drives that are 115V input capable up to 1 or 1.5HP rated and 208-240V 1 phase input capable up to 3 HP factory rated. If higher horsepower is needed, a VFD can be de-rated (oversized) to allow single phase input and still provide the horsepower rating. This will require your motor FLA rating and sometimes the S.F. (service factor) of the motor depending on the application.
Installation Parameters
What’s involved in the installation of these devices? In situations like lathes, drill presses and vertical mills, the idea is to wire your power from your breaker box to the outlet or hardwire from the breaker box (utilizing ) the proper breaker size.
Then, you go ahead and wire the VFD for the incoming power line and also directly from the VFD to the motor on the machine. What this means is removing the current motor starters from the circuit. Any and all machine installed switches that are on the equipment will need to be rewired to the terminal boards on the VFD for separate external signal control. They cannot be left on the machine as is and be expected to work.
Benefits of using a VFD
- Motor Speed Controller
- Phase conversion by-product
- Precision Frequency Control
- Soft Starting motors
- Energy Savings
- HVAC, Pumps, CNC, Wood Working, Conveyors, Mixers, Hoists, Cranes, Elevators for performance improvement.
- Building Automation Systems
When to use Phase Converter or use a VFD
So what about the difference in products? If you are trying just to connect a machine up for plug and play operation with minimal performance gain in a single phase to three phase conversion. Well your best solution for the above example is a “Phase Converter” since this is a general type power conversion based on HP or AMP requirements. This is best for refrigeration equipment, portable equipment on trailers, freezer’s etc. or when the machine has numerous low voltage controls and internally for the machines control panel.
VFD’S are very well suited , if you have a pump, vertical mill, drill press, lathe, even a saw or air compressor where not only phase conversion is desired, but the desire to control speed of that motor for fine tuning your application, then a VFD is your desired controller. Most VFD manufacturers produce drives that are 115V input capable up to 1 or 1.5HP rated, 208-240V 1 phase input capable up to 3 HP factory rated. If higher horsepower is needed a VFD can be de-rated (oversized) to allow single phase input and still provide the horsepower rating. This will require your motor FLA rating and sometimes the S.F. (service factor) of the motor depending on the application.
Learn more about sizing single phase VFD’s here!
What’s involved in the installation of these devices? In situations like Lathes, Drill Press, Vertical Mills Machines, the idea is to wire your power from your breaker box to the outlet or hardwire from the breaker box (utilizing ) the proper breaker size. Then wire to the VFD for the incoming power line, then wire directly from the VFD to the motor on the machine. What this means is removing the current motor starters from the circuit. Any and all machine installed switches that are on the equipment will need to be rewired to the terminal boards on the VFD for separate external signal control, they can’t be left on the machine as is and be expected to work.
This is just a quick summary of what is involved when switching out a motor starter for a VFD to control a motor on one of these machines and the differences on when you would want to use one vs using a phase converter. There is a place for these devices.
Have more questions about incorporating a VFD or another form of motor control? Our tech support agents are here to help! Give us a call at (847) 658-8130 or email us at [email protected] and we’d be happy to help!
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What are my options to power a 230v 40a 3 phase thank you
Hi there Carl,
I sent along your request to our tech support guys, here’s what they had to say:
This answer is dependent upon a few answers based on application:
1) If you application is RESISTIVE in nature then you would want ADX30
a. Link to review and Order
2) If your application is INDUCTIVE it could be AD30 or ADX30 dependent upon type of load (equipment dependent)
a. Link to review and order:
i. American Rotary – ADX30
ii. American Rotary – AD30
I have a 3PH 5HP air compressor but only have single phase 240V available. I believe the motor was running on 480V but can be reconfigured for 240V. What would be my best choice for converting single phase to 3 phase to run my compressor?
Hi there Mike,
Unfortunately none of our vendors produce a product that has the capability of accepting 208-240VAC input and providing three-phase 460VAC output power to the motor.
The only option in this case would be to use a three-phase / 208-240VAC input & output AC drive and properly size it to accept single phase input power.
Our technical support team suggested reviewing 10hp AC drives based on your application requirements.
Example: Fuji Electric item number FRN0033C2S-2U.
Hi. For feed a heat pump out site 30 amp max circuit brakr 60 hz can I used a VFD?
Hi Juan,
The maximum typical VFD would be between 2-3 HP rating at nominal 230VAC 1 phase input or 1HP maximum with 120VAC 1 phase input, but the motor to be controlled MUST be a 3 phase motor.
I have a water generator
230V/ 3Phase
Power: 6KW at peak
1.5 operational
I only have 1 Phase service
I know that at its peak this compresor uses 5.5KW
and a small fan that uses .4 KW
6KW is less that 30A
Do I need a phase converter and what type. I do not want to spend too much money. Your advice!
Thank you very much
Hi Dion!
I spoke with our tech department and here is their response and recommendations:
The phase converter is good for over 25 amps. Since you are in a bit of a gray area we would recommend one of these two options (a VFD or phase converter):
An Invertek drive
or
American Rotary phase converter
Thank you!
I’m in the process of looking/buying a vertical knee mill to use on single phase (residential) power. Depending on series and type they range from 1, 1.5 and 2 hp 240 – 460 3 phase.
Two questions.
1. I heard you can go 110v single phase to 220 3 phase but don’t you lose something? The ability to put a heavy load on the motor without stalling?
2. If so. 220 single phase input to 220 3 phase makes more sense? Due to the more available amps?
Thanks
Hi there Tim,
Here’s what our tech guys had to say in regards to your questions:
1. I heard you can go 110v single phase to 220 3 phase but don’t you lose something? The ability to put a heavy load on the motor without stalling? “In referring to VFD, you don’t lose when the item is factory rated for a 110VAC input, but you will be limited on HP availability to either 1HP or 1.5 HP models dependent upon the manufacturer. In referring to RPC (rotary phase converters) you would first have to have a step up transformer to provide a 220VAC single phase power then you could use a RPC model AD 05 which could then support up to but not beyond a total of 2.5HP motor loads.”
2. If so. 220 single phase input to 220 3 phase makes more sense? Due to the more available amps? “Yes,220VAC single phase is more practical when referring to both VFD or RPC, in the case of VFD, you then are only limited by factory pre-engineered models up to 3HP.”
Hope this helps and always feel free to reach out directly to our tech support at: [email protected]
hi,
I only have 240 volt single phase power and I have a 3 phase 4 kw mincer.
is a rotary phase converter my only option as all electricians have told me a vfd will not work for me.
thanks
ross
Hi there Ross,
We actually have a couple options available depending on your application requirements. Here’s what our tech guys had for a suggestion:
“I would say for sure that an ADX-15 will work for that 3-phase 4kW mincer (As long as the mincer motor is also 240V. A transformer will also be needed if it requires 480V): https://www.wolfautomation.com/digital-rotary-phase-converter-15hp-240v-power-1/.
However, a VFD could potentially work, but we would need to know more about your mincer power requirements. One potential solution would be to “single-phase” a 3-phase drive by “de-Rating.” In that case I might suggest a Fuji 15HP VFD for the task: https://www.wolfautomation.com/frn015g1s-2u-vfd-15hp-230v-3-phase/”
Hope these suggestions help but feel free to contact our tech support directly at: [email protected] for any additional assistance you may need.
I need to run a 7.5 hp table saw that is 3 phase on single phase 220. 3 options are replace motor and switch for $880.00 or a Vfd for $1153.00 or phase converter. Price unknown. Best option please?
Thank you for your question George,
For the application you’re describing, there are two options you may want to consider. Either the Fuji Electric item number FRN0047C2S-2U or Fuji Electric item number FRN0056E2S-2GB.
Below are links to some single phase rating PDFs for both series of VFDs.
Fuji Electric Frenic Mini C2 Single Phase Ratings Application Note
Frenic-Ace Single Phase Ratings
Both VFD options can accept single phase / 230V input power and provide three phase / 230V output output power directly to the motor only.
If you would like additional assistance in selecting an option, please feel free to contact our technical support team at: [email protected]
Best of luck on your application!
Greetings,
I would like to power a 3 phase 480VAC / 3000VA 6 axis Industrial Robot Arm from a single phase 230VAC 30A generator with step-up transformer. Would an RPC be more appropriate or could I get away with using a VFD. A VFD would be more practical in the space we have planned, but I do worry about the variable loads the robot would be too much for a VFD..
I recently had a friend give me an HVAC unit from a church that was being torn down. After hooking the unit up we discovered that the compressor is three phase but all the controls are single phase. What is my bes toption to still utilize this unit with 220VAC single phase power available?
Hi there Jason,
Thank you for contacting Marshall Wolf Automation (MWA) for your phase conversion needs. Unfortunately there is not enough information provided for our tech support to completely answer your question. At MWA we have access to two very different devices that can accept single phase voltage and produce 3-phase voltage; an RPC (rotary phase converter) and a VFD (variable frequency drive).
A RPC is more of a 3-phase, AC voltage, generator and will be the easiest to wire up, but this will require that the input terminals of the HVAC unit are set up to accept 3-phase voltage and that the internal circuitry is designed to tap off of the 3-phase to get the single phase voltage needed for the controls of the unit.
A VFD is a 3-phase, induction motor, speed controller. It can accept single phase, AC voltage, and will produce 3-phase PWM or pulse width modulation. It does not supply AC voltage and therefore needs to be wired directly to the motor. This will require that all wires currently connected to the motor to be removed and the output of the VFD wired directly to the motor. Any of the controls within the machine that are connected to the motor will need to be wired to the external control terminals of the VFD, the VFD programmed to accept them and then it will be able to supply 3-phase voltage to the motor only as well as control the speed of this motor. Using a VFD will require significantly more time to re-wire the machine and full understanding of the circuitry and operation of the HVAC unit.
To recommend either a RPC or VFD, we will need to have the following information:
• Size ( in amps) of the supply circuit that is supplying the single phase voltage
• Rated current of the HVAC unit in amps
• Rated HP of the motor connected to the compressor
• Rated current of the motor connected to the compressor
For additional assistance, please feel free to contact our tech support directly at: [email protected]. Thank you again for reaching out and good luck!
Will a VFD allow you reverse rotation on the fly when running a tap in and out like a traditional converter will?
Hi there Clayton,
Yes a VFD will allow reverse rotation, but not exactly like you might think when you state on the fly. What will occur, is that a VFD once the reversing action is engaged will then decelerate the motor, by the current selected “Stop Method” parameter setting of deceleration, and “deceleration time” parameter that is programmed. Once this returns the motor to “0” frequency then the motor will accelerate in the opposite direction back to the current frequency setting.
I just bought a 5hp 3ph metal lathe. I have an outlet 240v 2ph. I have two grinder attachments one is 3ph 120v and the other single pase 120 volts. They both have a fractional hp motor I prefer to use the 3 ph grinder. What size VFD do I need and what modifications lf any do I need to make? Am I better off using a 5 hp VFD and just use the single ph grinder?
what i have now is 2 hp Bridgeport mill and a 3 hp lathe both 220 3 phase and i only run one machine at one time and i have both machines wire into a single vfd ? i see that you must remove the normal switches from machines that make me think that to start of the machine must be completed at the VFD am i correct?
Hi there Mike,
Here’s what our tech support has to say in regards to your question,
“The answer is, yes, it can be done. You’d have to run 1 VFD to two motor to run at different times. Yes, the drive will need to be reset up every time it is used on the smaller motor to reset the thermal overload. Then the switches on each machine can’t be used, plus any existing motor starters must be removed. In the long run a separate VFD for each machine is the best solution.”
Hopefully this helps but if you have additional questions, feel free to reach out to our tech support directly at: [email protected]
Looking for cheapest option to convert 1 phase supply to run a three phase planer. It has a 7.5 hp motor /230 vac/ 1725 rpm for the cutter head.
It will be the only piece I need to run on three phase. Any help would be appreciated.
Hi there Mark,
We’ve got two options available that are relatively price efficient; however, that means that they both come with their own set of specific challenges.
The first option is the Fuji Frenic-Mini. Though this drive is handy in a pinch, it does have limitations. Your motor must NOT draw more than 22 amps @ 230VAC. which means you will need to disassemble your equipment for the retrofit. Also, the circuit breaker MUST BE 100AMP size.
Your other options is a rotary phase converter. Our tech support pointed out to size your 1 phase circuit protection take FLA of the motor x 250%. This is the easier install, no disassembly of your equipment.
There will be pros and cons to each option depending on your application. If you would like further assistance in figuring out what would work best in your application, feel free to contact our tech support directly at: [email protected]
Hi Morgan
I have two machines l would like to run off single phase power.
15hp 3ph 550 iron worker
10 hp 3ph 550 engine lathe
I will only run one piece of equipment at a time
Thanks for your solution
Doug
Hi there Doug,
From the specs you gave us it looks like your best bet will be the American Rotary ADX30. If you have additional questions in regards to this application, feel free to contact our technical service directly at: [email protected].
What is the ambient temperature range on a vfd. I have an unheated garage and live in an area where the temps can range from 10 bellow o ferinhight to 105 ferinhight. Will a vfd survive under those conditions?
Hi Taylor,
Generally there is a difference between Transport, storage and operational temperatures. What’s shown below is a “typical break down” but not all drives are rated to 55deg C most are rated to 40 deg. C. This converts to 14 Deg. F to 104 Deg. F for operating conditions.
VFD Temperature Break-Down Example
Hi, I’m looking to run a 1.5hp 3 phase jointer off of single phase, what are my VFD options? Thanks
Good afternoon,
Here is a link to our 1.5 hp, single phase input drives. You can choose the rest of your specs on the left of the page. Thank you!
I bought an air compressor with a 7.5 HP 3 ph 460 volt motor which I want to run off 220 single is a vfd a good way or is a rfc a better way.
Hi there Doug:
Thanks so much for your question, I forwarded it along to our tech support and here’s what they had to say:
With respect to your request to run a 7.5Hp, 460Vac motor off of 220Vac, single phase voltage, the first question is, is the motor dual voltage rated? Many motors are dual rated for 208-240Vac/460Vac. If your motor is, the best approach is to rearrange the motor wires for the 220Vac, 3-phase input. This way you can use either a rotary phase converter (RPC) or a variable frequency drive (VFD) to run the motor off of 220Vac single phase voltage. If the motor is only wound for 460 Vac, 3-phase voltage, then this process just became more expensive.
If we proceed with the layout as stated, then we will need to have a RPC, a 3-phase disconnect switch and a 3-phase step up transformer. Since no details were given about the motor, I will assume it is a compressor duty, 4-pole, 1800RPM, 7.5 Hp motor having a FLA around 10 amps at 460Vac. Working back from the motor to the circuit breaker box, we will now need a 3-phase 230Vac to 460 Vac step up transformer that will cost around $1100.00. Then a 3-phase disconnect switch for 25 amps for around $60.00 and then an RPC rated for 20Hp for around $1979.00 for a total cost of $3,139.00.
If the motor can be re-wired for the 208-240 Vac, 3-phase, then all that will be needed is either a RPC or a VFD. The RPC for a 7.5Hp, 220Vac, 3-phase compressor motor is the American Rotary ADX15
The RPC will be the easiest product to wire in. Just connect the input to the circuit breaker box and then the 3-phases and the ground to the input voltage terminals of the compressor and run the compressor as it was originally designed.
If you would like to have speed control on the compressor motor, then using a VFD can be an option. The VFD we suggest for those specific parameters is the Teco A510-2015-C3-U.
The difference is that the output of the VFD MUST be wired directly to the motor. This means that all wires currently connected to the motor MUST be removed and the output of the VFD is wired directly to the motor windings. All controls, including and pressure switches that turn the motor on and off will need to be wired back to the VFD and then the VFD programmed to activate them. Using a VFD typically requires less money out of pocket, but will require significantly more re-wiring of the machine to make it work.
Good luck! If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact our tech support directly at: [email protected]
hello, I’m trying to run a 3 phase motor-208V/440V, 8.8A/4.0A,1720 RPM, 4P (I believe that is horse power)- on a single phase 208V power supply. The application is a car lift for a residential garage, the lift was purchased from a commercial car garage that had 3 phase power. If necessary I can send an image of the data plate. Do you have any advice of as to which VFD (if any) can run this 3 phase motor and still maintain the torque to lift an automobile? Alternatively can you advise for a single phase that can do this work? Thank you in advance for the support.
Happy New Year Joshua,
Thank you for your comment, we forwarded it along to our tech support team and here’s what they had to say:
“In the description provided for the motor (208V/440V, 8.8A/4.0A,1720 RPM, 4P) the 4P means the motor is a 4-pole motor meaning it is theoretically and 1800 RPM motor. When you take into consideration slip and friction in the design, the motor is actually rated at 1720 RPM. The Hp for the motor is not given, but the current for the motor at 208 Vac is given at 8.8 amps. This puts the motor in the 3Hp range. There are many VFDs on our web site rated for a 3Hp motor that can accept single phase voltage, but a VFD is not a phase converter.
A VFD is a 3-phase induction motor speed controller. This means that the output of the VFD MUST be wired directly to the motor. Since the output of a VFD is not AC voltage. The output of the VFD is PWM (pulse width modulation) which is actually a form of DC voltage. All wires currently connected to the motor MUST be removed including all controls, switches and most other devices. Typically, the only things between the output of the VFD and the motor are the 4 wires that connect them. This will require potentially re-wiring the entire unit to function properly and to have all controls wired to the control terminals of the VFD and the VFD programmed to receive them.
The easier unit to use would be a Rotary Phase Converter or RPC. A RPC will produce 3-phase, AC voltage and can be used more like a 3-phase generator. The output of the RPC can be wired directly to the input terminals of the lift and it can be used exactly as it was designed. Here are options for both a VFD and a RPC for this application.
AC Tech – ESV222N02YXB
&
American Rotary – AD10”
Good luck with your application and please feel free to contact our technical support directly at: [email protected] for any additional questions.
I have a 2HP Bridgport Mill. What is my best option for a VFD. I have 240v 1 phase available.
I’d like easy setup and lowest cost. (doesn’t everyone? )
Hello Mike,
Thank you for contacting Marshall Wolf Automation regarding a recommendation. As you are most likely aware, “best for my application” and “Lowest Cost Option” are not always congruent. We can suggest the easiest to use, most feature laced and very popular for mill options, then we can recommend alternatives. We always recommend verifying your Amp rating on your motor plate against the output amperage of the selected drive to ensure the drive outputs more current than your motor demands at peak, not doing so ensures intermittent reliability.
1st Choice: – Easy to use, set up operate and has integrated forward/reverse push button: AC Tech – ESV152N02YXB
2nd Choice – Performance and Good Value: Fuji Electric – FRN0010C2S-7U
3rd Choice – Good Performance and Great Value: LSIS – LSLV0015C100-1N
Good luck with your application and feel free to contact our technical support team directly if you run into any additional questions!
My residential service is 120/240 volt single phase. I need to run 3 machines at 240 volt 3 phase.
1. CNC machine is rated 220 volt 3 phase 25 amp.
2. Vacuum pump is rated 220 volt 3 phase 10HP approx. ( 28 FLA )
3. Dust collector is rated 220 volt 3 phase 3 HP approx. (9.6 FLA )
Would like to run RPC to 3 phase panel and then to each machine
Your suggestions as to whether ADX30 is appropriate for this application
Hi there Mike,
Thanks so much for contacting us for your phase conversion needs. According to our tech support they would need a little more information before determining which converter would be best. If all of your loads will be starting at the same time then we suggest the American Rotary ADX50 Phase Converter.
If not, then the unit can be sized based on the largest starting load but will account for the staggered starts. For this we suggest the American Rotary ADX30 Phase Converter.
Hopefully this helps and feel free to contact our tech support team directly for any further assistance.
Good luck with your application!
Morgan
Thanks for the prompt reply. My service is limited at this time 100 amps. I am in the planning stage to upgrade to 225 service.
My intent is to start the units one at a time to avoid the inrush of all three simultaneously. I am hoping to be able to get going temporarily with all the other loads on my panel shut down while using the CNC, vacuum, and dust collector. It takes 3 months here in San Diego to get approval for a service upgrade.
Looking to see if any will work on my table saw 220 3hp and 3 phase 8 Amp with my 220 single phase.
Hi there Alberto,
Our technical support team suggested either the Fuji Electric FRN0012C2S-7U or the Invertek ODE-3-220105-1F42 as VFDs that would work with your table saw. They also wanted to note that the enclosure is not sealed so you will need to mount the product inside a cabinet for protection or in a location away from the saw to avoid potential damage to the VFD.
Thank you for your question and feel free to reach out to our tech support team directly at [email protected] for further assistance. Best of luck on your application!
I just built a new shop and have 110 single and 220 single phase power. 4 of the machines I brought with me are 3 ph., a lathe (3hp), mill (2hp), 20″ sander(2hp) and a couple small hp machines. I would to rune these in the new shop. What is the best converter technique to use. Thank you, Kenny
Hi there Ken,
A rotary phase would be easiest to set up to power all the pieces of equipment you must use your 220V/ 1Ph to supply power to the Rotary Phase converter. If your goal is to control the speed of the motor of each individual machine then a VFD is the best solution, but will require more work for integration into each individual machine as they require a separate VFD for each machine.
I have a 380V , 50Hz, 5.1 Kw stove that I want to run on 220V. What are my options?
Hi there,
The only method of solution for a resistive load oven is to use3 different components working together.
• Rotary Phase Converter to change power from 220VAC 1 phase to 220VAC 3 phase – NOTE: This we can size and provide
• Step up transformer that will take the 220VAC 3 phase and elevate to 380VAC 3 phase – NOTE: this we can size and provide
• A specific Frequency Converter (NOT A VFD) to change the 380VAC 60HZ to 380VAC@ 50HZ – NOTE: This product we are not selling at the moment.
If you would like additional assistance, feel free to contact our tech support team directly at: [email protected].
Hi. Thanks for the very informative article. I just bought a small lathe with a 3/4 HP 3-phase motor. The FLA of the motor is 2.8 amps at 230V. I want to power it from my residential 220V single phase. What would be a good VFD to use?
Hi there David,
Keeping the solution for the easiest to set up and use when bypassing the existing starters and wiring in a VFD for operation control, good selection would be:
• ESV751N02YXB
• ODE-3-120043-1F12 Note: typically requires installation into an Electrical box for protection
• WJ200-007SF Note: Best to add optional NEMA 1 kit number: see accessories
• L510-201-H1-U
• FRN0006C2S-7U
Great, thank you, Morgan.
What would be best for a 36 v battery charger set up for 3 phase if I only have regular residential service?
Hi there Chris,
Unfortunately we do not seem to have any resources for battery systems regarding VFDs or any other phase conversion processes. Good luck with your application, your best bet may be to contact the manufacturer of the battery charger directly.
want to run a 3 phase 7.5hp submersible pump.but have a single phase at my farm .and that too having low voltage problem.
please help me out .
Hello Maaz,
The best solution is to use a RPC a submersible 7.5HP pump usually acts like a 10HP motor based on normal amp required to run the 7.5HP and if you have voltage problems a VFD is not a good solution. So, if you have a pump house you can use the ADX20 series to do the job and if you do not have a pump house but the item will be in the elements you can use the AI-20-PAD as two different recommendations
Hi there, I want to set up a small wood working shop in my home garage, I will need to run a planer and a dust collector on 3 phase 220 power. the planner has the biggest load rated at 7.5 horse power, 3525 rpm, and 19amps. the dust collection system has a motor requiring 3 phase 220 as its a 6 amp, 2 horse power motor. I may also need to run a jointer off of it. I will never need to run the jointer and planer at the same time but the dust collection and planer will need to run together. what is the most cost effective option?
Hi Josh,
According to our technical support team, the most cost effective option would be to use the ADX or AUL series of rotary phase converter, sized of the largest or the largest combined loads.
Additionally, the ADX20 or AUL20 are typically offered as the models that run the Dust Collector and Planner at the same time.
To better narrow down the product we would need full details of each machine along with what machines must run at the same time. If you’d like further assistance in finding the exact part based on your specs, feel free to reach out to our tech support team directly at: [email protected] and they’d be happy to help!
Best of luck with your wood working shop!
Hello, I need to convert my 1/2 HP M-Head Bridgeport with a 3 phase motor, to my 220 vac single phase power in my shop. I like the advantages of the VFD, which model do you recomend?
Hi Skip,
Thank you for your inquiry. Based on your specifications, our technical support team suggested the FRN0004C2S-7U would be a good starting point.
This AC drive will accept single phase/208-240V and will provide three phase/208-240V power to the motor.
Please make sure the full load amperage requirement of the motor is less than 3.1 amps.
If you have any additional questions, please feel free to reach out to our tech support team directly at: [email protected]
Best of luck with your application!
I have an old South Bend lathe with a 1.5 HP 3 phase motor and only have single phase 230v.
What are my best options?
thanks
ed
Hi Ed,
Since we don’t know the full load amperage rating of the motor, a good starting point to consider is the Fuji Electric FRN0010C2S-7U.
This AC drive is rated at 2hp. It is for indoor use only and is not a “sealed” unit. This VFD can only accept single phase / 208-240VAC for input power supply and only provides three phase / 208V-240VAC output power.
If you’d like additional information please feel free to reach out to our tech support team directly at: [email protected]
Best of luck with your application!
Very informative video, Thank you!
My current challenge for upgrading elec. service in my warehouse is — I manufacture dry mortar products and am purchasing a 30 cu.ft Paddle Blender that requires 480v 3-phase, however my current facility does not offer 3-phase power and I am looking at the high expense of bringing it in from the street with the power co. I’m leasing the warehouse and reluctant to invest + $30k in a space I don’t own. My electrician pal told me about Add-a-phase for the new acquired blender as I need to be able to run it at variable speeds from slow startup times to high speed.
Current specs on blender motor are:
15 HP, 3 Ph, 60 cycles, 230-460 volt motor (set on 440 volts), VFD. I may be upgrading the motor to 25 hp-30 hp.
I appreciate it if you could offer some advice – even better if you have a solution that I could consider buying.
Thank you!
Brian
Hi there Brian,
Here’s the advice from our tech support guys:
“The option we can offer is a rotary phase converter.
Here’s a link to a sizing chart for you to review: Sizing Guide for AR, AD, ADX Series Phase Converters
It is important to know the entire amperage demand of the machine before selecting a rotary phase converter.
Size the RPC for the motor/machine amperage demand for the intended upgrade mentioned in the explanation (25-30hp).
When you order the RPC, you’ll have to specify they are working with 460V as this is an added to the cost of the unit.
The standard voltage these units work with is 230VAC.”
Hopefully this helps and please feel free to contact our tech support team directly at: [email protected] for any further assistance.
Best of luck on your application!
I am moving my cabinet shop from its current location with 3 phase power to a location without. Power at the new location is 120/240 1 phase with a 400 amp service. I have multiple tools needing to run simultaneously on 3phase power with the largest load being a Sander (main motor 20hp/56A with 2 smaller motors). Secondary loads are Dust collector (20hp/54A) and Compressor (10hp/28A). I have been looking at RPCs for this need. Other tools with smaller loads could be turned on concurrently. Would a 200A Single Phase 120/240 service feeding a AI 75 Phase Converter work for my needs?
Hi Dennis,
The rotary phase converters can accept single phase / 208-240V for input power (120VAC is not an option).
According to our tech support, your best bet is an American Rotary ADX75 with an incoming service of 200 amps at 208-240VAC.
The ADX75 will provide 104 amps at 240VAC for the starting of a machine.
The maximum total running amps for the ADX75 is 210 amps.
You will not be able to start all the machines at once and will have to bring them online sequentially.
Installation information is shown on the “Documents” tab on the landing page of the ADX75.
If you need a NEMA 3R rain proof enclosure design, then the AI75 is another option.
Hopefully this helps but feel free to contact our tech support team directly at: [email protected] and they’d be happy to assist you further.
I have a 3ph 2hp 5gpm submersible well pump currently running on a Weg VFD. I want to have a simple interface like this one: https://www.nassarelectronics.com/en/product/pump-monitor-trifasico/
To be able to schedule pump to fill cistern with a float switch with long intervals for a poor producing well. Can I use a simple phase converter and do away with the VFD? Or can the pump monitor be used through the VFD?
Hi there Kenny,
This one took a little bit of looking into. Since we’re not familiar with Nassar Electronics, its difficult for our technical support team to confidentially answer your question. From what it looks like, the Nassar product looks to be designed to work independently with a motor starter and not with a VFD. Many of the functions of that particular product are on board a VFD such as phase loss, etc.
If you don’t need motor speed control, then a phase converter (if three phase power is required and only single phase is available) paired with the Nassar product seems to be the simplest way to go. What would likely be your best option would be to either reach out to Nassar directly to speak with one of their engineers or reach out to an engineering group that could assist you in best configuring your application.
Best of luck with everything!
One item missing from your static phase converter vs. a VFD is, do you have to derate the motor if you are running a 3 ph. motor through a VFD with a single phase input?
Thank you
Hi there Paul,
Interesting question you have there. After asking our tech support team, here’s what they had to say:
“If you’re supplying single phase input power to a VFD rated to accept only three phase input power, then yes, to properly size the VFD, de-rating will be necessary.
The de-rating process, however, has nothing to do with the motor itself as you are sizing the VFD for the application.”
If you’d like more information in regards to finding the correct options for your application, please feel free to contact our tech support team directly and they’d be more than happy to assist.
Thank you for the quick response.
For a 3-phase, 10 HP motor (trash compactor that runs once per day), how will a VFD affect the motor and other electrical components if only single phase power is available? I understand that 3-phase power might be better but sometimes there’s only single phase power available.
How can the useful life be affected if I run single phase power to a 3-phase power motor through VFD?
Hi there Juan,
Unfortunately without more information our technical support is limited on what advice they can provide. From what it sounds like, your first step will be to properly size your VFD, which means looking for a 20hp rated VFD to power the 10hp motor. There are additional factors you’ll have to take into consideration which means your best bet would be to contact a local electrician who is familiar with this type of setup to ensure everything is properly setup to your application needs. Best of luck!
I have 3phase 230V service and I want to control three 3phase 460V electric motors (which I already have) attached to 3 large squirrel cage air movers with a VPD-VFD (vapor pressure deficit) controller to regulate humidity and temperature. What would be the appropriate VPD-VFD that would need and would I need a transformer? Is there any equipment that can handle this or do I need to mix and match?
Hi there Tenaya,
Though MWA likely has components that would work for your application, our technical support staff suggested it would be beneficial to consult an engineering firm that is more suited to your project. Without a solid understanding of all of the requirements and stipulations of the project, it would be difficult for our staff to confidently suggest any products. Additionally, we do not offer a motor speed control device with the capability to double the voltage (230V to 460V) and a transformer was suggested as an alternative.
Once you’ve had a chance to work with an engineering firm to solidify a system recommendation, wed be more than happy to provide a quotation for any of the components.
Best of luck with your application and thank you for your question!
I am wanting to run a 3 phase 220v electric vibratory motor on a soil screener with a single phase welder/generator. What would by cheapest option to do this to run a 1HP, 2.16 Amp motor as this will be an item that is used only a few times a year. Thanks
Thank you for your question Nate,
Unfortunately this type of application has a few complications that make a simple answer difficult to provide. Firstly, our technical support was concerned about the generator being used as it may not be compatible with either a phase convertor or VFD. Secondly, AC drives can be quite sensitive to the quality of the incoming voltage being supplied to it along with the environmental conditions.
Due to these factors, our technical support team suggested your best option for properly finding the correct equipment for your application purpose would be to hire a certified electrician who could work directly with you to spec the products out correctly. This would avoid any potential costly equipment damage down the road.
Thank you again for your interest and best of luck with your application!
I have a 3-phase wire feed welder (will run on 208/240/480v) but only have single phase 220v power will a phase converter run this welder
Hi Tom,
Thank you for your question, unfortunately unless we have some additional information there’s not much our tech support can suggest. In order to better assist you, we’d need the following information:
Make and model of your welder, along with any specifications it has
Input phase and voltage
Application details
Environmental factors such as mounting location
While voltage is one aspect of converting the power, there are many other factors that need to be considered before safely running your device. If you’d like to speak with someone directly, our tech support team may be able to assist you further. Feel free to reach out to them at: [email protected]
I was think of using this instead of a phase converter for a customer who needs it for charging his fork lift. He has 240 single phase and needs 240 3phase (21 amps) for the charger. Will this device work or is it more for motors?
Thank you for your question Eric,
For starters, a VFD is specifically designed to work directly with an electric motor and would not be applicable for your project. It’s important to note that VFDs are not to be connected to the machine’s power supply in any case as this can cause serious equipment damage.
However, you would be correct in considering a rotary phase converter as viable option. If you’d like assistance in finding the right Rotary Phase Converter, feel free to contact us directly and one of our staff members would be happy to help!
Hello I’m am researching the best way to power up a couple pieces of vineyard equipment. I only have single phase 240volt available. The hot water pressure washer I want to run is 3 phase 230 volt 40.6 amps. The steamer I want to run is 3 phase 20kw at 480volts. I do have a generator on site that can be rewired for 230 3 phase but I wanted to see if it was doable to run a vfd or a phase converter. Thank you
Thank you for your question Spencer,
Due to the level of specifications for your application, our tech support suggested reaching out directly to better discuss the application. If you email [email protected], they’d be happy to assist you further. Thank you for your interest and best of luck with your project.
Hi Morgan, good morning.
I want to run a 3phase motor, 30HP, 34.9Amps, 1765rpm, 460VAC What is the best option you got?
Hi Isaac! I am going to have someone from our tech department reach out to you, they will have a few questions and then can make a recommendation.