buying

Single Phase to Three Phase Conversion

Instructions, Knowledge / June 5, 2024 / Leave a Comment

What is phase conversion? A phase converter is a device that produces three-phase electrical power from a single-phase source, allowing the operation of three-phase equipment at a site that only has single-phase electrical service. Why would I need phase conversion? A large number of applications and equipment once considered “industrial” require three-phase power. The general use of three-phase equipment is increasing on farms and ranches, in home wood and metal shops, or in other locations where utility-provided 3-phase isn’t readily available. Even when 3-phase is available nearby, the costs of bringing in new service, adding additional transformers and wire can …

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How Do You Balance Voltage in a Rotary Phase Converter?

Instructions / March 9, 2022 / Leave a Comment

For years, many companies have used (and continue to use) the inexpensive method of “stacking” run capacitors in order to get a phase converter started. Those capacitors are not taken out of the circuit once the phase converter is running, which results in extremely high voltage and current imbalance. This condition causes current overloads that will burn out motors that are smaller than what the phase converter was sized for (ie. running a 2HP mill on a 40HP converter). Furthermore, this condition will ultimately cause the phase converter itself to burn out. The justification for continuing to build phase converters …

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Three-Phase Converters for Metalworking & Welder

Instructions, Knowledge / March 9, 2022 / Leave a Comment

Like many other applications, three phase metalworking equipment requires three phase power to operate properly. Industrial metalworking equipment can include both motor and non-motor (resistive and inductive) loads. The voltage-sensitive equipment needs to be operating at full capacity with a balanced output, allowing for different types of loads to be handled with efficiency and precision. ATO phase converters are incredibly versatile, able to power both tiny, lightly-loaded machines and huge, heavily-loaded machines. You’ll only need one phase converter to get the job done. Some of the common metalworking applications that can be powered by a three-phase converter include: Welders Ironworkers …

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How Do You Find the Right Static Phase Converter?

Instructions / March 7, 2022 / Leave a Comment

Static phase converters are typically designed to have a running load capability around only 66% of the rated power under normal run conditions. In certain pieces of equipment, this causes no conflict but for other machines, it may be problematic. You may hear many different stories out there of the success and failures of static phase converters being used in applications depending on the brand/specs of both parts. Now, let’s get to the meat of the matter…we’re talking about applications, installation and sharing the information our technical support team receives directly from the manufacturer.  Starting with the basics, how do you …

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Static vs. Rotary Phase Converter-Which to Use?

Comparison, Instructions / March 9, 2022 / Leave a Comment

Phase converters have been around for decades, transforming a single-phase power source into a 3-phase. The two most popular types of phase converters are: Static Phase Converter Rotary Phase Converter Static Phase Converter typically consists of one or several capacitors and a relay switch. Rotary Phase Converter is the same Static Phase Converter only with a small idler motor (or generator) and run-capacitors, that give you a continuous 3-phase power while you use your equipment. The main difference between Static and Rotary Phase Converters is that Static Phase Converter will disconnect itself after your engine has started and you will …

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Is It Worth Looking into a 3-Phase Converter?

Benefits, Knowledge / March 9, 2022 / Leave a Comment

YOU’RE LOOKING FOR MORE RELIABLE 3 PHASE POWER – SHOULD YOU BE LOOKING FOR A 3-PHASE CONVERTER? HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO MAKE THAT SWITCH. Three-phase power is awesome. But it is right for you? Look at what a 3-Phase converter can do for you and your business. Most phase converters are used to produce three-phase electric power from a single-phase source. This allows for the operation of three-phase equipment at a site that only has single-phase electrical service. There are many benefits to shifting from single-phase to the more versatile 3-phase. Whether you’re working with a 1-phase shop, or …

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Top 5 Things to Know When Buying a Phase Converter

Instructions / March 11, 2022 / Leave a Comment

Everyday we get hundreds of calls with questions about phase converters. So, we thought we would take a moment and go over the top 5 things you should know before buying a phase converter. As you can see, there are a few basic things you should know before buying a phase converter. 1.Make sure you have enough single phase power. Here’s how to calculate how much single phase power you need: Take the amount of three phase amps of your load x 1.6 = amount of single phase amps. Then, take the amount of single phase amps x 1.2 = …

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When Would You Choose a Variable Frequency Drive?

Instructions, Knowledge / March 9, 2022 / Leave a Comment

A Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) is a great choice if you have a sigle motor that either needs 3 phase power or to be speed controlled. It is a cost effective choice for phase conversion if the motor will be controlled directly from the VFD rather than from buttons or a computer on your machine. Examples where a VFD is great option include a stand-alone pump or compressor, a saw that has simple on and off controlls, or a fan. It is not suitable to power both a motor and it’s on-board computer system. It is also not ideal when …

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Rotary Phase Converters Sizing and Buying Guide

Instructions / March 9, 2022 / Leave a Comment

Rotary Phase Converter (or RPC) is a machine that is designed to change single-phase power into three-phase power. These converters could be used to run industrial machinery with three-phase motors or any 3-phase motor in your own shop. Single-phase motors are known to produce no more than 15 hp (11 kW) with many of them producing up to 5 hp (3.7 kW). There is a great demand for three-phase motors because of the power they generate (15 hp + ), easier starting, and greater efficiency than ones that work on a single phase. Phase converters are very popular among shop …

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