Frequently Asked Questions about Three Phase and Rotary Power Phase Converters

If you have any question about three phase power converters or rotary power converters or any of the information below please send us an email or call our toll free line at reedwest@pacbell.net | 1.888.739.9392

You can find Phase Converters in many different locations. They are used most commonly in Factories and Machine Shops, but Woodworking Shops, Sewage Plants, Farms and even Homes have three phase power conversion needs. Phase converters are used to run many different types of equipment, including Metal and Woodworking Machines, Compressors, Pumps, Welders, Elevators, and even Fans, Wells, and Irrigation equipment.

In many ways RPCs three phase power converters are similar to electric motors and share many of the same components. Working with engineers we have designed components that are used only in rotary phase converters. While rotation can be started with a motor and capacitators, this solution isn't as efficient and can't handle the stresses placed on the electrical system very well. The primary parts of our phase converters, including the winding density, laminations, and rotor, have been designed to work at maximum efficiency at all times. These factors, and how the capacitors are wired into the system, make us the leaders in power conversion technology.

Installing a Rotary Phase Converter isn't difficult, but because they tend to have more experience with electric motors we recommend using an industrial electrical contractor. A high level of experience with wiring systems is also useful.

Not really, generally only pennies an hour. We use more copper and iron, and tend to be more efficient, than other units. The good news is that an RPC under full load is running at its most efficient. This means that a rotary phase converter that isn't under load will cost more to run. Both a converter with a three phase motor and a single phase motor will generally cost the same.

Rotary Phase Converters are amperage producing devices. As such, sizing requires simply knowing how many total continuous running amps and starting amps you will need. From there, it will be important to review our Convert-A-Phase Load Calculation Questionnaire and Data Entry Form. It provides enough information so that a misapplication can be avoided. Frequently, RPCs are rated in horsepower. Using HP makes sizing simple, but a bit more dangerous. It glosses over potential hazards in tough or unique applications.

Electric utilities generate three phase power through transformers. Typically the voltage is balanced within plus or minus 5%. RPCs are rotary motor generators that induce a third single leg. In many single phase environments two lines are available; each with 115 volts to ground or 230 volts between lines. RPCs provide the needed third line of 115 volts, at particular amperage, based on the size of the unit, and the single phase amperage available. Because the third leg is manipulated through the use of capacitors, it will typically be higher than the utility company’s 230 volts between lines. This higher voltage drops to a more normal level when the RPC is driving a customer’s machinery. Be sure to check volts and amps when machinery is under full load.

Cost, ease of startup, less maintenance, size, noise, dealing with old gasoline. Call us for the many other reasons. Our toll free number is 1.888.739.9392.

Sometimes in units over 50 amps, officials get curious. We have not heard of mandatory reporting unless you need to increase the size of your single phase service.