Single-Phase to 3-Phase Power
Phase Converters 101
What is a single-phase to 3-phase rotary phase converter?
Single-phase to three-phase conversion creates a third line of voltage — a third sine wave — making three-phase power possible in a single-phase environment. NAPCco offers three styles of single-phase to three-phase converters: Rotary, Static, and Digital.
How does a phase converter work, and what size is most appropriate for your application? These are the two most common questions, and you’ve come to a great place to start.
Types of Phase Converters: Rotary vs Digital vs Static
Three styles, three jobs. Here’s the quick version. Scroll down for the detail on each.
Rotary Phase Converters
A rotary phase converter is the most popular and universal type. It runs 3-phase equipment at full rated power from a single-phase power source and will handle every type of load – motor, resistive, and inductive.
Digital Phase Converters
Operate any 3-phase inductive, resistive, or motor load at full rated power using AC-DC-AC conversion. Advanced digital control automatically balances the output for smooth and efficient operation.
Static Phase Converters
Run 3-phase motors from single-phase power at 2/3 the rated horsepower. Static phase converters are for motor loads only. They are best suited for light and moderate, hobby and occasional-use applications.
Rotary Phase Converters
A rotary phase converter runs three-phase equipment at full rated power from a single-phase source. It consists of two components: an “idler generator” (also known as an idler motor) and a “control panel.” The control panel includes a start circuit to start/stop the idler generator and capacitance to balance voltages between phases. The idler generator is energized by the single-phase power, spinning a rotating mass. That rotation generates a third line of power, which is coupled with the two single-phase lines to make three-phase power.
What will a rotary phase converter run? A single-phase to three-phase rotary converter will run every type of load — motor, resistive, and inductive. Need help selecting and sizing the right one? Call NAPCco today at 877-545-2926.
Pro-Line Rotary Phase Converters
Pro-Line Rotary Phase Converters are a general-purpose “workhorse” used to convert single-phase power into three phases. Pro-Line has a digitally controlled and protected start circuit and uses a “generator/idler” and power factor correction capacitors to provide utility-grade three-phase power.
The Pro-Line Converter is an economical solution for all types of loads — motors, resistive, inductive, and CNC. Best for food service, woodworking, and metalworking machine tools.
Smart-Boost™ Digital Rotary Phase Converters
Smart-Boost™ Digital Rotary Phase Converters are the perfect product for those hard-starting / high-inertia motor loads. The Smart-Boost™ units use an idler generator and a solid-state electronic controller to provide an additional boost of current to external motor loads during start up.
The Smart-Boost™ Digital Phase Converters are ideal for pumps, blowers, fans, dust collectors, flywheel loads, and compressors.
Smart-Phase™ Digital Rotary Phase Converters
Smart-Phase™ is a digital rotary phase converter best suited for voltage-sensitive machines and/or multiple loads running simultaneously. It has the newest advancement in phase converter technology: 8-stage automatic voltage regulation (AVR). Solid-state switches are used to regulate and provide balanced voltage, helping your three-phase equipment run as efficiently as possible.
Smart-Phase™ Digital Phase Converters are ideal for CNC machines, motors controlled by a variable frequency drive (VFD), or equipment loaded with electronics.
Rotary Converter Control Panels — “Add Your 3-Phase Motor”
Rotary Phase Converter Control Panels are half of a rotary phase converter. This is for the customer who has their own three-phase motor to use as an idler motor. The control panel includes a motor starter, power factor correction capacitors, and input and output terminal block connections.
Digital Phase Converters
NAPCco digital phase converters will operate any inductive, resistive, or motor load at full rated power from a single-phase power supply. Unlike other phase converters, this type creates a third line of power using a process called AC-DC-AC conversion: the incoming single-phase power is converted to a DC supply, then converted back to AC voltage using Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBTs). This proprietary system, equipped with advanced digital control technology, automatically balances the power output for smooth operation and maximum efficiency.
Digital Phase Converters
NAPCco digital phase converters are designed to provide clean and balanced three-phase power by using the latest in solid-state switching technology. A smart digital control device continuously monitors the voltage and current, while a high-speed microprocessor produces precise and stable power conversion. Digital phase converters reduce voltage spikes, phase imbalances, and power loss, enabling smooth operation and extended equipment life. They are an ideal choice for all of your business and home power needs.
Static Phase Converters
Static phase converters run three-phase motors from single-phase power at 2/3 the rated horsepower. They only work with light and moderate motor loads. Static phase converters from North America Phase Converter Company (NAPCco) are masterfully engineered and manufactured for the three-phase power conversion needs of hobby and occasional-use applications that don’t require full power for their motor/equipment. Recognized as a cost-effective alternative to other types of phase converters, our Made in America static converters can be easily mounted on or near your equipment, while offering straightforward installation and wiring.
Static Phase Converters
A static phase converter is used to generate three-phase power during the start-up of a motor. It consists of one or more start capacitors and a start relay. The start capacitors produce electricity across the third winding of a three-phase motor during start up. Once the motor is up to speed, these capacitors are disconnected, and the motor runs on just the two single-phase lines (in essence, the motor is single-phasing). NAPCco offers two types of static phase converters: Standard Duty and High-Low Double Horsepower.
Sizing Your Phase Converter
The importance of properly sizing a rotary phase converter cannot be overstated. Proper sizing ensures years of trouble-free performance for your equipment. If you ever have questions about sizing, call one of our application engineers at 877-545-2926. Note: you can never oversize a single-phase to three-phase converter; there are no minimum load requirements for a North America Rotary Phase Converter.
Which Type of Phase Converter Is Right for Your Equipment?
Match your equipment to the recommended converter type, then shop that category. Still unsure? Call 877-545-2926 and we’ll match you to the right unit.
Common Single-Phase to 3-Phase Applications
Agricultural Applications
Pivots, pumps, grain dryers, and handling units are common applications for the rotary phase converter. “Stacking” phase converters, also known as paralleling, offers flexibility and redundancy. Mobile and weatherproof converters are also available for shared and outdoor applications.
Food Service Equipment
Dough mixers, sheeters, exhaust fans, ovens, walk-in coolers, and freezers are commonly powered by a high-quality rotary or digital phase converter. NAPCco rotary phase converters come with a control panel that is easy to mount on the wall for flexibility if your area is tight on floor space.
Industrial & Automotive
Mills, lathes, CNC, metal forming and bending, air compressors, cranes, hoists, and welders are frequent applications for rotary phase conversion. For air compressors, consider a rotary phase converter with “Auto Controls” so that the converter only runs when the compressor needs air. A wireless remote control is helpful with hoist and automotive welding operations where only brief operation is needed.
Metalworking Equipment
CNC vertical and horizontal machining centers, lathes, mills, press brakes, tube bending, shears, and iron workers are well-suited for conversion. Gather the horsepower, amperage, or kVA off the machine, call us, and we’ll match the most appropriate converter that provides stable voltage and power. NAPCco is a UL-certified panel builder, and our converters are custom-designed to run CNC, VFD, and voltage-sensitive equipment.
Woodworking Equipment
CNC router tables, table saws, dust collectors, edge banders, wide belt sanders, jointers, planers, and molders are frequently used in small to large cabinet shops. Conveniently power multiple machines with the same rotary phase converter. If you plan on future expansion, our application engineers will help you find a cost-effective converter that maximizes your investment.