3 Types of Single-Phase to 3-Phase Converters

by Kevin Smith Author

A power tower's role is to transmit the most feasible amount of voltage to households throughout a neighborhood. For this to be possible, the 3-phase power that's produced by a power plant is converted to single phase when transmitting.

The Single- and 3-Phase Power

The single-phase voltage that a household receives is sufficient to generate electricity for most appliances; conversely, for manufacturers whose equipment requires higher voltages, 3-phase voltage is used. For settings where the initial voltage that's transmitted is insufficient, turning to phase converters from single to 3 phase is an option.

Large machines like industrial-sized fans or LED walls usually have motors which require 3-phase power. If the required voltage isn't readily accessible in the local grid, one of the 3 types of single to 3-phase converters can be used. These are static converters, rotary phase converters, and variable frequency drives (VFD).

Static Converters

A static phase converter's function is to start a 3-phase motor on single-phase power. While 3-phase machines can't start on single-phase loads, having a device that allows it to run using the initial voltage is one of the options that can be used. This is done through the capacitors of a static converter to act as two of the 3 phases needed for the machine to function.

Rotary Phase Converters

Rotary phase converters perform as both an independent generator and a substitute 3-phase motor. While this device doesn't move the parent machine's power motors, rotary phase converters generate independent power that's similar to how 3-phase power systems run by using an idler motor.

Variable Frequency Drives (VFD)

VFDs allow machines running on 3-phase motors to function by replicating their conditions. This is done by using inverters that create an alternating current. These alternating currents can be adjusted to any frequency and match them with those of the desired motors, including a 3-phase one.

There are 2 methods that can be used for 3-phase motors to run them with single-phase power. These can happen by either replacing the motor completely or by using either one of the 3-phase converters. It's important to note that the information in this article is intended purely for academic. Altering the wires at your home or other places is dangerous. If you want to use phase converters from single to 3 phase at home, ask a trained professional for assistance.