Rotary Phase converters

[Niner]

As Kief stated VFD's do change AC in to DC but the DC is Made into a DC square wave Similiar to an AC Sine wave. The Motor sees it as an AC signal though. For a little more information The only Way to change the speed of an AC motor is to change the Hertz (HZ) In the USA our power comes to us at 60 HZ in other Countries it is 50 HZ. Hertz is how frequently the AC is switched from positive to negative thus creating the Sine Wave. Thus the VFD was developed to change the hz of electricity to change the speed of an AC motor. Until recently that is what these were used for, but for a small amount of money manufacturers were able to offer a unit that would accept an single phase input to 3 phase output. I hope this gives some what of an explatation of how they work.

Also not all VFD's will accept a single phase input so if looking for one get the correct model.

 

[Klunky Chris]

OK... Maybe I'm outta my league, but what exactly are you guys talking about ???

My gut tells me that 3 phase is refering to 220v/240v like is used for a dryer/stove/etc.
if so... then why don't you jsut run a 220v breaker and line to your garage?

or is that 2 phase?

If it is only 2 phase, then you are talking about a different service feed from the electric company? uses 4 wires maybe???

confused.....

(I'm currently learning about AC wiring... know plenty about 12v, but have been afraid of the hi-voltage stuff )

 

[Junk]

Niner, thanks for the info.

LOL Klunky, you just gotta focus on one wire, the one that's on your winch. Sent ya email on that synth rope that's been in my truck for 2 weeks now. Check yer email dude. 3 phase is the industrial type power - most older machinery runs on it but it cost a fortune to get it run to your shack assuming it's available. Cheaper to get a converter or VFD.

 

[Photoman]

Klunky,
Normal US house current comes in as two 110 lines and one neutral. 3 phase is basically 3 110 lines and a neutral. That's why 3 phase is not available everywhere. 3 phase equipment is cheaper to operate (start), next is 220, then 110.

Bill