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Static Phase ConvertersStatic Phase Converters have been around for centuries and were the first phase converters to be used. Even in today’s marketplace, they are still widely used to produce three phase power. The reason that static phase converters were so popular was because they were recommended by manufacturers and were inexpensive to purchase. In our research, static phase converters are not the best or the safest phase converters to use. The reason for this is that they do not produce true, three phase power. A static phase converter works by changing and discharging capacitors to produce a third phase of power just in the startup of a motor. With a static phase converter, it is not capable of running a motor at full horsepower. These phase converters require the motor to be significantly de-rated. Usually, the motor will only receive between 60 to 80 percent of its operating power. The U.S. Phase Converter Standards Organization is a good resource to see how phase converters are rated. One of the main reasons for not using a static phase converter is you are guaranteed that it will not produce a balanced electrical load. When equipment is run on unbalanced voltages, it can cause your motors to overheat, and worse, destroy your equipment. As mentioned in the above paragraph, the reason why static phase converters are still used extensively is because of their lower cost. Many companies and individuals buy static phase converters because they think they are saving on operating expenses. Contrary to what consumers believe, static phase converters are known to reduce the life of your equipment. They are unable to operate sensitive equipment or multiple loads and use more electricity than a rotary phase converter, which is more dependable. Static phase converters have harmonic problems that pollute the power grid and damage equipment. Their life spam is usually one to two years, while a true, three phase rotary converter’s life expectancy is 35 years. You might think you are saving money, but in the long run, it will cost you more expense because of repair and production downtime when using a static phase converter. Companies and individuals purchase static phase converters to run their expensive equipment only ending up with their equipment burning out. Replacing equipment can be very costly. It is very important to work with experienced and reputable manufacturers in the beginning so you will be assured that your phase converter will meet the needs of your application requirements. The only time we would recommend a static phase converter is if you have only one piece of equipment to run, if you are a small business, or a home owner with a welder or grinder for your applications. A static phase converter can only run one piece of equipment at a time, while a rotary phase converter can operate several motors simultaneously. In The Three Phase Electricity Specialist Study, we found that ACE Phase Converters manufacturer quality phase converters. They also offer a true, three phase rotary phase converter, which our study found to be the most reliable. A word of caution, many manufacturers claim they produce a true, rotary phase converter, which is nothing more than a static phase converter with a motor. One of the first questions you need to ask is about their warranty coverage. A high quality rotary phase converter will have at least a five-year warranty or more. If the manufacturer you are working with has less than a five-year warranty on their rotary phase converters, chances are that they are selling you a static phase converter with a motor. We strongly recommend that you seek out a more reputable manufacturer. An excellent resource on rating quality manufacturers is The Phase Converter Manufacturer Directory. |
A true, Rotary Phase Converter can convert single phase power into three phase power. |
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Always remember to seek out a reputable manufacturer of
true, rotary phase converters. It will save you money and valuable
production time in the long run and provide you with many years of
quality service.
Ace Phase Converters
TEMCo Phase Converters
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