Frequency Converter

A frequency converter is an electrical power conversion device that changes the input power frequency to a different output frequency, such as 50Hz to 60Hz, 60Hz to 50Hz, or 400Hz. It is commonly used when equipment is designed for a different country, power grid, testing environment, or industrial application than the available local power supply.

At PowerHome, frequency converters are available for both single phase and three phase applications, with adjustable output voltage and stable frequency output for sensitive equipment, industrial machinery, laboratory testing, imported appliances, pumps, motors, and aviation-related ground support systems.

Frequency Converter Quick Selection Guide

How to Size a Frequency Converter

A simple sizing method is: Required converter capacity = Load power × Starting current factor × Safety margin

For electronic or resistive loads, a 20%–30% safety margin is often enough. For motors, pumps, compressors and other inductive loads, choose a larger converter because startup current can be much higher than running current. Example: 3kW pump × 2 startup factor × 1.3 safety margin = 7.8kW. In this case, a converter rated above 7.8kW should be considered. Always confirm voltage, phase, frequency and load type before ordering.

Choose a Frequency Converter by Power Capacity

50Hz, 60Hz and 400Hz Applications

The two most common utility frequencies are 50Hz and 60Hz. Many countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America use 50Hz power, while the United States and some other regions use 60Hz power. This creates problems when imported machines, appliances, pumps, compressors, or test equipment are used in a country with a different grid frequency.

• A 50Hz to 60Hz frequency converter is often used for equipment imported from 50Hz regions and operated in a 60Hz country. A 60Hz to 50Hz frequency converter is commonly used for American equipment running in countries with 50Hz power.
• A 400Hz frequency converter is typically used in aviation, aerospace, military, marine, and specialized testing applications. Aircraft electrical systems often use 400Hz power because it allows smaller and lighter electrical components. Ground support equipment, avionics testing, and aircraft maintenance facilities may require stable 400Hz power.

Single Phase vs Three Phase Frequency Converter

Choosing between a single phase and three phase frequency converter depends on the type of power your equipment requires.

• A single phase frequency converter is suitable for many small machines, home appliances, laboratory devices, office equipment, light-duty motors, and imported consumer products. Common single phase voltages include 110V, 120V, 220V, 230V and 240V.
• A three phase frequency converter is designed for industrial equipment, production machines, pumps, compressors, CNC machines, heavy-duty motors, test benches, and large commercial systems. Common three phase voltages include 208V, 220V, 380V, 400V, 415V, 440V and 480V.

As a general rule, always match the converter output phase to the equipment input requirement. If your machine nameplate says "3PH" or "three phase," choose a three phase frequency converter. If it says "1PH" or "single phase," choose a single phase model.

Frequency Converter vs Voltage Converter vs VFD

• A frequency converter changes frequency and, depending on the model, may also provide adjustable output voltage. It is designed to supply stable AC power to equipment that requires a specific frequency.
• A voltage converter changes voltage only, such as 110V to 220V or 220V to 110V. It does not change frequency. If your equipment specifically requires 50Hz or 60Hz, a voltage converter alone may not be enough.
• A VFD, or variable frequency drive, is mainly used to control the speed of AC motors. While a VFD changes frequency, it is usually designed for motor control rather than providing a clean, general-purpose power supply for appliances, lab equipment, or sensitive electronics. For non-motor loads or mixed loads, a dedicated frequency converter is usually the better choice.