Phase converters enable three-phase equipment to operate from an existing single-phase power supply, providing a cost-effective alternative when three-phase service is unavailable or expensive to install. Designed for industrial and commercial applications, they are commonly used to power CNC machines, compressors, pumps, mills, lathes, welders, and other three-phase motor-driven equipment. Available in different configurations and power ratings, phase converters help users select the right solution based on equipment requirements, voltage, and motor horsepower.
Choosing the right phase converter is not simply a matter of matching the converter's kW rating to the motor's rated power. Three-phase motors usually require higher current during startup than during normal operation. The required converter capacity depends on the motor rated power, starting method, starting current, load characteristics, and operating conditions.
Before selecting a phase converter, check the equipment nameplate for motor power, voltage, frequency, and full-load current. Then select a converter based on the motor starting method and application requirements.
Use the chart below to estimate the required phase converter capacity based on your three-phase motor rated power and starting method.
|
Motor Power Requirement |
Recommended Converter Size |
Application Consideration |
|
1 HP (0.75 kW) Three Phase Motor |
3–5 HP (2.2–3.7 kW) Phase Converter |
Suitable for small motors and light-duty equipment with low starting current. |
|
3 HP (2.2 kW) Three Phase Motor |
7.5–10 HP (5.5–7.5 kW) Phase Converter |
Common for small machine tools, fans, pumps and workshop equipment. |
|
5 HP (3.7 kW) Three Phase Motor |
10–15 HP (7.5–11 kW) Phase Converter |
Used for compressors, lathes, mills and other motor-driven equipment. |
|
10 HP (7.5 kW) Three Phase Motor |
20–30 HP (15–22 kW) Phase Converter |
Consider additional capacity for CNC machines and high starting torque loads. |
|
20 HP (15 kW) Three Phase Motor |
40–60 HP (30–45 kW) Phase Converter |
Recommended for larger industrial motors, pumps and compressors. |
|
50 HP (37 kW) Three Phase Motor |
100 HP (75 kW) Phase Converter |
High-power applications may require evaluation of startup current and duty cycle. |
Note: The recommended converter sizes above are general references only. Actual selection should also consider the motor starting current, load type, voltage requirements, and whether multiple machines operate at the same time.
|
Motor Starting Method |
Recommended Converter Capacity |
Typical Applications |
|
Direct-start motor |
Motor rated power × 5–7 |
Machine tools, pumps, compressors, fans, and other direct-start loads |
|
Soft starter + motor |
Motor rated power × 3 or more |
Equipment using a soft starter to reduce startup current |
|
VFD controlled motor |
Motor rated power × 1.5–2 |
Variable-speed machines controlled by a VFD |
Important: Do not select a phase converter by matching converter kW directly to motor kW. Actual sizing depends on motor starting current, load torque, acceleration time, voltage requirements, and operating conditions.