Three Phase Frequency Converter

PowerHome three phase frequency converters are designed for industrial equipment that requires stable three phase AC power at a different voltage or frequency from the local utility supply. They are commonly used to convert 480V 60Hz to 380V/400V 50Hz, 380V/400V 50Hz to 480V 60Hz, or standard utility power to 400Hz for testing, aviation, marine and specialized industrial applications. With adjustable output voltage, selectable output frequency, pure sine wave power and built-in protection, these converters are suitable for CNC machines, pumps, compressors, motors, production lines, laboratory test systems and imported three phase machinery.

Three Phase Frequency Converter Quick Selection Guide

Check the Machine Nameplate Before Choosing a Three Phase Converter

Before ordering a three phase frequency converter, check the machine nameplate for input voltage, frequency, phase, rated current, power rating and wiring type. Common markings include 3PH, 380V, 400V, 415V, 440V, 460V, 480V, 50Hz, 60Hz, kW, HP, A, Delta or Wye. For motors, pumps, compressors and production equipment, allow extra converter capacity for startup current and continuous operation.

How to Size a Three Phase Frequency Converter

For three phase equipment, converter capacity is usually selected based on the equipment voltage, current and load type. Use the equipment nameplate rating as the starting point, then add a safety margin for startup current, overload and continuous operation.

Three phase kVA formula:

kVA = 1.732 × Voltage × Current ÷ 1000

Motor power conversion:

kW = HP × 0.746

Estimated kVA = kW ÷ power factor

For resistive or electronic loads, a small safety margin may be enough. For motors, pumps, compressors and heavy industrial machines, choose a larger converter to handle startup current.

Three Phase Frequency Converter Applications

Three Phase Frequency Converter vs VFD vs Phase Converter

When Do You Need a Three Phase Frequency Converter?

A three phase frequency converter is recommended when the equipment nameplate requires a different frequency from the local power supply, such as 50Hz equipment connected to a 60Hz grid or 60Hz equipment connected to a 50Hz grid. It is also useful when the equipment requires both voltage and frequency conversion, such as 480V 60Hz to 380V/400V 50Hz, or 380V/400V 50Hz to 480V 60Hz.

If your equipment only needs voltage conversion, a transformer may be enough. If you only need motor speed control, a VFD may be more suitable. If you need to power an entire three phase machine, test system, production line or mixed-load equipment at a different frequency, a three phase frequency converter is usually the better solution.