Phase Converters - 1 Phase to 3 Phase
Phase Converters - 1 Phase to 3 Phase
(OP)
In a sewage pumping station, we have 3 phase power terminated at our property line. I have been told that connecting the 3 phase power to our equipment (designed for 3 phase power) will require a transformer whose footprint does not fit on our site. I can direct the subdivision developer to expand our property, but it was suggested to use a phase converter resulting in a transformer with a smaller footprint.
I'm looking for advice. Are there any drawbacks to using a phase converter? Any long-term issues associate with using the converter vs. the three phase power? Anything I need to be aware of for this application? Power supply is 3 Phase 240 Volt, the pump station motors operate on 3 Phase at 208 Volts. This is a 100 amp service.
I'm looking for advice. Are there any drawbacks to using a phase converter? Any long-term issues associate with using the converter vs. the three phase power? Anything I need to be aware of for this application? Power supply is 3 Phase 240 Volt, the pump station motors operate on 3 Phase at 208 Volts. This is a 100 amp service.





RE: Phase Converters - 1 Phase to 3 Phase
RE: Phase Converters - 1 Phase to 3 Phase
208V motors are good for 200-220V. Try buying a 230V motor, if you do not want to use a transformer. Tranformer is a better choice than a phase convertor which generally used to convert single phase supply to 3 phase. Transformer can also be mounted on a outdoor pole if it helps.
You may be able to apply a Variable Frequency Drive or a solid state starter than can regulate the voltage to your motor (keep it below 220V). However the the VFD shall be rated for 240V.
You did not mention the HP of your motor so your service size information is not useful.
RE: Phase Converters - 1 Phase to 3 Phase
RE: Phase Converters - 1 Phase to 3 Phase
1. caution-This may be hazardous location that may require hazardous rated equipment.
2. The phase converter (motor generator type) with outdoor enclosure and associated control will have a larger footprint than a transformer of the same size. You will have the loss of the converter that will also mean a larger load. the cost will be twice as much. the convert will need to be serviced the same as any other motor.
3. If you use a soild state converter the cost go thru the roof because you will need to control the temperature a in an insultated enclosure with ventilation , heating and air conditioning. rainproof etc. You will may need a ups for the controls and on and on. There goes you footprint
4. Why can't you mount the transformer on a power pole?
Who is giving you this advice to use a converter and can he show you a typical installtion or is this just water cooler talk.
RE: Phase Converters - 1 Phase to 3 Phase
To answer questions posed on replies to my thread...
The motors are 5Hp operating at 3phase and 208 volts with 50amp circuit breaker on the motors.
The size of the transformer footprint is small, but the electrical utility requires the equipment to be mounted inside a 10'x10' concrete containment structure. Our pump station site is only 40'x40' and includes the station, electrical cabinet, emergency generator and associated sewer piping, etc.
The transformer cannot be pole-mounted as this is in a typical new residential subdivision with all underground utilities.
I have a phase converter on one of our 25 sewage pumping stations, but only out of shear remoteness of the facility. The converter is a small unit, but the station was built long before I began employment here and I was not involved with design.
The converter for this new station was originally proposed by an electrician as a cheaper way to get power to the station than building this containment structure for the utility supplier.
Thanks again to all.
RE: Phase Converters - 1 Phase to 3 Phase