Using 60 Hz. equipment on 50 Hz.

[CBravo]

We use a 20 Kw RF oven that uses a TH-6 tube to heat phenolic resin for a molding operation on our 60 Hz. supply system.

We need to relocate a manufactuing operation to India where the electrical supply is 50 Hz.

Would a huge variable frequency drive be suitable to adapt the supply?
I'm guessing it would be too choppy and harmonic laden to work.

I'm interested to see if anyone else has faced a similar problem.
I searched the forum before posting and found some good stuff on transformer saturation, but an RF heater would be far more frequency conscious, no?

 

[wayne440]

Before I bought a "huge VFD" I would ask the heater manufacturer if they offer or can produce a 50hz power supply.

 

[CBravo]

I'm still waiting to hear back from the manuafacturer. The word is they just de-rate everything and run at reduced power. Our process will not allow that.

I'm looking at M/G sets now. (motor/generators)

Thanks for the input.

 

[wayne440]

A properly sized MG would probably get you there.

It might also be possible to fit larger (preferably 50Hz rated)plate, filament etc. transformers and run at full ratings on 50Hz. You should also look very closely at the cooling airflow, to be sure you will have enough at 50Hz, you may have to change the blower/fan etc. A tube that draws 750W just for the heater is not something I would want to use much guesswork on.