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Old 05-29-2008, 12:16 AM   #1
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Low-cost/low-end 3ph convertor ?

I need a low-cost solution for powering a couple <1HP 3PH motors.

I think a static convertor should work, if anyone knows of a cheap source. I can buy a 2HP VFD for $129, so that's my upper $ limit for powering both motors.

I looked into building my own, but the man-hours spent chasing parts is a poor use of my time.

Edit: ok, maybe I don't know what I'm talking about. I need to power a couple fans..is a static convertor recommended ? Seeing conflicting advice.

-Mark
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Old 05-29-2008, 11:34 PM   #2
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Re: Low-cost/low-end 3ph convertor ?

Originally Posted by mkepke View Post
I need a low-cost solution for powering a couple <1HP 3PH motors.



Edit: ok, maybe I don't know what I'm talking about. I need to power a couple fans..is a static convertor recommended ? Seeing conflicting advice.

-Mark
Why would you want to power a couple of fans on three phase?
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Old 05-30-2008, 07:05 PM   #3
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Re: Low-cost/low-end 3ph convertor ?

Originally Posted by junquecol View Post
Why would you want to power a couple of fans on three phase?
Not the kind of fans you're probably thinking of.

I broke down and ordered a VFD yesterday. If I can get the fans working, I'll post some pix in a week or two..should be pretty cool.

-Mark
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Old 05-31-2008, 04:58 PM   #4
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Re: Low-cost/low-end 3ph convertor ?

I haven't used a VFD, but have heard good things about them. I have a rotary converter, and that is my only experience. I think static would work for you as you are not pulling a lot of HP. VFD is nicer from what I have heard as you can do more with it.
__________________
Wife changed my perspective. I need want some additional tools. I need want a

multi-spindle line borer - unlikely in 2008
pocket hole machine - unlikely in 2008
Festool sander and vacuum -told I don't need 2 not going to happen
Edge bander - unlikely this decade
oscillating edge sander - unlikely in 2008
floor model chisel or slot mortiser - unlikely in 2008

and a bigger shop - maybe in 2009
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Old 06-01-2008, 04:03 PM   #5
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Re: Low-cost/low-end 3ph convertor ?

Originally Posted by mkepke View Post
Not the kind of fans you're probably thinking of.

I broke down and ordered a VFD yesterday. If I can get the fans working, I'll post some pix in a week or two..should be pretty cool.

-Mark
Inverters give you a lot of flexibility depending on the app. I've set up a whole lotta fans on inverters...many apps had fans fed in parallel from the same inverter...have to handle those a little different than single motor use.

If you're starting and stopping or changing speeds frequently you may need to tweak ramp times (accel/decel) and may need to use overvoltage control to handle regen when decelerating.

Chuck
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