Rotary Phase Converters

Phase converters are mechanical devices that convert single-phase electric power into three-phase electric power. This enables 3-phase equipment to run where only single-phase power is available. With a rotary phase converter, it's possible to operate your 3-phase equipment on single phase electrical power anytime and anywhere three phase electric service is needed.

Examples of equipment that run on 3-phase power includes CNC /PLC Machines, pumps, metal working and wood working equipment, welders, ovens, lasers, compressors, refrigeration units, elevators, printing machines, and computers.

    Types of Phase Converters

There are three main types of phase converters in common use: Digital, Static, and Rotary devices. Of these three, rotary converters get the highest scores in all testing categories from the U.S. Phase Converter Standards Organization (USPCSO). The USPCSO is an authoritative body that educates the public, and sets quality standards for electrical phase converters products manufactured and sold in the U.S.

According to the USPCSO, A quality phase converter will be: (1) safe to operate; (2) Be of industrial quality that can last more than 5 years; (3) produce true balance 3 phase power; and (4) produce power that will not damage equipment. Rotary phase converters meet these requirements.

  Why Rotary Phase Converters are Better

Rotary phase converters utilize a balanced 3-phase generator with power factor correction that generates 3-phase electrical power. The power produced by these devices is balanced, safe, and often of better quality than standard three-phase power provided by utilities. When installed correctly, rotary phase converters are relatively quiet and very safe to operate.

Rotary phase converters are constructed of high quality components and copper windings, which makes them very durable, long lasting, and safe. With proper maintenance, a rotary phase converter can operate for many years. In fact, throughout the world there are thousands of rotary phase converters that have operated continuously for 30, 40, and even 50 years or more.

Rotary Phase Converter or Pretender?

Research conducted by the U.S. Phase Converter Standards Organization has revealed that some products sold as “rotary phase converters” were in fact, a less efficient static phase converter or a control box coupled with an electric motor. Testing of these pretenders has shown them to be unreliable and unsafe. Furthermore, they are likely to damage the very equipment they provide power for, because of phase imbalances that change with the load. These types of devices should be classified as "static converters" or "build your own phase converters."

Top Manufacturers

The Phase Converter Review Directory lists ACE and TEMCo as the top manufacturers of rotary phase converters. Each of these companies offers long warranties – 10 years and 6 years respectively, and their products have excellent quality, service, and product ratings. When searching for products to power your 3-phase equipment, ACE and TEMCo are good places to start.

In addition to ACE and TEMCo, there are a number of companies that manufacture rotary phase converters, including American Rotary/Gentec, Phase-a-Matic, Des-Co Industries, Kay Industries/PhaseMaster, and PhaseMAXX to name a few. There are also companies that will custom design and manufacture units that conform to the exact specifications needed by the customer.