Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Static Phase Converters

In a message dated 4/2/2005 3:52:57 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
SMCDONAL@... writes:

I have used a phasamatic unit on the mill that I have. The converter was a
PAM300 3hp rated and it would not start the 1-1/2 hp mill. It in fact has a
110 volt start cap which exploded. There is nothing wrong with the mill. I
bought one of these units because it was UL approved and I figured it would
work better then the unit that I built. I was wrong. Also it has cardboard
in it which is a no no and a fire hazard and illegal. Further it only starts
the motor on three phase and supplies single phase after the red light goes
out. I could have done the same thing with a light switch and a start cap
(maybe $30). I replaced the cap with a 220 volt one and wired in my own run
caps. I spent $115 on the unit buying it and then additional on the parts. I
had a similar system wired up for $30 total prior to buying the
phase-a-matic. You can however use the phase-a-matic and a three phase motor
to make your own rotary converter however it again will not have run caps
and therefore the phase balance will be further off then if you build your
own.
Most static converters work as I have described and therefore build your own
you will be much better off.
Regards
Stan


-------Original Message-------

From: Dave Shiels
Date: 04/02/05 14:34:14
To: CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Static Phase Converters

Anyone used Static Phase Converters? Are they anygood. The price points
are much more attractive than a motor driven one.





The OEMs that manufacture industrial three phase machinery have an uspoken
policy, although some do put it it writing, that if you try to run a piece of
their three phase machinery on a static phase converter, the warranty is
VOID. This is not to say that static converters don't work in all cases but, it
has been their experience, and mine, that they don't work most of the time as
advertised. Rotary converters have always been required by the OEMs I have
worked with. Now, however, you can use an AC variable frequency drive to
make the conversion. They make those that take in single phase 220 and will
convert it to three phase with no real problems. This is more expensive than
the $30.00 or so mentioned in the previous post. But, it does work and it
gives you the ability to control the speed of the motor, if desired.



Randy Abernathy
4626 Old Stilesboro Road NW
Acworth, GA 30101-4066
Phone / Fax: 770-974-5295
E-mail: cnc002@...

I furnish technical support, repair, and other related services for your
industrial woodworking machinery. My background as Senior Service Engineer for
the SCMI Group for nearly fifteen years with factory training, combines with
my extensive background in electronics, mechanics, pneumatics, electrical and
CNC machinery to offer you needed support for your machinery.


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