Static Phase Converters

[bczygan]

Looking for one for my 2HP Bridgeport. Bridgeport is already set up for one. Has cord and plug already.

Need advice on size and brands.

Looking at Phase-A-Matic 1-3HP standard duty one. This brand any good? Is this the right size?

Hardwire the converter? Switch to shut it off?

Correct outlet to output the power to from the converter?

Bill

 

[Majordisorder]

You may want to consider a VFD over a static phase converter. I couldn't afford the loss of power on my 1-hp Bridgeport so went with a VFD. Lots of info out there.

 

[bczygan]

You may want to consider a VFD over a static phase converter. I couldn't afford the loss of power on my 1-hp Bridgeport so went with a VFD. Lots of info out there.

My B'port has a 2HP motor on it.

And I have a 3HP VFD.

But this mill was hooked up to a static phase converter and already has the cord and plug, so should be easy to hook up.

The plug is a 14L30 though. Seems excessive for 2HP.

Bill

 

[Monkey Milk]

Use the VFD, stay away from static converters. You can only start and stop a number of times when using a static converter before you fry the caps. Not good for drilling and taping.

 

[bczygan]

Use the VFD, stay away from static converters. You can only start and stop a number of times when using a static converter before you fry the caps. Not good for drilling and taping.

That doesn't sound right...

How many?

Bill

 

[Sticky Grips]

Just put an Automation Direct Supplied VFD on my Jet (Bridgeport Clone)...works like a charm! I don't have any experience with a Static Unit, but the VFD offers all kinds of benefits, slow/fast, ramping, braking, etc.

 

[Monkey Milk]

I don't know the exact cycles an hour but here is some good read.

boost energy

PM

 

[HAP]

Rotary phase converter is a better choice.

 

[Majordisorder]

Rotary Phase converter is a better choice? Please explain.

 

[cgrutt]

Rotary Phase converter is a better choice? Please explain.

Rotary phase converter uses a 3 ph idler motor, which should be rated higher HP than the machine's motor, to generate third leg so you don't have power loss that you have with static phase converter. Rotary phase converters are generally less expensive than VFD as you can use one to run all of your equipment whereas VFD is generally required at each machine. VFD does provide benefit of variable speed and reverse, though.

 

[blazemaster83]

I have A phase-a-matic static converter I believe in that size that I removed from a machine I bought years ago. I have 3 phase so I didn't need it. If you are interested, send me a pm.

 

[Sticky Grips]

If wired correctly, a RFD will allow instant reverse. It just wasn't important to me at the time, and the VFD allowed a whole lot more.

You can PM me for pictures.

 

[wkndwarrior29]

I bought an American rotary static phase converter off of eBay for a unisaw I had, before they shipped it a technical specialist called me to make sure I was buying the right type and size. It was a very high quality unit for the $65 I paid.

 

[Bobf]

I have a Index 55 (1952) mill which came with a Phase-a-matic 1-3 unit in 1986 when I bought it. I took the unit apart an reverse engineered it making several for use on friends machines and on my Monarch lathe. These have all been running well over 20+ yrs and I've never had a problem with them. Keep in mind they're only .707 % efficient or a 1 hp motor is now only 7/10th hp etc.

 

[manwithtools]

Rotary phase converter is a better choice.

Might be a better choice than a static converter, but not a better choice than a VFD. If you have never had a VFD on a mill or lathe then you might differ over my opinion. If you have had a VFD on such a machine there is no comparison to a fixed speed motor and you will agree. Single phase input VFD's for three horsepower or less are dirt cheap these days, I can't image even considering another solution.

 

[Ed ke6bnl]

Rotary phase converter is a better choice.

thats the way I went had the extra 3 phase motors for the static converter to have a rotary phase converter. ESPECIALLY if you have more than one 3phase item on the equipment.

 

[HAP]

Might be a better choice than a static converter, but not a better choice than a VFD. If you have never had a VFD on a mill or lathe then you might differ over my opinion. If you have had a VFD on such a machine there is no comparison to a fixed speed motor and you will agree. Single phase input VFD's for three horsepower or less are dirt cheap these days, I can't image even considering another solution.

RPC, with wired outlets in the shop is nice to run different equipment on without the power factor loss of a SPC. VFD is great for specific tool application where you would like to use features of the VFD.

 

[ultgar]

VFD is probably the best choice (price wise) for your 2hp Bridgeport. This digital converter just came in last week for loads up to 10hp. SD