Phase Changer F.A.Q

This depends upon the largest 3 phase load you need to operate. For example, if the largest machine or combination of machines adds up to 4kw, (5.5Hp) then a PC4 converter would be the best match. To be sure, check the electrical compliance plate on your machinery and consult with a Phase Change Converter sales representative.

While under load, Power Converters will typically use an additional 5% of energy beyond the power normally consumed by the customer machinery. All power converters have an internal pilot motor which require a small but constant standby current to run. This standby power drain varies with the size of the converter unit. An information table with precise values may be obtained from a Phase Change Converter sales representative. Standby power drain may be eliminated entirely by turning the Converter unit off when 3 phase power is not required. (This may be done at a circuit breaker switch or by using a ‘remote start’ option.)

Smaller converters such as the PC2 and PC3 can plug directly into existing domestic power outlets. (The PC3 requires a 15amp outlet). Larger converters draw more current than can be supported by domestic power outlets and these converters will need to be wired back to the electrical switchboard where a separate circuit breaker can be fitted. A qualified electrician should carry out this work.

Yes, any combination of 3 phase machinery may be connected to a Power Converter at the same time, provided the total power does not exceed the maximum rating of the converter. For example, two 5.5kw motors could simultaneously operate from one 11kw converter. (although if the loads are of a type that are hard to get started, it could be useful to ensure that both motors
do not try start at exactly the same time.) This is an important difference between rotary converters and electronic Variable Speed Drive’ systems where each motor requires a separate
controller unit.

Yes, The Phase Change Converter series has both European CE approval and Australian C-tick approval. All units comply with stringent Australian electrical safety standards.

Yes, The electronic control system continuously monitors the voltages between the 3-phase outputs and ensures that voltage of all three phases are within 5% of each other. The red LED
display on the side of the converter shows the present voltage balancing level from 0 to 8, so that this figure is an approximate reading of how hard the converter is working at any given
moment. It is important to note that the output of a converter unit is simply a direct conversion from the utility supply, so that if the supply voltage is low, then all three output phases of the
standard converter will fall by a corresponding voltage amount.

No, while running the converter will only produce a quiet fan noise from it’s pilot motor.

No. Because the three phase is generated using the rotary transformer method, the output waveform is clean and free of nearly all harmonics. This ensures that there is no impact on nearby radio or sound equipment. Unlike common ‘Variable Speed drives’ which create much noise and require special filters to operate them.