VFD or Static phase converter

[Energyman]

Working on a project that calls for a 3 phase motor, and I'm trying to wrap my head around the best setup. I've mostly dealt with single phase stuff for long now, so this is a bit of a old bit of an unexplored territory for me, my main question is whether to go with a VFD or a static phase converter, the motor is rated at 5HP and will mostly run steady loads.

Please any suggestions and insights appreciated

 

[shimmilou]

Hey Energyman,
With a phase converter there is no varying speed, and you would also need a contactor capable of handling high start current (whether you want to switch the single phase or the three phase), as well as a start stop control. With a VFD, everything is there including start, stop and speed controls, and the only concern is keeping the bus voltage high enough under load, considering only a single phase input, possibly needing to derate the drive. The VFD manufacturer could provide the best info on sizing them to run with a single phase input.
Just curious as to why it must be a three phase motor instead of a single phase, if only single phase power is available?

 

[Boardcertified]

Working on a project that calls for a 3 phase motor, and I'm trying to wrap my head around the best setup. I've mostly dealt with single phase stuff for long now, so this is a bit of a old bit of an unexplored territory for me, my main question is whether to go with a VFD or a static phase converter, the motor is rated at 5HP and will mostly run steady loads.

Please any suggestions and insights appreciated

I'd go with vdf because they're closer to the rated efficiency unlike the static one where they're 60 maybe 70%. Sure, they're cheaper, but on the long run I think they aren't the most cost effective option.

 

[laylapot]

Working on a project that calls for a 3 phase motor, and I'm trying to wrap my head around the best setup. I've mostly dealt with single phase stuff for long now, so this is a bit of a old bit of an unexplored territory for me, my main question is whether to go with a VFD or a static phase converter, the motor is rated at 5HP and will mostly run steady loads.

Please any suggestions and insights appreciated

Go with a VFD if you can so you'll be able to get better control and way more efficiency compared to a static converter.