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3 phase to single phase?

Matthew

Member
Joined
Sep 5, 2025
Messages
6
Hi,
I've been given some exceptionally good advice on here in the past and I'm hoping someone will help with my workshop move. Ive been in the same large space for many years and have ended up with 3 3 phase machines and now only have single phase.

Ive heard vfd's are the way to solve the problem? On the machines themselves they are as follows:
Hammer a3 planer thicknesser 4hp
Multico 2 head tenoner 6hp in total
Wadkin Brs1 spindle moulder 3hp

So, what's the best and simplest way to provide power to them? As its normally just me, I'd never ever use them at the same time.

Any ideas would be very welcome
Matthew
 
A rotary phase converter might be the simplest overall solution, but individual VFDs for each machine will give you more flexibility and speed control.
 
I run my Bridgeport on a phase converter. I have plugged in other machine tools, bandsaw etc. with no problems.
 
Hi,
Many thanks- ill have to look into a phase converter? Is it the same as a VFD?

I'm hoping to perhaps buy one large vfd and run the individual machines with individual frequency/speed controls? Or maybe each machine with an individual vfd?

At this stage I'm totally ignorant of the rotary phase converters? Maybe they will better suit my needs?
 
Hi,
I've been given some exceptionally good advice on here in the past and I'm hoping someone will help with my workshop move. Ive been in the same large space for many years and have ended up with 3 3 phase machines and now only have single phase.

Ive heard vfd's are the way to solve the problem? On the machines themselves they are as follows:
Hammer a3 planer thicknesser 4hp
Multico 2 head tenoner 6hp in total
Wadkin Brs1 spindle moulder 3hp

So, what's the best and simplest way to provide power to them? As its normally just me, I'd never ever use them at the same time.

Any ideas would be very welcome
Matthew
If you're only running one tool at a time, a rotary converter might feel like too much hassle. VFDs are compact, quiet, and do exactly what you need. Just double-check the horsepower ratings so you don't undersize them.
 
Thanks Sara - I think you're right.....I've pretty well decided that a digital phase converter is the way to go and am ordering a new one from JFK next week
 
Thanks Sara - I think you're right.....I've pretty well decided that a digital phase converter is the way to go and am ordering a new one from JFK next week
Its been over a month now, how did it go @Matthew , if you will, I would love an update
 
Thanks Sara - I think you're right.....I've pretty well decided that a digital phase converter is the way to go and am ordering a new one from JFK next week
Hello, what size machine are you running with it? and did you go with the model that needs wiring in?

I'm happy I stumbled on this thread. I've been thinking and researching on getting a dig phase converter
 
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