How to convert 3 phase welder to a single-phase? This question has an answer of some simple steps, but before doing that, you need to know the background. A single-phase welder is commonly used in homes or small businesses because it’s pretty inexpensive and easy to install. However, when it comes to large companies with more significant needs, they require a 3 phase power supply because of its efficiency.
What if you have only got a 3 phase welder but, you need to run a single phase operated machine? That is when the need to convert it!
What is a Single Phase Welder?
A single-phase welder or a 1-phase welder operates on an AC circuit with two wires. One wire is the power wire (1 phase), and the other is the neutral wire. So, the current flows between the neutral and the power wire. The 220V power outlet you use in your home has two wires combined to generate twice the voltage from the 110V outlet. This is because most of the houses have a standard AC outlet rated at 110 Volts.
As the machinery in homes or small businesses do not require a high power supply, single-phase power supplies are all that is needed. For example, a Single-phase welder can run motors up to 5 horsepower, it draws more current than an equivalent 3 phase motor; putting extra load on machine. So, a 3 phase power supply is a good choice for industrial requirements due to its efficiency in managing the load for industrial applications.
What is a 3 Phase Welder?
A 3 phase welder is an AC circuit with three-phase wires and one neutral wire. A three-phase welder can transmit three times the power as compared to a single-phase welder. A three-phase power supply/welder has three 220V power wires, providing three alternating currents. That is why the current produced by a 3-phase welder is constant because it always has an alternative phase to deliver the power.
A three phase welder is commonly used at the industrial level, at manufacturing sites or other enterprise scale businesses due to its efficiency.
Considerations before Converting a 3 Phase Welder to a Single Phase
Before starting to convert a 3 phase welder to a single phase, it would be best if you considered these factors.
- Read all the instructions carefully.
- Ensure you understand them completely
- Turn off the main breaker.
- Inform everyone around you not to turn on the circuit
What you’ll Need?
- Rubber High Voltage Gloves
- Rubber-Handled Tools
- Welding Tool Bag to Store a Variety of Items
- A Neutral Wire
- Devices: Variable Frequency Drive/Rotary Phase Converter/Transformer
Steps to Convert 3 Phase Welder to Single Phase
To do the conversion, you can use the following methods/devices.
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By using a Neutral Wire:
Just use the neutral wire, and the other 2 phases in a three-phase supply can easily convert the system. This method is suitable if your supply does not require a high-level accuracy. Using a neutral wire might not be as accurate as other methods to do it with other devices but in most cases, it works.
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Using a Variable Frequency Drive
If your welder is a high-end, industrial-level machine, then you can use a variable frequency drive. If the amps of your welder and the ratings of variable frequency drive matches, just connect it with your welder and it will do the rest.
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Using a Phase Converter
Well, you can easily convert your 3 phase welder to a single-phase by using a phase converter also. As it can be directly wired to any motor you want to convert. To do this,
- Run two wires from motor to the converter
- Then from the converter to your power supply
- Attach the inputs to outputs using two wires with stripped ends to convert
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Using a Transformer
Using a transformer is quite tricky if you are not a professional. Therefore, I would recommend you to take the assistance of a professional before trying this method.
Every 3-phase welder has three inductors connected with three supplies. In other words, your welder has 3 phase wires and one neutral wire. Now, to convert, follow these steps.
- Identify three coils in three inductors of your welder
- Make sure that 1st coil must be on 0 phase, 2nd coil on 90 phase and 3rd coil shall be on 180 phase
- Connect with mainline
- Attach two capacitors between 3 coils to convert
FAQ’s
a) Are Phase Converters Any Good?
Rotary phase converters are very efficient when it comes to providing a balanced power. This makes phase converters preferable to other motors that are used to control machinery loads. If your welder is designed for industrial use, we suggest using a rotary phase converter to avoid any problems.
b) Can I Use A Single Phase Welder On A Single Phase?
It might get started but then switch to the single-phase after your device (i.e., the motor) gets running. The welder will start working on a single phase with a reduced capacity, but the arc might not be good.
c) What are the advantages of 3 phase over 1 phase?
A three-phase system generates power at a constant rate. Therefore, it can transmit more power when compared to a single-phase system. Moreover, 3-phase operated machines are less expensive and efficient than single-phase operated machines.
Final Words
So now, you can try your preferred method to convert a 3 phase welder to single phase. I have tried to provide you the best possible and practical solutions that will help you converting without any hassle. However, if you don’t get the point or have any confusions about doing it; consult a professional.
I would recommend you to read the complete guide at least two times and examine your welder to get a better understanding. This will help you deciding which method to use and how to do it. If you have any questions, please post it in the comment section below.