- Joined
- Dec 31, 2010
- Messages
- 937
I was given a 15 HP 3 phase 440 Volt motor that has just been lying around for several years. If I were to try making a phase converter out of it what size capacitor would be required?
Let's start with the first hitch. Is the motor a 220/440 or just 440. You need the single phase voltage correct before you can get the proper voltage out, so you will want to start by making sure you can feed the motor with the right voltage for it.
if you google fitch williams there will be a variety of circuuit diagrams that will show up on hashing together RPC's, including one in the 15 HP range.
Walter
Hi WalterRay
Whoa! Hold on there!
It is not my intention or advise to try to talk you out of putting three phase power into your shop. Believe me, it was one of the best investments I have made.
I am only being the voice of reason here and advising that if you go ahead and build the unit, use proper procedures and make sure you "play safe"
Electricity can kill if used improperly, so be safe! That does not mean do not use it at all.
If you follow the Fitch Williams diagrams, you can build up a nice little RPC. Add a magnetic switch between the breaker and the RPC as a safety disconect and off you go. I built my RPC in a 3 phase load centre so that there was a space to put breakers for the different tools I would run. We powered much of a woodworking factory with that unit and it ran fantastic. The client that had me build that one, had it wired in by somebody else, and left out the Magnetic Switch. He sold the building and the new owner took over the RPC with the building. A year later, the power went out, and all the employees scrammed. Sooner or later the power came back on and the eventually one of the employees came back to do something and found the generator motor smoking away. They had the motor rewound, and put in the mag switch I had advised they do and the unit has run flawlessly ever since.
Yes I went with a PhaseMAXX when I powered up my own shop, I put in the 7TZ which is a 7-1/2 x 22 HP unit.
Yes I am sure you can take that 15HP motor, providing it is 220V, which you already have, and make up a very suitable RPC with it, that will power up all sorts of new toys for you. Just make sure you do it safely.
In this section of the forum, you will find the wiring diagram and pictures of my Set Up if you want to see how I powered my shop. http://www.hobby-machinist.com/show...to-3-Phase-using-PhaseMAXX-7TZ-Soft-Start-RPC
Walter
Sorry not sure, that is an old link and you will have to check with the admins to see if it was even carried over when they changed servers.Hi Walter
How can I open the link you posted above?
Thanks for you consideration