Single Phase to Three Phase Converter

Question

Hi All 
 Asking if anyone knows of any suitable equipment to convert a 230VAC (One Phase Three Wire) domestic supply ( via standard socket outlet) to 400VAC (Three phase Four Wire) supply for use with resistive only equipment. I am planning on building a small demonstration switchboard and want to construct and wire as a typical 400V TP&N assembly, to demonstrate energy monitoring hardware via a few TP&N supplies. 
 So far I can find similar converters bit most advise these are for use with 3 phase asynchronous motors only 
 Thanks in anticipation 
 
 Neil W

broadgage · Accepted Answer

Most such converters rely on the inductance of the motor windings for proper operation, they wont work with a resistive load. Also, 3 phase motors are very tolerant of poor supply voltages and will often give acceptable service with unbalanced voltages and incorrect phase angles, the motor may need to be oversized relative to the mechanical load to avoid overheating. 
 Most such converters produce three phase THREE wire without a neutral, and with about 230 volts between phases, not 400 volts between phases as would be obtained from a standard UK mains supply. 
 
 To obtain a good simulation of a true three phase, 4 wire mains supply may need a 3 phase generator, driven by a single phase motor. The generator wont "know" that it is being driven by an electric motor rather than by a petrol or diesel engine. 
 It is also possible to obtain 3 phase supply from a bank of three single phase inverters under common control, this is done in premises without utility service. These inverters require DC input at 12 volts, 24 volts, or 48 volts nominal, or less commonly at 110/120 volts dc. 
 Both the above are expensive and complex. 
 BTW, the standard uk supply at 230 volts for domestic and similar purposes is called single phase 2 wire. Single phase 3 wire implies a centre tapped supply as used in the USA at 120/240 volts.

Roger B · Answer

Have you looked at Transwave? 
 Transwave - Home

Single Phase to Three Phase Converter

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