Shifting from a three-phase to a single-phase power system is a commonplace need. It is because a single-phase load is relatively lower than a three-phase. For example, power for household use is the 3phase to single-phase type. Most home appliances use low power, which makes the single-phase the feasible option.
You can opt to remain with three-phase power, which is only helpful in running heavy machinery. Therefore, if you intend to meet the typical household uses, a single-phase is a reasonable alternative. You can quickly achieve this by having the right equipment.
If you have such a need, read on.
3phase to Single-phase –What is Three-phase Power?
Figure1: A 3 phase Power Supply System
Three-phase power is AC carried by three live wires and one neutral. All the phases have the same voltage and amplitude, set at a phase difference of 120 degrees. Most people use Three-phase power for industrial purposes as its carries a larger volume of current.
3phase to Single-phase –What is Single-phase Power?
Figure 2: A Single-phase Power Supply System
When one single live wire and a neutral are used to carry current, this is a single-phase system. Therefore, only one wire has current, unlike in a three-phase with three wires.
Is 3 Phase Better Than the Single Phase?
Figure 3: 3 Phase Electricity Lines
When considering the volumes of power loads, the three-phase is better than the single-phase. The three-phase guarantees a stable supply of power at a constant rate. It is not the case for the single-phase system. It is prone to experiencing dips and peaks and thus unfavorable for commercial use.
Also, a three-phase system will supply more power than a single-phase system. A three-phase can provide thrice what a single phase can offer.
Even though the three-phase system uses three wires while the single-phase uses two, the former uses lesser conductor material. For instance, to transmit 120V of power, a single-phase will require more conductor material than a three-phase.
There are instances when a single phase is better than the three phases, especially when considering the use of the power. An individual who only wants the ability to use his household appliances will need single-phase power. Thus, it might be necessary to shift from the superior three-phase power system for such household uses. It is the rationale for converting three-phase to single-phase.
3phase to Single-phase –How to Convert Single-phase to Three-phase
Figure 4: A Technician Repairing a Power Supply Line.
As highlighted above, sometimes, it is necessary to convert a three-phase to a single phase. If that is your cardinal concern, there are several means of shifting three-phase into an easier-to-use power form. You need to have the right equipment. Every transformation system is unique, but its cardinal aim is to convert power to the same format. Nonetheless, some are more accurate and effective than others. Therefore, you need to pick the one that best fits your needs.
Among the most common ways include:
Use a Neutral Wire
Figure5: A Simple Electrical Circuit
It is the most common and accessible means of conversion and is ineffective in giving the desired current. You, therefore, need to be careful when doing it. You need to ignore two phases out of the three live wires to use it. You then use a single-phase with a neutral wire, making it a single-phase system.
Nonetheless, it is not a too accurate technique. It is advisable to use only when you do not require a stable and precise power supply. Otherwise, it’s one of the simplest ways of conversion. Also, unlike other conversion techniques, you do not need to invest in any converting device.
Use a Phase Converter
Figure 6: A Phase Converter Unit
A professional would advise using a phase converter instead of a neutral wire. This technique is more effective in giving a real conversation than the unbiased wire method. All you need is an electronic converter that first converts the AC to DC. A phase converter can then convert this current to a single-phase AC.
The technique is straightforward; you require a rectifier and are ready.
3phase to single-phase –Use a Single Phase Transformer
Figure 7: An Illustration of a Single-phase Transformer.
As shown above, you do not necessarily have to go through the hassle of converting power to DC and back to AC. When you invest in a suitable transformer, you can quickly realize the desired outcome.
However, this method only applies when dealing with power less than 5 KVA. For higher power, it would be imperative to use another technique.
Use the Open Delta Transformer
Figure 8: A Simple Transformer Silhouette
It is the ideal technique for converting more than 5 KVA three-phase power to a single phase. This transformer is powerful and well-built to facilitate high power conversions.
3phase to single-phase –Use the Le-Blanc Transformers
Figure 9: Side View of a Simple Transformer Silhouette
It is the ideal machine for converting high power, such as currents above 5 KVA and 400 V. The primary upside of this transformer is that it guarantees accurate conversions. Some devices are sensitive to the accuracy of the currency, and this is the best converter for such systems.
Use the Scott T Transformers
This type ranks among the best in the list of powerful transformers fit for converting three-phase to single-phase. It features a unique form of connection that mainly involves a teaser transformer and the main transformer. The two transformers work together to realize the conversion from three-phase to single-phase.
One of the key advantages of these transformers is that it produces a balanced current. It is thus perfectly fit for systems that need a single-phase proportional current.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, some situations may necessitate the conversion of three-phase to single-phase. For instance, a single-phase is imperative to use power for household uses. You can achieve this by using the above-highlighted ways. Also, visit our site for deeper insights on how to convert three-phase to single-phase successfully. We have the necessary equipment to assist you in achieving the best results.
