3 phase power and VFD's..who knows about them?

[southernxpress]

I picked up a machine that has a 3 phase motor and I have 220 at my house. I do not want to run a static or rotory phase converter, but looking to run a variable frequency drive. Im trying to figure out how to size it to the motor and amps.. if anyone if familiar with this and can help or point me in the right direction it would be much appreciated! Thank you!

[bonecollector]

Just size the vfd to the horsepower of the motor.

[southernxpress]

That's what I thought at first and then some others were telling me I need to double the size of VFD from the horse power and then I was told the same about the amps. I started to get a little confused as I'm not the most versed on those things. So I decided to post here and see other peoples expertise. Im not saying you are wrong I'm just stating what I have run into thus far and double checking.

I will mention too the machine doesn't run at a constant torque which I know they make different VFD's for those applications too.

[TOBY]

The rotary converters arent bad. My friend has used two for 20 years running a commercial band saw and grinder at the same time. WTH is a VFD anyway?

[Hoss50]

Variable Frequency Drive = VFD.

[bonecollector]

That's what I thought at first and then some others were telling me I need to double the size of VFD from the horse power and then I was told the same about the amps. I started to get a little confused as I'm not the most versed on those things. So I decided to post here and see other peoples expertise. Im not saying you are wrong I'm just stating what I have run into thus far and double checking.

I will mention too the machine doesn't run at a constant torque which I know they make different VFD's for those applications too.

We replace about 3 or 4 a yr and we always size them by horsepower of the motor.

[DesertBull]

If you are using a 3 phase motor with 220 single phase power you need to double the size of the VFD in most cases.

[mattys281]

I dont know anything about vfds but ive been running equipment off a rotary for about 10 years now at anywhere from 50 - 100 hours per month with no trouble at all. The one I bought had a chart that sized them by the hp of the machine, so I just bought what the chart said to get and it works great.

[PRDATR]

Size it to the HP. If it is going to be outside or in a hot environment size it to +50% of the HP. I have my guys install or change out 10-15 a year for customers and also do new install in HVAC for Air Handler Fans and pumps. Just ordered two 10HP's today, with bypasses.

I won't install anything other than ABB. The local rep here in Phoenix has been supporting us for 20 years and that includes service calls just about 24/7. Heck I called him a year or so ago with a programming question and he answered his phone while he was on vacation in Cabo.

 

You can email me at chris@csr-az.com with more details. It may take a day or so of me going back and forth but I will get you what you need to make a decision. Not to steal anyones thunder.

[bonecollector]

PRDATR you deal with Butch with Mechline?

[Hoss50]

We buy drives from butch occasionally for projects. I also rep schneider (square d) and can order drives from them.

 

Abb is a good drive.

[PRDATR]

Yup. SOB is legendary. Richard taught him well. I have two guys who have been through certification.

[PRDATR]

For the most part it really is a Ford vs Chebbie thing but it is all about the support. Chris is the epitomey of customer support, he really has a passion for what he does. A very rare quality to be envied.

[wildwoody]

Butch is the man, sounds like the question has been answered. Isn't this a great site.

[Hoss50]

Support is key for sure. That is the way I try to make myself better than my competition. I sell commercial hvac products. Alot of people have products that are pretty similar in price and quality. Service is they way to stand out.