Phase Converter Recommendations?

[superj7777]

Does anyone currently use a phase converter they can recommend? I was spoiled at my old shop, we had 3-phase power.

I assume I want a CNC grade phase converter for laser use?

Thanks in advance!

[300EVIL]

Generally you want to use a rotary phase converter for a laser because you are feeding a transformer. What kind/model of laser are we talkin here?

[superj7777]

Right now I only have an older SP argon that pulls about 30 amps. I've been trying to find a converter that can supply about 40 amps (or is the old 1.3X's your needed current not applicable here?)

Have you used any particualr brand you can recomend? Or are they all pretty much the same?

Thanks in advance

[300EVIL]

Sounds like a 15-20HP would work. The commercial units are pretty much all the same but you can build one on the cheap. I built my own this way.... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOPFdFgfH6E

[superj7777]

I was thinking of doing that, seems pretty simple. Since a laser doesn't draw anywhere near the L.R.A. a motor or compressor does at startup, did you use any caps?

Thanks again for you help,
Jason

[300EVIL]

No, Just used a 1HP single phase motor and the right pulley arrangement.