CHECK OUT FAQ's OR CALL RONK: 1-800-221-7665
What is the ADD-A-PHASE power converter?
It is a static converter capable of producing symmetrical three-phase
currents from a single-phase source. The name, ADD-A-PHASE, implies a
phase is added to the already present single-phase. This is true - and
is accomplished by an autotransformer and B capacitor bank along with
the motor's Impedance. Through this combination a third phase is
Introduced whose relation to the other two comprises symmetrical
three-phase. The motor can then be made to operate as If it were
connected to a three-phase power line.
How does the ADD-A-PHASE differ from the POWER-TWIN UNIVERSAL and FARMPOWER units?
The ADD-A-PHASE is designed to operate any make of three-phase motor.
The POWER-TWIN UNIVERSAL or FARMPOWR on the other hand, consist of a
special polyphase motor and specially designed converter, and they must
be operated together.
What horsepower ratings are available with the ADD-A-PHASE?
Standard types are available from 1 through 100 HP. Units up to 15OHP
have been constructed. Where high horsepower loads are to be operated
the power supplier should be constructed to determine that the
single-phase line capacity is sufficient to carry the load.
What are typical applications?
The ADD-A-PHASE has been successfully applied to operate motors on many
different kinds of equipment Some of the principle applications are
pumps, fans, valve actuator, oil pump jacks, and piston type
compressors.
What motor speeds can be satisfactorily operated with the standard ADD-A-PHASE, Type 2S?
Speeds of 3600 and 1800 can be operated from the standard units. For
speeds below 1200 RPM, the PHASE-SHIFTER may be a better choice,
depending on the motor's power factor.
Are special models of the ADD-A-PHASE available?
Yes. Consult the factory for details. Our engineers are always willing
to work on problems arising from specialized applications.
Is the ADD-A-PHASE available for 120 volt operation?
Yes. However, the 120 volt converter is not a standard production item
do to limited demand. The factory should be consulted for prices and
delivery.
Is the ADD-A-PHASE available for 50 cycle, as well as 60 cycle?
Yes. The basic ADD-A-PHASE types are designed for 60 cycle, but 50
cycle units are available. Again, consult the factory for prices and
delivery.
Is the ADD-A-PHASE available for 450 volt or 575 volt operation?
Yes. The units for 480 volt are cataloged but the factory should be consulted for 575 volt operation.
Can the ADD-A-PHASE operate an air conditioner?
Yes. Mast air conditioners can be operated with the Type 2SAC. Note any
additional three-phase motors, like evaporator fan motors.
Multi-motor ADD-A-PHASE units will be required for these systems.
Can the ADD-A-PHASE be applied to submersible pumps?
Yes. It is necessary to check the full load amp rating of the motor. If
the FLA of the submersible's motor is higher than a standard NEMA
motors FLA of the equivalent horsepower, the Type 'SUB' should be used.
Can 480 volt three-phase motors be operated from a 240 volt single-phase line?
Because of voltage drop, wiring size, starter size, etc., it may be
desirable to operate large motors, submersible pumps, etc., at 480
volts when only 240 volt single-phase is available: the Type '7
ADD-A-PHASE is designed for these applications. Other special voltages
are also available such as 240 lr'4208 out. Consult the factory for
pricing and specifics.
How doe, the ADD-A-PHASE benefit the utility?
The ADD-A-PHASE draws close to unity power factor while the motor is
starting and running, resulting in lower line current and lower looses
in line voltage. The inrush current of the ADD-A-PHASE arid three-phase
motor is only 3 to 4 times the running current
Will a three-chase motor produce 100% rated cower when operated through the ADD-A-PHASE?
Yes. Th. ADD-A-PHASE is the only static converter for which this is
possible due to its autotransformer design. in fact, continuous
overload (service factor) operation is available that equals the
permissible overload of the average three-phase motor (1.15). Note:
while this operation is possible, some motor manufacturers (notably
submersible, pump motor manufacturers) may not warranty their motors if
it is operated into it. Service factor range while powered by a phase
converter. In practice, it is best to avoid service factor operation if
possible to assure normal life expectancy of equipment
Can the ADO-A-PHASE be used to operate a motor larger than the retina @1 the converter?
It Is not recommended, however, there may be applications where the toad of the motor is reduced and within the rating of the converter.
Extreme caution should be observed, and is advisable to contact the factory before attempting such an operation.
Can the ADO-A-PHASE operate smaller motors than the rating of the converter?
Yes. The design of the autotransformer converter permits a smaller motor to be operated with capacitor adjustments.
Can more than one motor be operated from an independent ADD-A-PHASE?
The DUO ADD-A-PHASE Is designed specifically far independent or
simultaneous operation of two motors. Special models are also available
far other multiple motor applications. Consult the factory for ~
Can two speed motors be operated satisfactorily?
RONK offers converters to operate two-speed application. The DUO
ADD-A-PHASE or Auto Adjust ADD-A-PHASE can be used far some two-speed
motors. Consult the factory for recommendation.
Is the ADD-A-PHASE available for outdoor installations as well as Indoor?
Although the ADD-A-PHASE is primarily designed for indoor installation, the louvered enclosure is drip proof and may be mounted
Can the ADD-A-PHASE be installed and operated in demo underground locations?
Yes. An exempt would be the many satisfactory applications in underground sewage lift stations.
Is the ADD-A-PHASE available in an explosion-proof enclosure?
No. Normal heat rise of components requires sufficient cooling, one of
the factors, which has made the explosion-prod case Impractical.
What is the life expectancy of the ADD-A-PHASE?
The components selected and manufactured for the ADD-A-PHASE have a
life comparable to that of the average three-phase motor. This long
life and reduced maintenance is one of the many advantages of the
ADD-A-PHASE over the conventional single-phase motor.
What is the availability of the ADD-A-PHASE?
Distributors are located throughout the United States. and Canada. Most ADD-A-PHASE types are available from these distributors within a week (plus shipping time), except special application type, which may require slightly longer.
What is the need and availability of replacement parts?
The ADD-A-PHASE, being a static device with only a few moving parts, is
relatively free of maintenance. Should replacement parts be necessary,
immediate shipment can be made from factory stocks, or they can be
readily acquired from local source.
What is the warranty of the ADD-A-PHASE?
The ADD-A-PHASE is warranted to be free from defects in material and
workmanship under normal use and service for a period of one year from
date of Installation or 18 months from original date of shipment. A
postpaid warranty validation card is supplied with each unit, which must be filled out and returned to the factory within 15 days of Installation to validate warranty.
TECHNICAL
What is the power factor during starting?
The power factor will be very high during starting, near unity. The
ADD-A-PHASE draws a reduced starting current during stalling due to the
capacitance built kilo the converter. Due to this, starting KVA Is
approximately 1/2 that of the 3-phase across-the-Iine starting.
What is the power factor when the three-phase motor is started with no load from the ADD-A-PHASE?
Independent laboratory studies rate the power factor of the converter
at almost unity on the single-phase line. This feature is extreme
importance and advantage to both the power supplier and user. On the
other hand, repulsion-Induction single-phase motors have a power factor
range of only 60 to 80%.
How close can the current be balanced?
On a constant load application, balance can be effected as close as
that of the three-phase motor operating from a three-phase line.
Are currents in balance under all conditions, particularly where a swinging load is encountered as with oil pumping?
No. Swinging load condition, necessitate the phase being balanced on
Installation for the maximum load. Where the load is reduced due to
swinging, the unbalance should be disregarded insofar as none of the
phases carries a current exceeding the nameplate rating. Minimal loss
of efficiency is normally encountered.