Before looking at phase converters in detail we ought to consider the alternatives: B.1. What are the alternatives to a phase converter ?
• Have three-phase power installed. • Move to somewhere with three-phase power. • Change the motors etc. to single-phase motors. • Install a variable speed drive (VSD / VFD). • Install a single to three-phase converter. B.1.1. Install three-phase from the line company (utility company) In many parts of the world three-phase power is installed everywhere and costs no more than single-phase to have connected. However for a mixture of economic reasons and because of industrial history this is not the case in the UK and some other countries such as the Republic of Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, and the United States. Nevertheless it is always worth contacting your local electricity company (“line company”) to ask whether three-phase can be installed to your premises and at what price. In the UK the utility companies will often charge connection fees of 10,000 or more, but it might be as low as 500 if you are lucky and are prepared to do all your own site work. Even getting an answer out
