Can 3 Phase Power Be Obtained From A Single Phase Source?
It is not possible to obtain 3 phase power from a single phase source by the use of transformer. Transformers can be used for changing 2 phase power or any other number of phases greater than one to any other number of phases including one. For example, you can use a transformer to change 2 phase to 3 phase, or even 6 phase, or 12 phase. Once power is down to single phase, it can no longer be changed back to multi-phase by use of transformers. There are limited methods for changing single phase to 3 phase. The more common are as follows: operate a 3 phase motor from a single phase power supply and take off 3 phase from the motor terminals. The power obtained by this method is about 20% of the nameplate rating on the motor. Also, the output voltages are approximately 10% to 20% unbalanced. However, this is a very economical way of obtaining 3 phase power from single phase. Other methods commonly employed are phase shifting devices such as reactors and capacitors. These devices work quit
