I’ve long been wanting three-phase power at the Ultimate Reloader main shop: Precision Rifle Concepts. Three-phase power exists just up the road, but to run it to my shop would cost nearly $40,000, not counting the panel and labor. In this video, Sam Greer from Phase Technologies helps me spec out and install a Phase Perfect system to bring greater efficiency to my shop.
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About Phase Technologies
Phase Perfect by Phase Technologies presents a modern way to get three-phase power without the drawbacks of traditional converters.
Phase Perfect is solid-state. This means no moving parts, low noise (quieter operation), and no wasted energy. It’s designed to work like true three-phase power, making it perfect for any shop setup.
Here’s why it stands out:
- Voltage stays balanced within 2%—better than most power companies provide.
- Minimal energy loss, even when idle (just a few hundred watts vs. thousands in a rotary converter).
- Powers multiple machines at once, just like utility-supplied three-phase.
- Compact, lightweight, and easy to install.
From Phase Technologies:
Every phase converter and VFD we sell is manufactured at our headquarters in Rapid City, South Dakota. At Phase, we understand no two installations are exactly the same and our manufacturing process reflects that.
We treat every order like a custom order, meaning every unit that leaves our facility is hand built, fully tested, and approved for installation. Most of the components such as PCB’s, wire assemblies, and enclosures are designed and built in-house. We keep our supply-chain short, and US-based whenever possible.
Because our focus is on providing customers what they need to get the job done, we are able to deliver custom solutions with off-the-shelf lead times. We strive to consistently deliver the shortest lead times in the industry.
Phase Technologies brings uncommon value to the industries we serve every day. Whether the requirements are phase conversion or a specific variable frequency drive solution, Phase Technologies’ USA-manufactured power electronics deliver.
Spec-Ing Out a System
When I first moved into this building, a single 200 amp panel was feeding the entire shop.
A second panel existed, but was not energized, presenting the perfect opportunity for three-phase! (If you are building a shop, I highly recommend ensuring a 400 amp service is available.)
We repaired the unused panel, pulled a permit, and got it energized before looking at our options.
There are two main approaches to spec-ing out a system: sizing to available power and sizing to loads. I decided to size to the available power to get as much out of the 200 amps I had available so I would not be limited in the future.
The PT030 performance fit the bill, needing 160 amps of steady state input to produce 95 amps of steady state three-phase output. (It’s important not to completely fill a panel.)
Phase Technologies includes a motor startup graph in the back of each owner’s manual. These graphs show capacity considerations for the PT030/PT040 upon startup. This graph reveals that the 95 amp rated PT030 will source 350 amps for a second upon startup.
Knowing your loads and current draw upon startup can help you size a Phase Perfect product, particularly if you are on the margin. Sam explained that this is the primary difference between their digital phase converter and a variable frequency drive. A variable frequency drive is typically sized to a tight margin, but it is possible to across the line start a motor on the output of the Phase Perfect. This means massive IGBTs and current handling capacity built in!
If you need help understanding what system is best for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Phase Perfect team. (Don’t forget to reference Ultimate Reloader for a free extra year warranty!)
System Installation and Testing
With the help of another person, I lifted the PT030 and hung it outside next to the back of the newly-energized panel.
Installation was very simple. Two conductors lead into the breaker disconnect. There are two grounds and three phases out.
This box connects to a three-phase panel we hung indoors. This panel has three legs coming in and a ground. From here it is like wiring any other three-phase panel.
Right now my panel is a bit overkill, but I like to plan for the future, leaving room for anything I may want to add.
To test the system, I turned it on, checked the circuit for my 1942 Kearney and Trecker horizontal mill, and went to work.
This vintage lathe is extremely versatile and performed well on the three phase power it was built for.
Conclusion
If you need reliable three-phase power without the noise, inefficiency, and bulk of rotary converters, Phase Perfect is the way to go. It’s the closest thing to having utility-supplied three-phase power—without the massive installation cost. If I ever decide to move shop locations, I could also take the panel and PT030 with me.
Bonus: Get an Extra Year of Warranty!
If you decide to go with Phase Perfect, mention Ultimate Reloader when you buy, and you’ll get an extra year of warranty coverage—for free!
Check out Phase Technologies for product details and expert consultation. Got questions about phase conversion? Drop them in the comments—we’d love to hear about your setup!
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Thanks,
Gavin Gear
