I recently fulfilled my dream of adding three-phase power to the Ultimate Reloader main shop with a Phase Perfect system from Phase Technologies. I’ve happy to announce I’ve also upgraded my rotary three-phase converter at the Ultimate Reloader mountain shop to a Phase Perfect and documented the effects!
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Systems
I’ve been running a rotary phase converter with a 20 horsepower idler motor at the mountain shop.
It is rated for an output of approximately 10 horsepower. I wanted to directly compare rotary to digital three-phase power, so I installed a PTE010.
The PTE010 is a 10 horsepower-rated Phase Perfect digital phase converter. If you want to learn more about digital conversion, be sure to check out the videos below.
I have two 10 amp subpanels in my mountain shop, with a main panel outside. A 10 horsepower system seemed like a good fit considering my existing loads and the fact that I don’t have any machinery over 10 motor horsepower.
The PTE010 converter fits flat against the side of the building and was incredibly easy to install.
We ran a single-phase circuit with two legs to supply the panel with a properly-sized breaker and appropriate current.
We also installed a rain hood overtop to protect it from the elements.
Rotary vs. Digital
I’ve always noticed lagging upon start-up of my Precision Matthews TL-1660 with 75-lb. chuck. It takes some time to get to full speed, which puts more stress and wear on the electrical motor. It takes 2.98 seconds to get up to speed using the rotary converter.
Sam Greer also pointed out that it is particularly important with high inertial loads (like a lathe) to have balanced voltages between the three phases. This aids in keeping all three windings of the motor pull together.
I ran the same start-up speed test once we upgraded the converter. Using the PTE010, it only took 2.33 seconds to get the TL-1660 up to speed. The TL-1660 isn’t the only lathe we have in the mountain shop. An upgraded PM-1340GT also lives here. Using three-phase power provides an exceptional surface finish – surprising for a small, light machine.
In addition to gunsmithing equipment, I’ve converted part of the mountain shop into a dedicated wood shop. I use the shaper more than anything. It is in the five horsepower range, so three-phase is a must.
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.
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
