Power and Phase Converters Key Terms

Get acquainted with technical terms associated with power and phase converters

Power and phase converters are important electrical devices in the manufacturing and processing industries. These devices convert electrical power from one form to another, such as changing voltage or current characteristics as per the application requirements.

While interacting with the suppliers of power and phase converters, you will come across various technical terms that indicate types, specifications and technologies for these devices. This guide will help you understand technical terms, including digital phase converters, transformers and inverters.

 

Electricity phases

For any AC current, electricity phases are important characteristics. Generally, electric power suppliers use a single phase or three-phase system for transmitting electrical power.
Try: To learn the basics of electricity phases, read through the description at Power To Go, a supplier of generators.

Single or three-phase power

A single-phase power system uses only one phase of electricity and there is only one alternating voltage. A three-phase system uses three wires for three different phases. A three-phase system has three alternate voltage peaks after a phase lag of 120 electrical degrees. Industrial power suppliers use a three-phase power system, as it has smooth wave form and improves the durability of electrical machinery.
Try: E-Rate Central provides definitions for various electrical terms, such as single phase and three phase.

Phase conversion

Three-phase power has many benefits, however, procuring three-phase electricity supply is expensive. Phase conversion is the process of converting single-phase electricity supply to three-phase electricity supply.
Try: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) provides the definition for this term. In addition, you can read through an informative document at Metal Web News (PDF), an online information resource.

Digital phase converters

A digital phase converter is a phase converter that utilizes microprocessors and software to achieve a phase conversion.
Try: PhaseConverterInfo.com provides information about these types of phase converters.

Transformers

A transformer is a device that converts electricity supply from one voltage to another. Uses of transformers vary from safety and efficiency, to interoperability across different voltage supplies.
Try: You can learn the basics of transformers at Electrical Construction & Maintenance, a technical resource for the electrical industry professionals.

Inverters

An inverter is an electrical instrument that converts direct current into alternating current. An inverter is used to run an electrical appliance on batteries and provide uninterrupted power supply in the event of electricity failure.
Try: For the definition of this term, read through the glossary at ETA Engineering. You can learn more about various types of inverters at Best Buy Solar, a provider of solar energy solutions.

VFD (Variable Frequency Drive)

VFD is electronic equipment that allows an electric motor to run at varying rotational speeds. It is frequently used to start large capacity three-phase AC synchronous motors.
Try: To understand the basics of VFD, read through the description at Natural Resources Canada.

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