How to Run a 3 Phase Machine with Single Phase Power with a AC Drive including VFD Installation

In this video we cover one of the popular ways to run a 3 phase machine when you only have single phase power such as you have at your house. We go through identifying the motor size and voltage and how to tie into the machines existing wiring. Also check out this 100 year old shaper. She's a real beauty.

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[TimWilborne]

Several people have pointed out a few corrections to this video.

My guess on the motor rotation was wrong and I had it running backwards. It should be faster on the retract than the extend.

Also my dad was standing by a planer, not a shaper. On a shaper the tool moves and the part of stationery. On a planer the part moves and the tool is stationary.

Thanks to everyone for their input!

[cayankeelord]

Nicely done! I've been an IBEW electrician for 40+ years. You presented and explained each step in a clear, concise manner. VFD's are game changers for sure. So many options to utilize if you want or need to.

[sUASNews]

To make the old machine run, that is a very noble reason, hats off to you sir, hats off.

[marshal]

Great Video, I work in industrial maintenance for many many years wiring up motors and starters from 120-600vac and when I do any conversions I always check rotation, mark wire locations, check voltage, note and photograph all connections before I take anything apart. Some Machines will not take the slightest wrong rotation even bumping resulting in damage to the equipment. That's just my doings. And for VFD's I learned you should always setup the parameters before you ever hit the start button. That's just me though.

[LiftArcStudios]

Amazing seeing this thing up and running. We were sad to see it leave the shop but knew it would be in good hands with Larry! - Tay

[wauzdancer]

Calling these tools of my day old, confirmed I am old reaching my expiration date..
Good info on getting 3 phase from a single phase power source.

[jordanreed]

Very seldom do I ever leave comments on YouTube but this was super informative and helpful! Thank you.

[joew]

I swear every time I search for a video you’re #1. I’m looking for a cheap motor to pair with my training plc and vfd. I see one at Harbor Freight for $164. It’s only 1 phase though I kinda want 3 phase in order to maximize training

[shirwilbo]

Neat video. Thanks for taking me into the shop.

[shamanking]

I red once that if you run an old motor using a VFD there is a chance to damage the motor because old motors when the coils were insulated, very often had small tiny little air bubbles, these air bubbles over time can create an ark ( corona effect ) that damages the motor wiring, therefore shorten the life of the motor.
vfd can make the motor run hotter if motor is not vfd rated; today's motors are dipped and put in a vacuum chamber to remove any possible air pockets or bubbles.
excellent video Tim.
Thanks.

[shaneschuller]

I agree it is a classic, and classic is beautiful

[dennisjiu]

Incredible video ! Deep dive for single phase, three phases, VFD, motor, starter, grounding etc. One question pumps up to my mind: The start and stop pushbuttons are sinking inputs for the VFD? Thank you very much. TIm.

[BA-xjew]

Thanks for making this. Enjoyed your video.

[metalillness]

Shaper is wired in reverse, don't let that go. Dad is at a planer, good photo. Thanks keep the video's coming!

[miheadhurts]

I'd prefer to watch this machine at work than watch the TV. Good work it keeping it going.

[niclove]

Really smart guy! Thanks for the details! Details matter on videos like this.

[ishukaushikvideo]

Hello sir getting good information from your video ... actually i am electronic engineer and doing vfd repair of 1 ke to 1000 ke at component level so have any job in London for this profile..i can repair all make and vfd installation at so many applications

[beretta]

This is a great Vlog. Could have been 45mins covering more of the VFD. People VFDs are truly a blessing, accept for Rockw**l. You can pick up a VFD from G*lco for $100-350. If you have time wiring in to your House panel and you have patients, you can figure this out. You don't know how many times I've called out … and find the build / Data plate has either been; painted over, rubbed or scratched up. That tells me; Someone is wiring up, praying as they energizes....people please, protect your motor data plates like you would your family. One more suggestion...invest in a Brady BMP21 (Kit) use: M21-750-499 3/4" labels...and label your wires for the next guy.

P.S. not a bad idea to check and see if there is an In/p torque on the VFD Leg and motor screws. Especially the unit / motor lugs... tighten your wires down

[thedestructorshorts]

Im running three phase 3hp motor with an inverter from single phase 230v to three phase 230v what are the losses in motor? Does it still.produce 3hp?

[madsers]

Hey Tim, great video! Awesome machine.
I have an old General 360 Table Saw (Drummondville make) and it's currently 3 phase. I only have single phase in my shop...would I be able to use one of these to run it on our single phase power? :)