How to Convert Single Phase to 3 Phase and Use Three Phase Tools at Home

All you need is a variable frequency drive to convert 1 phase to 3 phase. This took me under a day to do and you only need basic DIY tools. There are other options like a rotary phase converter or changing the motor but for most machines a VFD is the easy and gives you lots of extra functions. In this how-to I used a brake resistor to improve the sander so it stopped quickly.
#tools #VFD #3phase
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[@MaltandMake]

Thanks to Al (AlsHackShack), Brett (Skull&Spade) and Steve (Moonshine Metalworks), who make up the Fools With Tools, for their cameo! Links to their channels below:

[@MaltandMake]

Al - kzbin.info/door/u9l1hjGyTswU3-yY2DupIQ Brett - kzbin.info/door/PqU-cg2Ko_Q1Q0SamoZt4w Steve - kzbin.info/door/pk3PaOb-CV4vzRwXHZK4Hw The Fools With Tools Podcast - fwtpodcast.com/

[@jakekot1351]

Good sense of humor without being a fool. Wish KZbin was around when I was in operation decades back. Many 3 phase machines passed or just sitting. Back then it was $5 a HP for used motors, tons in scrap yards in a small metro area. Days long gone by not to return.

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks! I bet there was a lot of interesting kit!

[@jamiereader]

That was absolutely brilliant! Thank you for the humour and the tutorial underneath it.

[@MaltandMake]

You're welcome, thanks for watching!

[@Everythings_Adjustable]

A really excellent video James (and great looking workshop) 👍 👍

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks, it's a great space to have!

[@WhitehallPottery]

Wow, I was actually surprisingly able to understand that and I suck at electronics. Nice work!

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks! Once you understand the idea it's pretty close to plug and play.

[@BearTechTools]

That was actually a great video. You deserve more subs!

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks, that's a great thing to hear. Hopefully people sharing this video will help!

[@tinkeringrocks]

James this is an amazing, informative, funny video. Thank you❤️

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks for the kind words Sean, glad you enjoyed it!

[@RedSmithWorkshop]

Funny, interesting and smart. Great video James!

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks Red!

[@ManCrafting]

How do you have time to make a video Doctor? James this was a fantastic video. Fun approach to a dry subject.

[@MaltandMake]

I don't! Past me did though. I think I filmed this about a month ago and have only just finished editing it!

[@ManCrafting]

Malt & Make great job. Really enjoyed the edit. See you in August possibly.

[@randyrodriguez4643]

Great to see content from you again. Stay safe out there!

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks, it's good to be back!

[@davidsinnot]

Would that work on a panel saw that has a scoring blade aswell

[@MaltandMake]

The scoring blade on my saw is run with a belt and pulleys from the main motor. So if your panel saw is the same then yes it would. If there's more than 1 motor then you'd need 2 VFDs.

[@davidsinnot]

Thanks for that be probably easier to buy a 3 phase converter instead.

[@k.hussain360]

Good video mate, and you have a really nice set up.

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks, it's a really great space to have!

[@k.hussain360]

@@MaltandMake I can only imagine what it would be like to have a space like that. Doesn't help that Facebook Marketplace keeps teasing me with some of the machines I really want lol.

[@qwertyui90qwertyui90]

How about when you have a generator connectred to a diesel engine ( genset ) and the output is 3 phase from the generator.... Can we rewire the output of the genset to be single phase please ? WITHOUT rewiring the coils...

[@MaltandMake]

That's a little outside my area of expertise, sorry.

[@whazee]

That was bloody hilarious all the way through! And especially the ending! 😂

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks, it was a fun one to make... I love the ending too!

[@chrisbarrett7962]

Great vid,very informative. I notice you using a horizontal bandsaw in the video, is that also running on a vfd? I’ve recently acquired a 3 phase pull down bandsaw with a 2 speed motor and suds pump and am trying to figure out the best option to run it on single phase 240v. If you have any experience I’d be very interested! Thanks

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks! Yes, good spot. I've got a VFD on the horizontal bandsaw. Luckily the coolant pump runs off a transformer which had an input for 240V so the wiring was very simple. Unplug your machine and have a look at how the wiring is setup, you might have the same. Otherwise, the worst case is that you'd have to replace both motors - I think I had to swap out the 2 speed, main motor on mine. I was able to sell it to cover some of the costs but having variable speed control is really useful so it would have been worth the cost either way for me.

[@michaeltaylor7783]

would this be suitable for a sliding panel saw with a seperate scoring blade with it's own motor?

[@MaltandMake]

@@michaeltaylor7783 Hi, can you post this as a separate comment rather than a reply - that way people in a similar situation will be able to see it.

[@chrisbarrett7962]

Thanks for your reply, I looked at the wiring and the suds pump is 240v, so the vfd could have been an option as you say, although I think I would have to change the main drive motor. Luckily for me I sourced a second hand rotary phase converter very cheaply which runs all the motors on my saw and I can use the 2 speed original motor without any problems. If I hadn’t of found the rotary phase converter at a price I couldn’t refuse I’m sure a vfd would have been the next best option.

[@Lou-jf4rl]

"Big spinny thing" lol very technical jargon.

[@MaltandMake]

Wording is hard 😂

[@michaeltaylor7783]

would this be suitable for a sliding panel saw with a scoring blade with it's own motor ? great video really informative

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks! I think it should work but you'll want to check how the machine is wired. If the main motor and the scoring blade motor are both 3 phase and the same voltage then you should be fine. In terms of dust protection, look for an Ingress Protection or IP rating with a 5 or 6 in the first number. I'd suggest an IP66 rated enclosure. I've bought all my drives from InveterDrive.com and you can sort by 'protection' on their site. In terms of brand, I've used WEG and Invertek.

[@michaeltaylor7783]

would this work for powering a sliding panel saw mate. also what vfd are you using the one for outside the machine the one that won't get dust in it. thanks

[@MaltandMake]

It should do but depends on the wiring - you might need to remove some parts to make sure the output of the VFD goes straight to the motor/motors. If you do have separate motors just make sure they are both the same voltage and both 3 phase. In terms of dust, you'll want to look for a unit with an IP rating of 5x or 6x (with X being any other number). Generally that means an IP54 up to IP66 rated enclosure. InverterDrive.com is where I have bought all my VFDs and you can filter by 'Protection'. The drives I've bought are either WEG or Invertek.

[@leeruddock3933]

Can I use a 16A 415v catering cooker with any of these methods

[@MaltandMake]

Hi, sorry for not replying sooner. Not with a VFD, they work for things that spin and have a dual voltage motor. The issue with a cooker is that the control hardware won't work if it doesn't get the right voltage. The cooker itself might work on the lower voltage but wouldn't get as hot. A phase converter (Clarke make one) might work but whatever you use you'll need more than 16A to run it... probably a 32A supply.

[@shamanking5195]

Hi. did you increase the vfd size for each motor ???

[@MaltandMake]

You should size the VFD for the motor that you have. So a 1.1kW motor needs a VFD rated for 1.1kW output.

[@elliottgoldkind]

If you're only going to watch one how-to video on converting single phase to 3-phase, THIS is most definitely the one to watch!!! :)

[@MaltandMake]

That's very kind of you to say! Thank you!

[@BigDColeman]

My 3 Phase loads are transformers. I live in the US, I can only access 120v-15A-60Hz. I'm building a model power grid for my city, but I need 3 Phase Power so I can get 12/20.8v to run my city. I just need 3 Phase Power to run transformers the cheap way. Can you help me please.

[@MaltandMake]

Hey, thanks for watching. I'm not sure I can help with that. I guess there's no industrial use for low voltage 3 phase so I don't think there's something 'off the shelf' that could do that.

[@MatthewLaundrie]

hey mate! i have a edge melter machine that has 4 separate motors that has a twist lock plug...since there's 4 motors and a separate smaller electrical controller, how would I hook this up to the inverter? The machine runs on 3 phase 415 volts and my shop only has single phase 240v power and i really can't afford getting a rotary motor. I would so appreciate any input:)

[@MaltandMake]

Hi, sorry I must have missed this at the time. The difficulty might be the heating (I assume your machine has something to melt the glue). Often heating elements need their rated voltage to work properly although it should still heat up but perhaps not enough for the machine to work properly. If it's a hot air blower you could see if you can replace it for a 240V version. In terms of the motors, you might be able to just run then all from the same VFD if they're all constantly running. It's not something I've tested though. Do check the motor plates to see if you can run then on 240V three phase as that might be an easier route than trying to run a VFD that creates the phases and has to deal with running the motors at lower voltage/frequency.

[@CraftsWithEllen]

So good in so many ways

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks Ellen, it was a fun on to edit!

[@andrewchristian2008]

Enjoyed watching the vid what model of inverter did you use and what would you reccomend for a lathe cheers Andrew

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks! If you're UK based, send the guys at InverterDrive.com a message - tell them you watched this video... they've helped a few people before. I've used both WEG (cheap) and Invertek (more expensive). In terms of function work well. The WEG units I've had do have a fan which runs constantly when it's plugged in, even if the machine is off. The only other consideration you'll need to think about is the IP rating (ingress protection). If you can be sure it won't get any dust or liquid near it then you can use any one. Otherwise, familiarise yourself with the IP rating and decide which one you need. All the models I've used can have buttons wired to them so you can rewire the machine and use the original buttons. You might want to add a potentiometer for speed control although some VFDs have one already. Although that does mean you'll need it accessible. Hopefully that's a good start but let me know if I can help in any other way.

[@HueyLionsheart]

If I come across something 3 ph....I'mma just gonna whack it now! Good info and entertainment value. Top work fella 😁👍

[@MaltandMake]

Haha, thanks! Glad you enjoyed it... not sure how well the Brett/Steve strategy will work though!

[@boltonky]

Only thing i notice people don't talk about much is that using a VFD is you have about 2/3 the power of original specs and more likely to burn out the motor quicker due to inconsistent voltage/amps, Not saying they aren't good and can do the job i guess it just comes down to how good your supply is and the prep work.....i mean for any stable supply at mine i probably need to install a lvl 999 Capacitor in my system, so strange having motors that only work like they should some of the time

[@MaltandMake]

I've heard about the power loss at lower speeds or if using a 3 phase on single phase. Do you have a good source for the shortened life span? I'd be interested to read more!

[@ManCaveMakings]

Hi James and thanks for putting this together, nice way of editing and the content is awesome. Would be useful if you could link some examples of the VFD and brake resistor you use in your shop and possibly why you chose them? As a complete newbie or should I say convert.........soz! I would be good to get some examples? Thanks, great job buddy

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it. I've bought two WEG and three Invertek VFDs all from InverterDrive.com. They're really helpful and offer great advice with what you should buy. The break resistor is something I picked up in a job lot at an auction so there are much better options available (again InverterDrive sell them). This one is from a motion control driving rig! The WEG units are cheaper and work just as well as the Invertek ones for almost all applications. Like I said in the video, I needed one with a higher IP rating to prevent dust getting in but if you're able to keep the VFD out of the way then there's no reason to go with something cheaper. That's what I did for the Startrite bandsaw in the video. It has a cheaper WEG unit built into the case (in the electrical box) and has the original start and stop button wired to it and I just drilled a new hole for the speed control knob. The reason I went for Invertek is the IP rating, it has buttons including a speed control knob built in and I've used them on other machines so there's some symmetry between different tools in the workshop. In most cases you can pick any brand of VFD you just need to think about: The right 'power' rating to suit your motor The right IP rating to suit your application - waterproof, dustproof etc The right size for where you want to put it Any buttons built in (they can all have your own buttons added if you want to use existing ones) Options to attach safety switches (e-stop, case open switches etc) - most have this I hope that's a helpful start! I can thoroughly recommend InverterDrive so if you do get something from them please let them know I sent you. Not sponsored but it would be great if they did!

[@ManCaveMakings]

Malt & Make superb James and thanks for the comprehensive reply that’s much appreciated, I’ll definitely go check Inverterdrive out as resource. I’ve been looking at Bridgeport end mills and some lathes so think they might work but will do some research. Thanks for sharing and putting the video up 🙌🏻🙌🏻👍🏻🤜🏻🤛🏻

[@v1d9uy]

I'm in the US and I have a 3phase motor that's 208-230/460 volts 25.6 - 24/12 amps What VFD do I need to run it ?

[@MaltandMake]

That's quite a powerful motor. You'll need a VFD that is rated for the same horsepower as the motor. It doesn't matter which brand you buy. I suggest finding a local supplier, asking what they have available and explaining how you want to use it.

[@MrGrisha84]

This is a awesome video. You are totally under subscribed

[@MaltandMake]

Thank you, that's a great compliment!

[@kjellski]

Whooohoooooooooo, that was an awesome whirlwind of video techniques and great audio on top man! I'd love to see your list of options to consider for VFDs - did you collect any? Also, I hope you vote for me as well?! (I don't know what it's about and hope it's nothing bad :D)

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks, it was a lot of work to edit but totally worth it! I don't know what the vote is for but I'm voting for you! Things to think about for VFDs: The right 'power' rating to suit your motor The right IP rating to suit your application - waterproof, dustproof etc The right size for where you want to put it Any buttons built in (they can all have your own buttons added if you want to use existing ones) Options to attach safety switches (e-stop, case open switches etc) - most have this

[@kjellski]

@@MaltandMake okay, thanks - well I guess I'll just search for the application when I have it then :) thanks!

[@asianlionsofasia8982]

Hi Sir,thanks for this video. I wonder, are you using a 230v to supply to this VFD for a 400v motor?

[@MaltandMake]

Yes, I am!

[@asianlionsofasia8982]

@@MaltandMake noted with thanks Sir 😃😃

[@learningcoach1]

hello , I'm so glad i found your channel - really good and thorough information, thank you. i have an electric heater from Berko for my wood shop and the Manufacturer tag says 3 phase im sure thats the fan motor. i need to do more research, your advice to open it up and take a look at it is a good first step.

[@MaltandMake]

You're welcome! Thanks for watching and good luck with the project, let me know how it goes.

[@learningcoach1]

@@MaltandMake okay i surely will

[@larsokland]

That was a fun video, I really enjoyed that!😊 The comedy was great, but Steve might have upstaged you with his "Joaquin Phoenix..?"😁 Well done James, thanks for sharing!

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks, I'm hoping to keep the style going. Damn Steve!

[@rbmk6890]

Nice vids you deserve more subscribers

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks, feel free to share if you want to help the channel grow

[@Super--Star]

Wow. I thought I was annoying and not funny. But!!!! Watch this

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks!

[@jpwoodwork]

great info good sir!!

[@MaltandMake]

Thank you!

[@jankelbich4605]

Where is it ? Which country ? I noticed the labels "BRZDA" and "ODSÁVÁNÍ", this is czech words.

[@MaltandMake]

I'm in the UK but this machine was imported by someone else before I bought it. What do they mean?

[@jankelbich4605]

@@MaltandMake It's mean : "BRZDA" : BRAKE "ODSÁVÁNÍ" : SUCTION. I am from Czech republic (exactly : I was born in the Czechoslovak socialist republic, and now I still living in the Czech republic). That's why I noticed.

[@MaltandMake]

@@jankelbich4605 Thanks! That makes a lot of sense!

[@gabrielschoene5725]

Great video, surprised at how little views this has for the quality!

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks! Sharing it with someone you think will like it can help with that!

[@davidwoodward7020]

can't you just rewire it and add suitable capacitor?

[@MaltandMake]

It's a hack I've heard about but not something I've tried. There's a few advantages to using a VFD: reliability, speed control and energy efficiency. I'd be interest to hear if you've had any success with adding a capacitor?

[@davidwoodward7020]

@@MaltandMake ive just been looking at VFD's..given that .75 would be for a 1hp motor.my drill will have 1/3hp.so by rites that would need a .25kw VFD? but i can only find a .45 kw on ebay...would that be ok do you think?or is there some mad formula i dont know about :)

[@MaltandMake]

@@davidwoodward7020 As long as the VFD is rated for at least the power of your motor you'll be fine. The closest 'common' size you'll find is 0.37kW but 0.45kW would work.

[@davidwoodward7020]

@@MaltandMake brilliant,thanks for your advice

[@debandmike3380]

why is every three phase video from the UK.

[@MaltandMake]

Maybe we're jealous of Germany where 3phase at home is normal?

[@NerdInventor]

Bahahahaha! That was great! Thank you James! ❤

[@MaltandMake]

Cheers mate, glad you liked it!

[@DanGamble]

Fun!

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks!

[@CrudeButEfficient]

Great job! Love the humour/information ratio! I have so much I want to comment on this video (all good) but I would have to watch it again and make a list to remember everything... 😁 How much power does the resistor soak up when breaking?

[@CrudeButEfficient]

Oh, and I'm amazed that so many homes around the world just have single phase power. In Sweden only the smallest, old apartments have single phase, everyone else use good old three phase!

[@MaltandMake]

I wish it was the norm here!

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it. Please do watch again... ideally from a different location/IP address!! Braking resistors are rated for continuous power on the of hundreds of watts and then also overload e.g. 10 times rated power for 5 seconds every 90 seconds. I don't have the details for the one I'm using to hand but it's more than I need for this and worst comes to worst I have 2 spare!

[@CrudeButEfficient]

@@MaltandMake 😂 Sure, I'll use my work phone and turn the WiFi off... Hm, I was thinking that it could be interesting to hook a couple of strong light bulbs to the break, it should do the trick as long as it can take the voltage. It wouldn't be as robust as a break resistor, but it could look cool. 💡

[@MaltandMake]

@@CrudeButEfficient that would look cool!

[@FeatherForge]

Noicee!

[@MaltandMake]

Cheers!

[@AndyCPugh]

Perfect!

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks Andy!

[@SonyFoLife]

I SPY A SAMBA :D

[@MaltandMake]

Good spot!

[@SonyFoLife]

@@MaltandMake would love to see a video about it! My VW discord always has a soft spot for busses :)

[@raginggizka9019]

It’s funny how he says “aluminum.” Al-u-mini-um.

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks for watching!

[@MaltandMake]

Sorry, I've not heard that term before

[@athrunzala5337]

more british channels please !! so we can actually understand what's going on !! THANK YOU !!

[@MaltandMake]

Thanks for watching.

[@roscoefields-li9cs]

You need to be more serious when talking about electrical conversion's... A very dangerous subject....i can not take what you say seriously with your kidding around!

[@MaltandMake]

Ok