voltage and frequency converters/transformers 1

[Diabolico]

Does anybody know of a product out there that converts not only voltage but frequency? I work for a chiller manufacturer company and I constantly have customers asking if theycan convert our 230VAC 60 Hz units to 115 VAC 50 HZ. I know there are voltage converters and frquency conveters. Is ther a transformer/converter that can do both??

 

[ScottyUK]

Anything capable of changing frequency should be able to change voltage too.


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Sometimes I only open my mouth to swap feet...

 

[jimkirk]

Are you sure you have the frequencies associated with the correct voltages? A simple transformer can do the voltage conversion, and depending on the application, you may well be able to power a circuit designed for 50 Hz at 60 Hz. Going the other way (operating a circuit designed for 60 Hz at 50 Hz) is more problematic. Transformers are more likely to saturate and power supply filter caps will have more ripple. If motors are involved, either way could be a headache.

 

[logbook]

As you are the manufacturer you should be able to say if the unit will work on 50Hz or 60Hz interchangably. Most power supplies will not have any trouble. Motors may run a bit faster/slower, but the amount is very deterministic.

Typically 230V is 50Hz (UK) and 110V is 60Hz (USA).

If you need the correct frequency you could use a "rotary converter"; this is a motor-generator pair.

 

[VEBill]

It might be better to find replacement motors and power supplies (etc.) to make a specific version designed and approved for the other market.

 

[jraef]

Bottom line, changing voltage is easy, that can be done magnetically with a transformer. Changing frequency is not, you must do it with a rotary converter or an electronic converter. Neither are cheap, both come with issues that must be dealt with. Then when you enter the realm of 1 phase motors, you run in to a whole new set of problems because most 1 phase motors have capacitors in them which may end up making them incompatible with electronic power systems. As VE1BLL said, it is usually easier to change your motor.

or as others mentioned, just change the voltage and live with the speed changes. Read this through for more information; faq237-1224 (Click on that faq link to be taken directly there)


JRaef.com
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For the best use of Eng-Tips, please click here -> faq731-376

 

[sreid]

There are voltage/frequency changers available. I think you will find that the cost is high enough that you'd be better off selling a new chiller. I have used these converters when there was no other realistic alternative.

The chillers I now purchase are 50/60 Hertz compatible and have an internal, switchable transformer to change voltage. You might want to consider doing the same.

 

[Diabolico]

sreid,

who do you buy your chillers from?

 

[sreid]

Diabolico,

ATC.

 

[automatic2]

VFDs

 

[Diabolico]

SReid,

Who do you work for if I may ask? I work in the Boston area for a chiller manufacturer.