Is your business in need of a frequency converter? There’s a lot to consider while shopping, but one of the first decisions you have to make is whether you want a solid state or rotary unit. Below, Visicomm discusses the differences between rotary and solid state frequency converters to help you make an informed decision regarding your business’s power conversion needs.
What Are Solid State Converters?
Solid state converters use silicon-controlled rectifiers to convert AC voltage to DC. Then, an inverter alters the waveform for the output.
These converters are ideal for resistive loads, low output frequencies, and small applications between one and five kVA. While you can technically use them for larger applications, this is costly and something we don’t usually recommend.
Solid state converters take minimal time and labor to install and require very little maintenance once up and running. They’re quiet and produce few harmonic distortions and environmental objections. On the rare chance they break, they can be troublesome to fix.
What Are Rotary Converters?
Rotary converters convert AC power into rotary mechanical power by spinning it in a motor. As this motor spins, it transfers power to a generator, which converts the power into the required output voltage.
Rotary converters are ideal for large applications of 10 kVA or more. They’re more difficult to install and require more intensive maintenance than solid state converters, but they create minimal harmonic distortions and environmental objections. Rotary converters are great at handling complicated and heavy loads and are cheap and easy to fix if they break.
Which Should You Choose?
Now that you understand the differences of rotary and solid state frequency converters, you may wonder which to choose. Both types perform the same task; they convert single-phase electricity into three-phase. The difference is in how they convert power and how they manage power loads. Overall, solid state converters are the cheapest and most efficient options for small applications, while rotary converters are best for large, complex applications.
No matter the kind of converter you settle on, Visicomm can set you up. We sell state-of-the-art converters built for longevity and performance. Our rotary frequency converters will provide the reliable large-scale power conversion you need. If you need something for small, resistive loads, we offer solid-state units. Contact us today for assistance in choosing a size and design that suits your business’s needs.