Phase converter

A utility provider will generally charge a higher fee for a three-phase service because of the extra equipment, including transformers, metering, and distribution wire required to complete a functional installation.

In one type of digital phase converter, the input rectifier consists of IGBTs being used alongside inductors to create the third leg of power.

The IGBTs are controlled by software in the DSP to draw current from the single-phase line in a sinusoidal fashion, charging capacitors on a constant-voltage DC bus.

The second half of the digital phase converter consists of IGBTs that draw on the power previously stored in the DC bus to create an AC voltage that is not sinusoidal.

With the ability to adjust to changing conditions and maintain voltage balance, a digital phase converter can safely and efficiently operate virtually any type of three-phase equipment or any number of multiple loads.

Five European countries: Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Norway and Sweden have standardized on single-phase AC at 15 kV 16⅔ Hz for railway electrification.