[TheForge] Fwd: Shop tools & layount (3-phase converter)

[theforge@mailman.qth.net]

Forgot to mention, and  this is important for all that don't know,  
capacitors can be dangerous. They will retain significant voltage and 
amperage after power has been cut to the device.   I would expect that 
the windings of the motor should bleed them down, but test them and the 
circuit with a voltmeter before touching anything.   Years ago I formed 
the very unprofessional habit of not only testing any circuit I was 
working on not only with a multimeter, but also shorting it with the 
shank of a screwdriver.  The multiimeter hasn't been wrong yet, but I 
can't seem to kick the habit.

Charles

xlch58@swbell.net wrote:

> Yes, to get optimum performance you should add run capacitors, 
> especially if you are only running a single motor off of the 
> converter.   I expect that your unit has both run and start.    The 
> run capacitors are there to balance the current, rather than 
> voltage.     For the average  home shop where you just want to be able 
> to run that single bargain industrial machine I would just wire up a 
> second motor of same or larger size as a rotary converter, use a rope 
> to start  it.   If your machine motor gets hot with your usage, then I 
> would go to the trouble of balancing the current with capacitors, 
> otherwise just keep it simple and be happy.    The power company 
> doesn't measure power factor for residentials.    For your situation 
> Ralph,  it would be worth monitoring the current with an amp meter and 
> adding capacitors as needed.
>
> Charles
>