It depends who’s asking, and what the application is, but generally speaking the answer is no.

Most inverter drives are designed for use with three phase motors.  If you have a high torque application like a lathe, or are using pulleys or gearboxes then you will need a three phase motor. Fitting a dual voltage three phase motor enables you to run from either a single phase or a three phase supply using a suitable inverter drive for controlling the speed.

It can be done, but…

Controlling the motor speed has advantages; such as power efficiency, reduced audible noise and better control over the application. Single-phase induction motors are used in both domestic and industrial applications, the most popular being permanent split capacitor (PSC) motors.

There are some special purpose single phase inverters (e.g Optidrive E2) that may be used for PSC motors but they are only suitable for low starting torque applications such as fans and blowers.  They are not compatible with switched-capacitor or split phase ac induction motors.  Alternatively, there are special purpose microcontrollers available that may allow the user to control the motor speed depending on the installation.

If you’re not sure what you’re doing, get expert help from your machine supplier.  However, if you have a three phase motor already installed in your machine and need help in selecting the the correct inverter drive give us a call at 999 Inverters.

Tel: 0116 2999 222
Fax: 0116 2999 223
Email: enquiries@999inverters.com
By Post: 999 Automation
Ross Walk
Leicester
LE4 5HA