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Questions about phase converters & caps & generators

E

Eric R Snow

Jan 1, 1970
0
Greetings All,
I've built a couple rotary phase converters using info from the web,
from Fitch R. Williams, and from the usenet group:
rec.crafts.metalworking. When building these devices capacitors are
used to balance the voltages on the three "legs". This balancing is
done so that the voltage is the same as close as possible when the
phase converter is operating under load. And that the power factor is
as good as possible. Both converters turned out well because I was
given good info and I can follow directions. And I think I understand
most of what's happening. However, I don't understand why a capacitor,
when placed across two of the three legs, doesn't act as a short. It
seems to me that the capacitor would look like a resistor placed
across a DC source. If the resistance is high enough then only heat is
produced. If low enough heat and melted resistors are produced.
Another question is about using capacitors to help with motor starting
when operated from a generator. When used with a rotary phase
converter one of the reasons why capacitors work is because they store
and release energy. Knowing this has lead me to wonder: Is it feasible
to use capacitors to help with the power surge when starting induction
motors?
Thanks,
Eric R Snow
 
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