AquaPhase™ — Phase Converting Variable Frequency Drives

Phase Technologies, a leader in phase converter technology for over ten years, developed the AquaPhase pump converter to address the unique requirements of phase conversion in pumping applications. AquaPhase converters are purpose-built phase converting variable frequency drives (VFD) with a unique set of features and benefits.

CONSTANT PRESSURE WATER SYSTEMS
Changes in static water levels, variable demand for water and other conditions in a water system can cause water pressure to fluctuate, resulting in uneven flow. AquaPhase solves this problem by maintaining constant pressure in the system. Signals from a pressure transducer are interpreted by the converter, which then controls motor speed to maintain the target pressure. When configured as constant pressure systems, AquaPhase converters can also control duplex pump systems and pre-charge large plumbing systems at a slower pump speed to prevent sprinkler blow-off or burst pipes.

POWER QUALITY
As the use of power switching equipment such as VFDs becomes more common, the harmonic distortion they cause is a growing concern for electric utilities. Utilities now commonly require an installation to comply with IEEE 519, the standard for allowable line voltage and current distortion. The voltage boosting input module of AquaPhase converters is equipped with electronic power factor correction, which eliminates the troublesome harmonic distortion common to other VFDs. AquaPhase installations easily comply with IEEE 519, and expensive input harmonic filters and line reactors are never required.

ECONOMY AND VERSATILITY
Most VFDs used as phase converters actually have a three-phase input. Because of this, the drive HP rating must be doubled or even tripled to protect the diode bridge and to deal with ripple current on the DC bus. Because AquaPhase Pump Converters have a single-phase input module designed for phase conversion, they do not require oversizing. All models are available in a compact, rugged wall mount NEMA 1 enclosure that can be converted to NEMA 3R with the addition of a simple, affordable rain shield. Models are available with either 240V or 480V input.

ADVANCED FEATURES
AquaPhase offers advanced, programmable motor and pump protection features including dry well protection, programmable restart delays and more. Variable frequency output ramps motor speed to eliminate line disturbance and water hammer. Control circuits for 0-5 VDC or 4-20 mA provide the ability to monitor and control motor torque and speed. It is also equipped with remote notification relays and modbus communication for off-site monitoring.

EASY INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
Unlike “off the shelf” VFDs that are difficult to program, the AquaPhase intuitive keypad and LCD display allows advanced programmable pump protection with ease, and has the familiar look and feel of a pump panel with RUN, START, STOP controls. The keypad also displays easy to understand trouble shooting codes, operating parameters, timers and fault logs. Installation can usually be accomplished in just minutes with a minimum of additional equipment required.