What Is 3 Phase Power and Do I Need It

Technical requirements of electricity determine if one will use a 3-phase power, mostly for big equipment, or not. Knowing what it is and questioning if you need it or if you can get it, is quite important since it will ensure you get the required power. 

T.N Robinson Ltd is a wholesale electrical distributor who can help. Our experts can answer any questions you have, if you are considering installing 3-phase power. We’ll supply all the required electrical products, at competitive prices, without sacrificing quality!

Fortunately nowadays, there’s advanced technology that has helped to increase the availability of this type of power in homes. The 3-phase power operates with 3 alternating currents, uniformly separated, in a single-phase angle. The three phases work by sharing a common leg, neutral in the installations. If you would like us to discuss our products in a way that is easy to understand, please feel free to contact our excellent customer service team at TNR.

What is 3-phase power?

As mentioned, this type of electricity supply works in three phases of 3 active wires, while sharing a single neutral one at installation. A three-phase power supply triples the amount of power provided by a single-phase power installation.

Three-phase power supplies are supplied in the following two voltages; 240V – similar to a single-phase and 400V in the UK. This type of high power is used mostly in industries as well as commercial buildings.

The different 3-phase power installation forms

One of the important things to understand about a 3-phase power supply, is that you can have different types of installation circuit breakers, however the most popular is the standard 3-pole Moulded Case Circuit Breaker.

You could also use a 4-pole Moulded Case Circuit Breaker instead of the 3-pole one. It is recommended that the neutral wire in the last slot of the circuit breaker, is connected for both the incoming and ongoing, like in the live phases of the supply for this installation. Take note that the line to line voltage in this phase wiring should be 440V and 230V for the line to neutral voltage.

Why do I need a 3-phase power supply?

A simple answer to this question, is that a three-phase power will be able to cope with the electricity demands of large, powerful appliances. 

Most homes and small apartments are powered without issues by a single-phase installation in the UK. Almost all appliances in such areas run perfectly on this kind of power supply. However, if you’re planning on acquiring high-energy appliances for your current home, the one you’re renovating or building, you’ll need to know if you’ll require the 3 phase power.

Some examples of appliances that need the three-phase power to operate and maintain their systems, include high torque motors mostly found in industries, large and multi storey buildings. Such premises have 400-430V 3-phase air conditioners and a lot of 240V cooking appliances. Supplying such buildings with a three-phase power ensures there is no overloading which causes tripping. By upgrading or using a 3-phase, allows simultaneous use of appliances needed in large apartments and industries.

Examples of home appliances that may need a three-phase

• Large electric cooking appliances
• Large air-conditioning
• Powerful instantaneous electric hot water system

Preparations for a three-phase power

If you have decided to install a 3-phase power supply in your home, we can help at T.N. Robinson. We offer guidance to ensure the process of fitting 3-phase in your house or company is a smooth one.

You’re required to collect the necessary equipment. If your 3-phase power supplies up to a 7.5kw (10HP) load, usually in domestic homes, you’ll need a single meter. Once the power exceeds that limit, you’ll need to install a 3-phase energy meter to regulate the consumption efficiently. 

While you’re at it, it is vital that you consult with electricians and suppliers of quality equipment. TNR Ltd has been supplying top quality electrical goods, for the past century. This is a tremendous amount of experience in electrical products. We believe you can trust us to fully help you install a 3-phase power supply in your home.

Electricity technicians and suppliers not only guide you on a three-phase power supply, but they also help with installation and general precautions for a three-phase power supply.

Why Contact us for 3-phase guidance and electrical equipment?

Expertise

Our specialists have a lot of knowledge about  electrical products. This coupled with our extensive experience, allows us to supply only the best products. We guarantee quality for our affordable electrical products.

Best Deals

We have partnered with top brands in the UK and other countries, to offer the best deals on electrical equipment. With our trade account arrangements, you can benefit from big discounts on over 20,000 products. You can get great deals on 3-phase appliances you intend to buy.

Availability

T.N Robinson operates in the entire North West region of the UK, supplying electrical equipment and service to all locations.

Excellent customer service

We have great client customer service. Our personable team listens to our customers to fully understand their needs.