Phase Converter for a Plasma Cutter

Phase Converter for a Plasma Cutter

Industrial plasma cutters run on three-phase power for a reason: it delivers the consistent, high-current arc needed to cut thick steel cleanly and quickly. If your shop has single-phase utility service, a rotary phase converter is the straightforward way to power a three-phase plasma cutter without a costly electrical upgrade.

How to Size a Phase Converter for a Plasma Cutter

Like welders, plasma cutters are primarily resistive loads. That means you size based on input amps from the nameplate—not output current or cut ratings.

Check the nameplate or spec sheet on the rear of your plasma cutter for Full Load Input Amps or Input Current. That number is the converter size you need. No startup multiplier is required for resistive loads.

Sizing Example

A plasma cutter drawing 30 amps full-load input needs a GP30NL phase converter. A 50-amp unit needs a GP50NL.

Check Your Voltage

Industrial plasma cutters commonly run at either 230V or 460V three-phase. This is critical to get right before ordering. A 230V converter will not work on a 460V machine. Check the nameplate carefully.

• 230V three-phase plasma cutter: Standard NL or PL model
• 460V three-phase plasma cutter: NLT or PLT model (includes step-up transformer)

CNC Plasma Tables

Running a CNC plasma table? The table controller and any associated motors add load beyond the plasma power supply. We recommend the PL model for CNC plasma setups to protect the sensitive electronics from power quality issues and prevent automatic restart hazards.

What About the Air Compressor?

Most plasma cutters require dry compressed air. If your three-phase compressor is powered separately, we can size a converter to handle both. Let us know the compressor HP when you request a quote.

📞 800-417-6568 — Tell us your input amps and voltage and we will confirm the right converter.