[actionman]

Hello,
I just got a thermal arc welder
it is single phase 220, but my shop has 3 phase 220
Is there a SIMPLE way to convert
any advise would be appreciated
thanx,
Joe

[Al_The_Man]

Just connect to two phases, don't forget the ground wire.
Al.

[actionman]

Al,
A Big Thank You Sir,

it never ceases to amaze me, the wealth of knowledge and
generosity of sharing that knowledge on this forum.
again
thank you
Joe

[actionman]

Al,
My neighbor said I need step down transformer
I guess I dont really know what you mean by use 2 phases
is there a diagram of sorts
thanx
Joe

[Al_The_Man]

If you have 3phase 220v and your welder is 220v, why would he think you have to step down?
Take a meter and read across two phases to confirm it, you should read 220 across any two phases.
If you have a three phase panel, there will either be three phase breaker or a fused disconnect or some kind of distribution panel.
You will either have 3 phase, neutral and ground or just 3 phase and ground, but you will probabally have a neutral also that will measure 120v to each phase.
Your welder is probabally just 220v 1 phase in.
You will need a fused disconnect hooked into any of the two phases, this should be rated to supply the full load primary current of the welder.
If you are not sure about working with a 3 phase supply then you should get some professional assistance.
Al.

[actionman]

thanks Al,

I have no problem getting professional assistance.
But I like to have an Idea of whats going on, so that
someone doesn't try to sell me an $800.00 step down
transformer

thanx again
Joe

[actionman]

The welder is up and running.
There happen to be an electrician at my back door when my dad
and I were ready to put a plug on and try it . He was there to determine
a problem w/outside lights so as one last ditch effort question he
confirmed what Al The Man said.
That not only helps w/the welder but also my other mill thats been waiting for power.
Thanks Again Al
Joe