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    MEXMAX's Avatar
    MEXMAX Posts: 1, Reputation: 1
    New Member
     
    #1

    Feb 18, 2009, 11:08 AM
    Energy save
    I'm going to open a Laundry coin operated I have two options on the large capacity washers first option is 2 phase and second 3phase wich one is going to be more efficient saving energy?
    KISS's Avatar
    KISS Posts: 12,510, Reputation: 839
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    #2

    Feb 18, 2009, 11:22 AM

    Generally any time three phase is available, it's best to use it.
    The HP or KW rating will help. The two-phase is really single-phase although there was a very old system that was considered two phase. A friend had or had this system in his shop.

    Smaller wires are used with 3 phase, but if motor overloads are required, it can add to the cost. Bet the commercial driers have them built in. 3 phase motors are easier to start and are more reliable.

    To save a possible utility penalty for a reduced power factor, you could add building wide power factor correction.
    Sometimes devices may have it built in. Motors make the voltage and current operate out of phase. Lots of motors distort the power factor and require a higher service entrance than you really need with power factor correction.
    Power factor correction adds a service wide controller that adds capacitors to the utility line which forces the current ot be nearly in phase with the voltage. Power for AC systems can sometimes be expressed as P = VIcos(theta); Cos(theta) ranges from -1 to 1 and it's called the power factor. 1 is desired.

    There is a lot to consider from infrastructure to the number of machines and how your power is metered especially if you are assessed a power factor penalty.

    I'd actually begin by getting a list of the specs for each and the number. From there, find out if integral to the appliance if PF correction is used.

    Find out what the PF will be with everything operating at the same time.

    Determine if the utility has a PF penelty.

    Determine the SE costs with and without PF correction with a Break even analysis with single and 3 phase power.
    sarnian's Avatar
    sarnian Posts: 462, Reputation: 9
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    #3

    Mar 26, 2009, 03:57 AM
    Hello MEXMAX

    3 Phase can save you up to 40% on your electricity bill.
    But take notice of what KeepItSimpleStupid already posted on power factor correction.

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