10 HP Rotary Phase Converter - GP10NL - Single Phase to Three Phase

10 HP Rotary Phase Converter — Who It's For

The GP10NL is the entry point for shops and operations that need real 3-phase power from a single-phase service. At 10 HP total running capacity with 5 HP single-motor starting, this converter powers the equipment found in home machine shops, small woodworking operations, hobby CNC setups, and light agricultural applications.

Common applications:

• Home machine shops running a Bridgeport mill (1–3 HP), a small lathe (1–2 HP), and a bench grinder or band saw
• Woodworking hobbyists and small shops powering 3-phase table saws (3–5 HP), shapers, jointers, and small dust collectors
• Hobby and small-production CNC with benchtop or mid-size CNC mills and routers with spindles up to 5 HP
• Light agricultural operations running small irrigation pumps, grain augers, and barn fans
• Automotive hobbyists powering tire machines, small hydraulic presses, and shop compressors

What the GP10NL Can Power

At 10 HP total running capacity with 5 HP maximum single-motor starting:

• A 3 HP Bridgeport mill + a 2 HP lathe + a 3 HP air compressor (with staggered starts)
• A 5 HP table saw + a 3 HP dust collector
• A 5 HP CNC router running with a coolant pump and vacuum hold-down
• Several small 3-phase motors (1–3 HP each) running concurrently up to 10 HP total

Sizing Context

The GP10NL is ideal for hobby shops and small operations where the largest single motor is 5 HP and total connected load stays under 10 HP. If you're looking to run a 7.5 HP compressor or a larger CNC spindle, step up to the 15 HP converter. For hard-starting loads — compressors with unloader valves, motors that start under mechanical load — our DualZone models provide extra starting capability.

Installation Overview — GP10NL

The GP10NL is our No Link (NL) model — the most economical option. You receive the control panel and supply your own 10 HP, 1800 RPM, 3-phase idler motor. This is a great choice if you already have a motor, can find one locally (machine shops, motor repair shops, and surplus dealers often have them), or want to keep total cost down.

Key Installation Requirements

• Input Power: 230V single-phase (standard residential service)
• Minimum Service Size: 25 KVA (100A) — most residential homes with 100A+ service can accommodate this
• Breaker Size: 25A minimum, 60A maximum — standard double-pole breaker in your existing panel
• Single-Phase Supply Wire: 6 AWG copper (for runs under 50 feet). Use 4 AWG for 50–100 foot runs
• Idler Motor Wire: 10 AWG copper between panel and idler motor
• Idler Motor: 10 HP, 1800 RPM, 3-phase (NEMA 215T frame). Approximately 209 lbs

The GP10NL is the most DIY-friendly converter in our lineup. If you're comfortable wiring a 240V dryer outlet or water heater, you can install this converter. Our installation manual includes complete wiring diagrams. Average installation time is 2–3 hours. For a complete, pre-wired system, see the GP10PL (Pre-Linked).

Why Phoenix Phase Converters?

• Lifetime Warranty: Even on our entry-level converter, we provide a lifetime warranty. Not 1 year — lifetime.
• 90-Day Money-Back Guarantee: Try it in your shop. If it doesn't work for you, send it back for a full refund.
• American-Made: Built in Phoenix, AZ by Daniel Floreancig's team — over 50 years designing phase converters.
• Right-Sized Components: Budget converters cut costs on capacitors and contactors. We don't. Our components are rated for the job, which is why we can offer a lifetime warranty.
• Free Sizing Help: Not sure if 10 HP is right? Call us with your equipment list and we'll tell you exactly what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions — 10 HP Phase Converter

Can I run this on a 100A residential panel?

Yes. The GP10NL requires a minimum 25A breaker on a 100A panel. Most homes have 100A or 200A service, either of which is sufficient. The converter draws 30–40 amps at full load, leaving plenty of capacity for normal household circuits. Just make sure your panel has space for a 2-pole breaker (40–60A recommended).

What if my motor is larger than 5 HP? Can I still start it?

The GP10NL's rated starting capacity is 5 HP for standard across-the-line starting. If you have a 7.5 HP motor that you'd like to run, it may work if the motor starts unloaded (no mechanical load at startup), but it's pushing the converter's limits. For reliability, we recommend the 15 HP converter if your largest motor exceeds 5 HP.

How does a rotary converter compare to a VFD?

A VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) converts single-phase to 3-phase for one specific motor and gives you speed control. A rotary phase converter generates true 3-phase power for your entire shop — you can run multiple machines, lights, controls, and anything else that needs 3-phase. Most shops need a converter (for general 3-phase power) and may add VFDs on specific machines that benefit from variable speed.