What does single phase or three phase mean?

While thinking about choice of module it all depends upon the capacity of load. To easily understand Single phase think one pushing paddle of bicycle providing power whereas three phase means three cylinder pushing and providing power.

When we talk about single phase it is used where less power is required for running small loads wherein three phases are used majorly in factories, datacentre, industries etc. where large amount of power is required.

As we know that single phase units are available <20 kVA only, above this unit, it is basically a three phase input for rectifier,

even where the inverter output is single phase. When feeding this type of system via a generator it is important to remember that the bypass line will be single phase, demanding a higher current on one phase only. Larger units with three phase input/output are more easily distributed across generators and can also be used to feed single phase loads, and with good load balancing, need not be oversized

It shows two sine waves varying quantity. As you can see the blue one and the red one has a definite angle difference. The red one starts from zero. But the blue starts a bit later. The angle difference between them is considered as phase difference.

Therefore if an electric power supply system consists of a single sine wave varying voltage it is termed as single phase.

If a certain power supply system consists of three sine wave varying voltages with a phase difference of 120 degrees then it is called as three phase system.

Thus, the ratio of capacity to conductor material is doubled.
    
Single Power Phase -     

• Able to supply ample power for smaller customers, including small office, business, homes etc.

• Even if continuous running of motors on 5 horse power, single phase motors makes more current than 3 phase horse power, which is somehow equivalent , and more efficient choice for industrial critical applications.

Three Power Phase –

·   Basically used in large industries, factories, datacentres etc.   

 

·   It is very expensive to convert single phase installations that are existing.

·    Three phase allows for less expensive wiring and lower voltage, making it safer to run.

· Highly efficient for equipment designed to run on 3-phase.