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Difference Between 220V & 380V 3-Phase Power Supplies: Understanding Inverters & Voltage Levels

Szaruś 66304 23
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What is the difference between 220 V and 380 V three-phase power, and which inverter/motor connections match each supply?

The difference is the line-to-line voltage: a 220 V three-phase system has about 220 V between phases and 127 V phase-to-neutral, while a 380/400 V system has about 380/400 V between phases and 230 V phase-to-neutral [#704089][#705045] For inverters, 200–230 VAC 1/3-phase units are the low-voltage class and can be fed from one 230 V phase or a 230 V three-phase supply, while 380–460 VAC 3-phase units are meant for a 400 V three-phase supply [#704089][#706446] An inverter’s supply voltage does not by itself define the output voltage, so the exact output depends on the model and settings; check the manual before wiring a motor [#705837][#705871] A motor marked 230 V delta / 400 V star can run on 230 V line-to-line in delta or on 400 V line-to-line in star [#703873] If you use a 230 V single-phase inverter, that motor must be connected in delta, and you cannot get 400 V three-phase from a 230 V single-phase input [#703873][#18984357]
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  • #1 703862
    Szaruś
    Level 12  
    Posts: 47
    Rate: 4
    What is the difference between 220V three-phase power and 380V three-phase power supply? Many manufacturers report that they have 3-phase products for these voltages. E.g. inverters 200 to 230VAC 1/3 phase or 380 to 460 VAC 3 phase power supply, etc.

    As far as I know, the voltage between phase and "zero" is 220-230V, and between phases is 380-400V.
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  • #2 703873
    12robert12
    Level 29  
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    you are right, i.e. you can load 1 phase or 3 phases in a star in these inverters (1/3 phase = 1 of 3 phases), it will be 230 and if you connect 3 phases to the motor, for example, in a triangle, it is 400V.
  • #3 704016
    Anonymous
    Anonymous  
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  • #4 704043
    Szaruś
    Level 12  
    Posts: 47
    Rate: 4
    Ie. do I understand correctly, inverters powered from 3 phases in a star are 3-phase 230V, and 3-phase in a triangle is 3-phase 400V?
  • #5 704089
    Anonymous
    Anonymous  
  • #6 704116
    Szaruś
    Level 12  
    Posts: 47
    Rate: 4
    My house connection has 3 phases (400 V between phases, 230 V between phase and "neutral"). Can I connect devices powered by point 2 or 3 to it?
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  • #7 704214
    Anonymous
    Anonymous  
  • #8 704551
    thalex
    Level 16  
    Posts: 223
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    Rate: 42
    Szaruś wrote:
    What is the difference between 220V three-phase power and 380V three-phase power supply? Many manufacturers report that they have 3-phase products for these voltages. E.g. inverters 200 to 230VAC 1/3 phase or 380 to 460 VAC 3 phase power supply, etc.

    As far as I know, the voltage between phase and "zero" is 220-230V, and between phases is 380-400V.

    Our networks have a voltage of 3x400V
    This means that the phase-to-phase voltage is 400V and the voltage between phase and neutral (N) is 230V

    There are networks with 3x220V and then the phase-to-phase voltage is 220V and the voltage between phase and zero is 127V.

    An example would be the engine it writes on;
    3x230 - triangle
    3x400 - a star
    Means that the motor can work in a 3x230V network connected in delta
    and in the 3x400V network connected in a star
    (i.e. such a motor cannot be delta connected in our network, in our delta network a delta and star connected motor could work, but on it it must write 3x400V triangle / 3x660V star, for these motors, star / delta switches are used in our networks.

    If we use a 230V single-phase inverter and a typical 3x230V triangle / 2x400V star motor, the motor must be switched to work with such a triangle inverter.
    These inscriptions on electric receivers define the types of networks in which these receivers can work

    Szaruś I have briefly described the issue, but I will be happy to answer other similar questions here and there too :wink:

    Please note that the previous statements contain a lot of mistakes!
  • #9 704739
    Anonymous
    Anonymous  
  • #10 704981
    Szaruś
    Level 12  
    Posts: 47
    Rate: 4
    It's just to put it in order.

    Here is an example of one manufacturer's data plate:
    Difference Between 220V & 380V 3-Phase Power Supplies: Understanding Inverters & Voltage Levels

    So, if I understand correctly, those with a 380-460 V 3-phase power supply and a 200-230 V single-phase supply are suitable for Polish conditions. So, for example, the model 1305-AA02A is not suitable, but the AA03A model is single-phase). And all "BA" models are OK?
  • #11 705045
    Anonymous
    Anonymous  
  • #12 705837
    ADACHO
    Level 15  
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    Hello. I would like to draw my colleague's attention to a certain irregularity presented by "Geguś". The inverter power supply does not necessarily determine what we get at the output ;) . I have inverters powered by 1-phase 230V and it is possible to set the output voltage :) . therefore delta- or star-connected motors can be connected to them :) . Supply quantities are a separate matter .. but I can see that you are clear on this matter
  • #13 705871
    Anonymous
    Anonymous  
  • #14 706119
    thalex
    Level 16  
    Posts: 223
    Help: 7
    Rate: 42
    geguś wrote:
    Hello
    if any statements contain errors, they should be corrected - no matter who wrote them

    forgive goose but I would have to correct every post of yours.
    genguś wrote:
    True, all AA series 3-phase models are not suitable for our network, unless I use a transformer or autotransformer to lower the voltage

    all inverters in the table are suitable for our networks. The choice depends on the engine at our disposal.
    genguś wrote:
    there are also circuits which, instead of 3x230V (phase-to-phase), can be powered from one phase -230V, but then you will only get the output
    110V (phase-to-phase)

    Where do the 110V come from :?:

    geguś wrote:
    3. there are 3-phase inverters, i.e. phase-to-phase 230V

    But perhaps on one winding of the star-connected motor coil?

    ps. I will not mention that you do not write anything whether you need to switch the motor in a triangle with a single-phase inverter :lol: :lol: :lol:
    but it is finally a discussion forum; so I will not be allowed to contribute to the discussion.
  • #15 706144
    thalex
    Level 16  
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    Szaruś wrote:
    It's just to put it in order.

    Here is an example of one manufacturer's data plate: ........

    All inverters in this table are suitable for our networks. The choice depends on the engine you have. A problem is created if you have one single phase inverter and a three-phase motor (low power) and there is no all the ends removed coils, which makes it impossible to switch it for delta operation.

    The selection of the inverter should be started with the motor you have.
  • #16 706446
    _Tomaszz
    Level 16  
    Posts: 225
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    I agree with Thalex's post above!

    As for the table - AA series converters can be connected to a 230V three-phase network (not with us) or to one 230V phase - at the output of the device you will get 3x230V phase-to-phase,
    we connect the BA series only to the 3x400V network, obtaining 3x400V at the output.

    Supporting my colleague Thalex, I will write to tell you what type of motor you have (if you have one) and how you can power the converter (single-phase or three-phase).
  • #17 706492
    Anonymous
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  • #18 707999
    thalex
    Level 16  
    Posts: 223
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    Hello everyone, especially Szarusia
    HHAAALLLLOOO Szaruś are you satisfied with the answer ?????

    Regarding the table; I think it is not exact because it is not written how many phase the power supply is, I would bet (when it comes to 200-230) that such an inverter is intended for one phase, e.g. 230V, so it fits our network.

    Thanks other plate for support.

    Sorry Dude but the red square (I mean your square) obliges you to do something.
  • #19 709815
    Szaruś
    Level 12  
    Posts: 47
    Rate: 4
    I was gone for a few days, and here I can see a discussion broke out.

    And I do not have the engine yet (but I will), I just wanted to get an idea of the topic.

    Thanks for the replies, now (I guess :) ) lightened up a bit.
  • #20 711153
    krzysiek-ii
    Level 12  
    Posts: 15
    Rate: 3
    if you want to know more about inverters and their power supplies, go to: www.schneider-electric.pl
  • #21 4250232
    ln
    Level 11  
    Posts: 28
    And I have such a problem.
    I have a device with a built-in Tamela 380V motor and three wires coming out. I do not have access to this box as it is in ordinary engines. The motor is probably connected with a star because the sign is marked with a Y sign (upside down), other parameters 0.8kW, stand. 380V 2.2A Cos? 0.74 1400rpm.
    The device works nicely in three phases, and I would like to fire it in an apartment where there is one. It is a grinder, it is important to keep the rotation and the right torque (hence the three phases).
    The question is whether it can be done somehow with capacitors so that it can be done on one phase. Replacing the motor is absolutely not an option, it is impossible / unprofitable - the motor is built into the body of the device.
    If the inverter is OK, but I read some of the previous posts and I don't understand anything except that it would require a delta connection of the motor, and I can't do anything but these three wires, because there's nothing inside except the hole from which they come out.
    In addition, on the Allegro I met mainly with inverters described in this way: input 230V, output 0-input or the same but input 380V.
    I need something that will convert one 230V phase to three 380V shifted accordingly.
  • #22 4250638
    atlantel
    Automation specialist  
    Posts: 1379
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    Rate: 256
    Hello!
    Do you have access to a current clamp and voltage meter, if you have an electrician or a friend who would measure the mains voltage and current consumed during normal operation of the grinder, I will answer you - is it possible to use an inverter? Using a 3-phase motor as a single-phase in your device is rather hardly possible due to the drastic reduction in power.
    greetings
  • #23 5425367
    Krzysiek.UK
    Level 10  
    Posts: 7
    Hello, I can see that this topic is probably related to my problem, so I got a pressure washer and it requires a socket that, as far as I know, has 400v, unfortunately I do not have one in my house, is there any possibility to run it without such a socket?
  • #24 18984357
    krzysiek-ii
    Level 12  
    Posts: 15
    Rate: 3
    From the inverter 1phase - the motor must be in the triangle between the wired 230v from one phase you will not do 400v
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Topic summary

✨ The discussion centers on the differences between 220V and 380V three-phase power supplies, particularly in relation to inverters and their configurations. It is clarified that 220V is typically the phase-to-neutral voltage, while 380V is the phase-to-phase voltage in a three-phase system. Inverters can be designed for single-phase (230V) or three-phase (400V) outputs, with configurations such as star (Y) and delta (Δ) affecting the voltage levels. Users inquire about connecting devices to their existing three-phase systems and the compatibility of various inverter models. The importance of understanding the motor's connection type and the inverter's specifications is emphasized, as well as the potential need for transformers in certain setups. Additionally, there are discussions about the feasibility of using capacitors to adapt three-phase motors for single-phase supply, though this is generally discouraged due to power limitations.
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FAQ

TL;DR: 97 % of EU workshop motors run on 400 V three-phase grids [CENELEC, 2019]; "choose the inverter to match the motor, not the wall socket" [thalex, #704551]. If you only have 230 V single-phase, use a 1-ph-in/3-ph-out inverter set for 3 × 230 V, or add a step-up transformer for 3 × 400 V loads [Elektroda, 706144] Why it matters: selecting the wrong voltage can overheat windings in under 60 s and void warranties.

Quick Facts

• EU utility standard: 230 V phase-neutral, 400 V phase-phase, ±10 % tolerance [EN 50160]. • Typical 1-ph → 3-ph inverter price: €120–€250 per kW [Mouser, 2023]. • Star (Y) connection cuts coil voltage to √3 (≈58 %) of delta value [IEC 60034]. • Motors labelled 3×230 Δ / 3×400 Y can run on either network if re-strapped [Elektroda, 704551] • Over-voltage of 15 % can double no-load current and slash motor life by 40 % [NEMA, 2020].

What’s the practical difference between “220 V 3-phase” and “380 V 3-phase” listings?

In the older IEC notation, 220 V refers to the phase-to-phase voltage of a low-voltage three-phase network (127 V phase-neutral), while 380 V refers to a higher network (220 V phase-neutral). Modern EU grids moved to 230/400 V, so devices marked 380–400 V suit today’s supply; 220 V gear needs a step-down transformer or delta reconnection [Elektroda, #704551; EN 50160].

Can I power a 3×400 V star-rated motor from a single 230 V socket?

Yes, with a single-phase–input / three-phase–output frequency inverter. Set the output to 3 × 230 V and re-strap the motor to delta. Expect roughly 58 % of the original torque if you keep 50 Hz; compensate by reducing load or using vector control [Elektroda, 706144]

Why does the nameplate show both 3×230 Δ and 3×400 Y?

Dual-voltage motors have two wiring options: delta for low-voltage networks (230 V per coil) and star for high-voltage networks (400 V per coil). Each coil sees the same 230 V in either case because star divides the higher line voltage by √3 [IEC 60034].

Which Allen-Bradley 1305 inverter series fits Polish 400 V mains?

Models with the “BA” prefix accept 380–460 V three-phase input and deliver 3 × 400 V output—no transformer needed. “AA” units are for 200–230 V input; you’d need a step-down transformer or single-phase supply to use them on a 400 V grid [Elektroda, 705045]

How do I size a transformer if my inverter only takes 230 V 3-ph but I have 400 V?

  1. Calculate apparent power: P(kW) × 1 000 / power factor (use 0.8 if unknown).
  2. Choose a 400→230 V three-phase autotransformer rated ≥ 125 % of calculated kVA for startup inrush.
  3. Ensure the transformer insulation class equals or exceeds the motor’s (usually Class F or H) [“Transformer Sizing Guide”, Schneider, 2018].

What happens if I connect a 230 Δ motor directly to 400 V?

The coils see 73 % over-voltage. Magnetising current can rise four-fold, causing core saturation, 150 °C hotspot temperatures, and likely burnout within one minute [NEMA, 2020].

Is running a 3-phase pump on capacitors instead of an inverter safe?

Capacitor phase-shifting works only for light loads and gives ~60 % rated power. Your 0.8 kW grinder would drop to ~0.5 kW and stall on heavy cuts. Inverters keep full torque and allow soft start [Elektroda, 4250638]

How do I program inverter output voltage?

Most drives (e.g., Omron MX2, ABB ACS355) let you:
  1. Enter parameter P-01: supply voltage—set 230 V or 400 V.
  2. Enter P-02: max frequency—set 50 Hz unless speed control needed.
  3. Save and power-cycle. Always follow manufacturer code lists [ABB Manual, 2022].

Can a pressure washer labelled 400 V run at home without a 5-pin socket?

You’ll need either a 3-ph extension from a building with 400 V, or a 230 V-in / 400 V-out rotary converter or inverter rated at the washer’s kW. Simple plug adapters won’t create the missing two phases [Elektroda, 5425367]

What edge case should I watch for with low-power inverters?

Drives under 0.75 kW often provide only 175 % overload for 3 s. A cold grinder can exceed that on start, tripping the inverter. Choose the next size up or add a soft-start ramp longer than 5 s [Mitsubishi FR-D700 Manual, 2021].
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