3 Phase vs 1 phase pull

[mbrooke]

Say sub-panel costs were not an issue. Would it be cheaper/easier to pull a single phase feed or 3 phase feed for the same amount of power? MC/Cable.

 

[infinity]

IMO if 3Ø is available that is always what I would use.

 

[mbrooke]

IMO if 3Ø is available that is always what I would use.

Alright. Reasoning?

 

[zbang]

The pull itself would be easier but figure in that 3-phase panels can cost a heap more than single.

 

[infinity]

Alright. Reasoning?

One extra conductor 50% increase in available power. No brainer.

 

[LarryFine]

I'd say size (and price) doing it each way. Electrically, the 3ph system is more efficient.

 

[zbang]

The OP says "for the same amount of power". I read that as "for the same KVA*" so 100amp single phase or ~70amp three-phase; extra but smaller conductor, might affect conduit size.

*I know, that isn't power

 

[mbrooke]

One extra conductor 50% increase in available power. No brainer.

So am I right to think 120/240 200 amps is the same as 120/208 125 amps?

 

[retirede]

So am I right to think 120/240 200 amps is the same as 120/208 125 amps?

Essentially, power-wise. The first is 48kw, the second about 45kw.

 

[winnie]

However if you are in a facility with 208/120 three phase, then you likely don't have 120/240... so the choice is between 208/120V three phase or 120/208 'single's phase.

Jon

 

[AKElectrician]

Well you got 3 wires or 4.
3 wires easier to deal with than 4.
2 less connections and smaller lighter cable.
Bonding is obviously not saved either way.

 

[mbrooke]

Well you got 3 wires or 4.
3 wires easier to deal with than 4.
2 less connections and smaller lighter cable.
Bonding is obviously not saved either way.

Right, but thinner 4 wire.