Buy a single phase vs. Three Phase Generator
Single-phase and three-phase generators may be cousins in the energy production family tree, but businesses and building managers should not make the mistake of confusing them with their facility's energy needs. While both can work to generate primary power for commercial and industrial use, equipment for off-grid applications, or alternative power in case of outages, people continually wonder about the differences between single-phase and three-phase generators, what can power each and for how long.
These are natural questions. As a business or property owner, facility manager, or simply someone who wants to keep their operations and departments running 24 hours a day without worrying about costly downtime or production interruptions, understanding the three-phase motor difference is critical. Plus, if you choose the wrong engine type, you're likely to experience more pain points than ever before, from erratic poor power to skyrocketing energy bills and an entire fleet of malfunctioning generators.
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Buy a single-phase or three-phase generator with Woodstock Power
The best buys for new and used generators are the ones in the know. What is a single phase generator andwhat is a three phase generator? Woodstock Power guides you through their parallels, differences and applications so you can make the right selection for your operations.
Before we get into the technical details, here's what you need to know about the similarities that form the basis of these two types of generators:
- Both use alternating current (AC):AC is a type of electrical current that actually reverses direction instead of flowing continuously in unidirectional lines. This means that AC electricity is a little more variable than other electrical currents, but it produces higher levels of energy.
- Both contain power cycles:AC flows work in cycles, with maximum and kick outputs based on how the electrons move in their alternate paths. Single-phase generators produce and depend on AC flow with one cycle up and down, while three-phase generators produce and cycle three simultaneously.
The difference between single-phase and three-phase generators
Although single-phase and three-phase generators are based on the same concept of AC flow, a fundamental difference sets them apart and ultimately gives each their name. Each uses a different number of lead wires to provide output power. Lead wires allow each generator to produce a different amount of power.
The power cycles of these generators are the biggest difference between the two. As we mentioned earlier, single-phase generators produce an AC flow thatfluctuates from 170 degrees to -170 degrees. The continuous oscillating wave reaches its maximum output, which is when the most power is generated, and returns to a low output. With a single current, it is more difficult to produce large amounts of energy because the wave is constantly falling. However, the opposite is true with three-phase generators.
The same concept applies to three-phase generators, although they produce power through three different conductors and a neutral ground wire. These wires, or phases, are shifted 120 degrees and timed so they never touch or cross. Phase compensation ensures that one of the three waves peaks at any given time. This arrangement provides more consistent and continuous power output because there is no need to wait for the drivers to peak.
Three-phase generators are essentially three single-phase phases housed in one unit, allowing them to produce much more power. Looking at both types of generators, each of the same size, theThe three-phase generator has 180% more capacitythan the single-phase model. This difference is significant, especially when you need as much power as possible.
Three-phase generators are significantly more powerful than their single-phase counterparts. The continuous three-phase cycle uses these three conductors to provide the generator with a higher power factor, making three-phase models ideal for large applications, such as powering industrial machines. Meanwhile, single-phase generators are only ideal for smaller applications, such as powering household electrical circuits.
How a single-phase generator supplies power
As its name suggests, a single-phase generator uses a single AC waveform described above to create its kilowatt outputs. This is the essential difference of this type of generator. Since they only operate on a "line" of power produced between a small number of lead wires, sometimes as few as two, and that line switches the output up and down, single-phase generators will not provide as constant a source of power in comparison. .with its three-phase counterpart.
Fortunately, even at their lowest point, single-phase generators don't "shut down" completely. Low cycle currents should normally remain undetectedunless this type of generator is operating at excess capacity. That's why you don't notice lights flickering in a room while a lamp or ceiling lamp is on. Commercial lights are a basic application for single-phase generators, but they run so fast that flickering caused by low current points is imperceptible to the human eye.
In total, a single-phase generator is one formed by the following characteristics:
- Contains a current produced by the voltage
- At a minimum, you will only have two winding components carrying the entire system.
- Uses less conductive winding in general
- Lower initial purchase costs but higher maintenance costs
- Loads should remain relatively light, such as individual lights, electronic devices, or appliances.
- Single cycles make it less efficient, less powerful and more prone to voltage interruption
How does a three-phase generator supply power?
A three-phase generator produces energy through three sequenced currents that work simultaneously. These currents require a stronger underlying voltage, but with this setup you will have continuous power generated by your unit.
In addition, this power is not only more constant, but also stronger. A three-phase generator configures its three lead wires and a neutral wire to switch with 120 degree offsets and can maintain power for more intensive applications or mission critical machines. The 120 degree ratio means that when one loop of current is at its lowest level, another will be at its highest level, offering complementary wavelengths that run in tangents to deliver stable amounts of energy.
Three-phase generators strike a perfect balance between the energy supplied and the cost of construction and maintenance. They also have the added benefit of being more versatile. Operators can choose to time all three current cycles to power a large piece of industrial-grade equipment. Or, each lead wire can connect three smaller pieces of equipment to individual power lines within the same three-phase generator.
The former is often the case in factories and industrial applications to power a single machine or system, while the latter works in multi-story office buildings to power elevators and office desks.
In total, a three-phase generator will consist of the following characteristics:
- Three simultaneous currents produced by fluctuating voltage at 120 degree intervals
- Requires at least three copper winding components to charge the entire system
- It uses more complex windings or wiring in general, although lighter and more efficient.
- Driven loads can be heavy and industrial as well as distributed for numerous lighter applications.
- It is the most economical, robust and reliable type of generator
The three conductors give these generators a higher power factor. Three-phase generators provide more voltage output, allowing them to power larger and more complex systems. Some businesses, applications, and installations may require higher voltages to efficiently power their systems. This is where the three lead wires are most valuable and often necessary for operation.
The advantages of a three-phase generator
Understanding the functional and mechanical benefits of a three-phase generator plays an important role in choosing what works best for you.
However, while single-phase and three-phase power are often pitted against each other, it's worth noting that the defining element in your purchasing decision is what you will use this generator for. It's an intuitive question and will help you see the real benefits of the generator for yourself rather than just relying on confusing spec sheets or flashy salespeople.
For industrial, commercial and agricultural applications, three-phase generators are your safest bet. The advantages of three-phase generators for these industries are extensive and include:
1. Stronger, more durable and more reliable
It bears repeating that the most significant advantage of three-phase generators is their high levels of output power and even higher levels of efficiency. They are the workhorses of industrial equipment, heavy machinery, large office buildings and facilities, providing constant flows of electricity essential in high-demand operations.
2. Reduce overall lifetime costs
While they may be more expensive to purchase upfront, three-phase generators are calculated winners when it comes to maintenance, system upgrades, and general upkeep. They are more stable and stronger due to less torsional wear, heavy loads, pulsating timing, and more. Furthermore, when instances of system downtime or production stoppages due to single-phase degeneration and correction are taken into account, three-phase generators become even more cost-competitive.
Also, running multiple single-phase generators can be expensive when it comes to powering large applications. For the same voltage and power, the transmission cost of a three-phase generator is less than that of a single-phase generator.
3. Less aluminum or copper per kilowatt generated or produced
Initially this seems confusing as there are more wires involved in a three cycle generator compared to a traditional one or two cycle. However, three-phase generators actually have what is calledlower power transmission, which means they need less conductive materials to produce the same amount of energy at the same volt level.
In this case, it means that three-phase generators have lighter copper or aluminum wiring components than single-phase generators, making the entire unit potentially lighter but still more efficient.
4. Less torque
Less torque on your generator means less mechanical vibration. This, in turn, helps complement the three-phase generator's superior reliability over its single-phase counterpart.
broad levels oftorque will cause a spiral of domino effectson your unit. Its AC waves are disrupted and less stable as magnets shift or other weights and forces damage the mechanics, meaning irregular cycles. With harmonious cycles being the backbone of AC generator types, you will end up with a less robust and less functional three-phase unit.
5. Higher power factor
Most three-phase generators have an average power factor rating of 0.8. this is almost1.5 times biggerthan the typical power factor of a single-phase generator of the same size and weight. These higher power factor numbers mean higher end outputs capable of handling your industrial applications.
When should you choose a single-phase or three-phase generator?
The most significant factor when choosing a single-phase or three-phase generator is what you intend to use it for. More specifically, consider what types of equipment or devices need power, how often, and for how long.
When should you choose a single-phase generator?
Business owners and facility managers should consider using single-phase generators when applications require less than 240 kilowatts. In general, single-phase generators are not designed to scale. They are also not ideal for powering advanced or 24/7 equipment unless the equipment is highly specialized or supported by another power source.
Building managers or operators are not recommended to use single-phase generators for most of their facility's main systems. These systems include things like heating, cooling, air ventilation, elevators, large electronic systems, and industrial or production equipment. It is likely that each of them will not function without a suitable high output source, such as that supplied with three-phase power.
Since single-phase units are best for residential use, they are only recommended for low-power appliances and equipment such as:
- Individual or small sets of desktop or laptop computers
- individual lighting systems
- televisions
- modems
- portable backup generators
When should you choose a three-phase generator?
Three-phase generators are the right choice for commercial and industrial use. They can withstand longer runtimes, withstand higher voltages, and operate with a maximum degree of stability and reliability.
It is especially imperative that business owners and facility managers equip their buildings with three-phase generators in the event of a power outage or emergency. In some industries,a power outage can cost thousandsin revenue-reducing expenses per minute, not to mention putting lives at risk in some cases. Without a backup power source, your facility is at risk of losing revenue and many other critical business liabilities.
You should choose a three-phase generator if your plant or operation depends on any of the following:
- Industrial equipment:Large engines and other heavy-duty engines, commercial refrigerators, conveyor systems and industrial manufacturing machinery, manual and computerized
- HVAC systems:Central air conditioning, commercial or industrial grade electric furnaces, furnaces or baseboards, furnaces and air vents including exhaust, supply or balancing systems
- Heavy Agricultural Equipment:Tractor driven PTO generators, large engine driven alternators and open standby units
Industries and situations that usually require a three-phase generator
Three-phase generators are essential for many commercial types and situations. Without adequate three-phase generators to support operations, augment specific equipment, or produce power in the field, it is impossible for the following industries to operate at peak productivity.
1. Continuous and small batch manufacturing
Numerous studies have foundmanufacturers have the most to lose from a power outageor interruption. Whether it's small batch production lines or 24/7 manufacturing facilities, manufacturing knows how vital a reliable, industrial-grade power source is. Facility managers work to ensure their power grids are safe and sustainable, as well as protecting them with their own three-phase backup generators to keep machines operational and computer systems regulated. Without them, an installation will have no life.
2. Food and beverage processors
Perishable foods and beverages rely on continuous power to keep cold refrigeration and other preservation storage methods going. With inventory extremely prone to contamination and a shortened or contaminated shelf life, a single power outage can force you to scrap thousands of products.
Food and beverage processing managers should have a full complement of three-phase backup generators in place to assist in those times of need, at a minimum to maintain regulated temperatures and sterile air ventilation cycles.
3. Office buildings, towers and multi-story skyscrapers
Large and complex electrical systems equipped in multi-story buildings require an equally dynamic system. Three-phase generators are the natural choice for electrical engineers and building managers to regulate power to each floor. Also, these power levels must be consistent, regardless of your electricity history or demands. Only three-phase generators have the versatility to distribute currents for multiple applications, as well as the stability and uniformity that skyscrapers need.
4. Agricultural equipment, accessories and power tools
Few energy sources can meet the requirements of agricultural work. Electricity is needed to run farms in almost every area, from regulating temperature and ventilation in livestock sheds to powering irrigation systems or planting and harvesting machines. With these operations taking place on a daily basis, static andportable three phase generatorDrives are the preferred power option to supplement existing systems or enhance the functionality of field equipment tools and accessories.
5. Data centers
As outsourced and cloud-based data storage increases, so does the importance of powering these hubs. These huge facilities cannot risk a power outage, even for a few minutes, as outages mean the possibility of irreversible loss or damage to records, as well as subsequent liability complications. Those in the finance, telecommunications, healthcare or IT sectors need reliable data centers powered by three-phase power supplies to keep data transactions smooth, secure and flawless.
New or used three-phase generators to power your commercial or industrial operations
You have questions and we have the answers. Choosing the right phase generator for your property is not something you decide on a whim. Woodstock Power can help you consider the exact power and grid design and operational needs of your business, plant, farm or facility to find the right generators to tie it all together.
We're always here to answer your questions and protect your business from costly downtime. Contact us today through ouronline contact formor (610) 658-3242. We can't wait to work with you.
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FAQs
Is a 3-phase generator better than single-phase? ›
3-phase generators are significantly more powerful than their single-phase counterparts. The continuous 3-phase cycle uses those three conductors to give the generator a higher power factor, making 3-phase models ideal for large applications like powering industrial machinery.
Does 3-phase use less power than single-phase? ›In fact, compared to single-phase power circuits, 3-phase power circuits provide almost twice the power with the same current while only requiring one additional wire. Using 3-phase power can save on electrical costs by reducing the current requirements and wire size.
What are the disadvantages of single-phase generator? ›- Heavy equipment such as industrial motors and other machinery alike cannot run by using a single-phase power supply.
- Small motors, which are less than single Kilowatt cannot run on a single-phase power supply because of the absence of initial torque required by the motor.
It is very common form of power supply to most small power requirement. Almost all residential supplies are single phase supplies as the domestic appliances require a small amount of power to run lights, fans, coolers, heaters, small air conditioners etc.
Do I really need 3-phase power? ›Most small homes and apartments don't need 3 phase power as all their appliances and power needs will run perfectly well on single phase supply. But if you're renovating or adding high-energy appliances, talk to your electrician to get advice on whether you need 3 phase power.
How much more efficient is 3-phase than single-phase? ›A three-phase power supply can transmit three times as much power as a single-phase power supply, while only needing one additional wire (that is, three wires instead of two).
Why does 3 phase give more power? ›Three-phase power delivers three alternating currents through the same circuit, each uniformly separated in phase angle. In other words, every one-third of a cycle, one of the waves reaches peak voltage, and the power supplied by the circuit remains consistent.
Is 3 phase power more expensive to run? ›Upfront single phase power will be cheaper but in the long term 3 phase power systems will be less expensive. Since three phase power systems provide power more efficiently with fewer problems it is less expensive to run over time when compared to single phase.
What is benefit of 3 phase power? ›Three-phase can provide a lower 120 volts for standard appliances like the washing machine or toaster as well as catering for larger 208 volt power needs such as a compressor or commercial oven. This feature makes it ideal to supply power for multi-dwelling buildings, office blocks, or highrises.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of three-phase system over single-phase? ›A polyphase system produces power at a constant rate in the load. A three phase system can transmit more power as compared to a single phase system. The efficiency of three phase operated devices and appliances is higher than the single phase operated machines. Three phase machines are less costly and more efficient.
Can you use a single-phase generator on a 3-phase house? ›
The choice between a single-phase and a three-phase output is solely dependent on the kind of application to be powered. Single-phase generators are best suited for single-phase output whereas a three-phase generator can easily provide both single- and three-phase power.
Can I power my house with a 3-phase generator? ›Three phase power has three hot legs, each of 120v. You can use any one hot leg to power 120v devices exactly the way you do with single phase power. So you would typically have four wires coming to your home with three hot and one neutral.
How many watts can single phase handle? ›A single-phase supply is sufficient for loads up to 2500 Watts (Depending on the region) and is the most efficient AC power supply for up to 1000 watts. Fast installation of the single-phase distribution system. It does not require the balancing of the load.
What is the maximum power for single phase? ›What is the maximum capacity machine you can connect to a single phase supply? It is possible to connect up to 17kW maximum to a single phase supply. Above this capacity a three phase supply is required.
How many amps can single phase handle? ›Just over 60 amps is the normal limit for a single phase.
When should I use 3-phase? ›Three-phase alternating current (AC) power is commonly used to deliver electricity to data centers as well as commercial and industrial buildings that house power-hungry machinery. There's good reason for that, because 3-phase power can deliver more power with greater efficiency, as opposed to single-phase AC power.
Why more than 3-phase is not used? ›The drawback of more phases is that the transmission towers have to sustain more loads of conductors. Thus, the cost of the electrical system increase. The three-phase system delivers three times the power of a single phase. The 6 phase adds twice the power of the 3 phase.
How many amps is 3-phase? ›An operating three phase motor has voltages measured with a voltmeter on each phase of 453, 458, and 461 volts, amperage measured on each phase with an ammeter are 14.1, 13.9, and 13.8 amps, power factor was measured as 0.82. The average voltage is 453 plus 458 plus 461 divided by 3 which equals 457 volts.
Is 3-phase generator more efficient? ›Single-phase generators are typically more affordable but are mainly used for residential applications and should only be used with low-power appliances and equipment. 3-phase generators are more efficient and can handle more power, making them the go-to option for any industrial use.
Why 3-phase generation is more efficient than the single-phase generation? ›Both types provide AC power, but a three-phase system produces three separate waves of power, delivered in sequence. This ensures a continuous uninterrupted flow of power that never drops to zero and makes three-phase generators more powerful than single-phase generators.
Does 3phase save electricity? ›
3-phase wiring increases your electricity supply. But as long as you have the same number of appliances, and you use it for the same amount of time, don't expect your bills to reduce.
How much extra is 3-phase power? ›Upgrading a home to a 3 phase overhead supply typically costs between $4500-$6500.
Why does a 3 phase have 440 volts but a single-phase has 220 volts? ›In a 3-phase system, the voltage between any two phases is greater than a single-phase voltage by a factor of √ 3 or 1.73 roughly. That means if your single-phase voltage is 120v like in the US or Canada, your 3-phase voltage between any two phases will be 208v.
Why 3-phase power is used why not 6 or 12? ›Why then only a 3-phase system among them? The reason is simple. The least number among all of them is 3 which means we will be needing the least number conductor (3 in three phase as compared to 12 wires in a 12-phase system) while the overcome is almost the same.
When should I upgrade to 3-phase power? ›For instance, if you have three or more air conditioners in your home, you should upgrade to a 3-phase power supply – it will enhance the reliability and stability of the power supply.
How much voltage is 3-phase? ›A common supply voltage is 120V/208V 3 phase Wye configuration. 120 volts is measured from each phase to neutral voltage (neutral wire is center-tapped) and 208 volts is measured phase to phase. Wye configuration is commonly used to supply 3 phase 4 wire service entrances, such as commercial buildings.
How do I know if my outlet is 3-phase? ›What you need to identify is the MAIN SWITCH. In most instances, the main switch will either be what is referred to as 1-pole wide or 3-poles wide. If your Main Switch is 1-pole wide, then you have a single phase power supply. Alternatively, if your Main Switch is 3-poles wide, then you have a 3-phase power supply.
What is the disadvantage of three-phase system over single-phase? ›Disadvantages of 3 Phase System
System voltage 3.3 KV is less as compound to 25KV so because of low voltage, current is high. So, I2R losses are more and less transmission efficiency. More current, more I.R (voltage) drop. So distance between 2 substations is less.
The disadvantage of a 3 wire 3 phase is that you do not have a neutral for phase to neutral connection because it is a delta connection.
In what condition does a house need three-phase wiring instead of single-phase? ›As a rule of thumb, if you have three (3) or more air conditioners in your home, you should upgrade to a 3-phase supply as it will increase stability and reliability of electricity supply. Changing from a single-phase supply to a 3-phase supply would require connection charges.
What size generator do I need with 3-phase? ›
Divide the total amps by three for three-phase current, and by two for single-phase current. Multiply the result by the supply voltage, and again by 1,000 for kilowatts required.
What happens if I plug a 3-phase into a single-phase? ›If phase induction motor when connected to single phase it will single phase the motor and burnt it up. when three phase induction motor is connected on single phase supply , its rotor doesn't rotate because magnetic field in single phase supply is pulsating.
What size generator do I need for a 3-phase motor? ›Sizing a generator for three phase motor starting LRA : The formula is: Motor HP x KVA per HP x (1000 / (Volts x 1.73)) = LRA.
Can a home generator be too powerful? ›Too small, you'll overload the generator, or force it to supply more power than it can handle. If this happens, the generator will either automatically turn off or overheat, which will fry not only the generator, but also your costly appliances. Too large, you'll overpay for both the unit and the cost to operate it.
How many watt generator do I need to run my whole house? ›Some may need to use more appliances during a power outage while some may be enough with having just a few of them running. But in general, a generator that can provide between 5,000 and 7,500 watts would be enough to power a house.
Can refrigerator run on single phase? ›Single phase power is used for everyday equipment such as lights, TV's, radios and fridges.
Is 1 kW enough to run a house? ›A 1kW solar system can easily power a 2-3 BHK house wherein you can use one refrigerator, three fans, one TV, one laptop, and 4-5 lights. On average, you can run about 800 W loads on a regular basis.
Can I run a 3 phase appliance on single phase? ›But with any special arrangement, it is not possible to operate a three-phase motor on a single-phase power supply. As we know, the three-phase induction motor is a self-start motor. As the stator winding of the three-phase induction motor generates a rotating magnetic field. This will create a 120˚ phase shift.
Does 3 phase use less amps? ›Power Efficient
Three-Phase equipment draws up to 40% less Amps compared to a single phase equipment to deliver the same power output. This means that compared to a single-phase machine, a three-phase machine can achieve the same tonnage while pulling less amperage.
A three-phase electricity supply is needed for a 22kW to be installed.
Is single phase power enough? ›
In general, a single-phase power is used where electricity requirement is low. In short, it is for running small equipment. The three-phase power carries a heavy load and can run large machinery in factories.
Do I need single phase or 3-phase electricity? ›Three phase and single phase are electricity supplies and it's the amount of power that is different. A single phase supply is smaller and most domestic houses with gas central heating need single phase and have this as standard. If you require two or more electricity meters then you need a three phase supply.
Is it worth upgrading to 3-phase power? ›Three-phase power combined with rooftop solar can reduce your household power bills to next-to-nothing. It also provides you with scope to add energy-intensive appliances and power them for free with your solar electricity. Getting a three-phase connection at the build stage is cheaper than doing it later.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of three-phase system over single phase? ›A polyphase system produces power at a constant rate in the load. A three phase system can transmit more power as compared to a single phase system. The efficiency of three phase operated devices and appliances is higher than the single phase operated machines. Three phase machines are less costly and more efficient.
What is the advantages of a 3-phase generator over a 2 phase generator? ›What are the main advantages of the three-phase generator? Between two pieces of equipment with the same power, the three-phase generator is smaller and lighter; This type of generator is more effective in supplying energy.
How much extra is 3 phase power? ›Upgrading a home to a 3 phase overhead supply typically costs between $4500-$6500.
Can a house run on a 3 phase power? ›The good news is that the technology is now much more readily available and can be used in homes. The 3-phase power works with three alternating currents that are separated uniformly in phase angle. The three phases share a common leg, neutral in the installations.
Why is 3-phase system necessary? ›Three-phase alternating current (AC) power is commonly used to deliver electricity to data centers as well as commercial and industrial buildings that house power-hungry machinery. There's good reason for that, because 3-phase power can deliver more power with greater efficiency, as opposed to single-phase AC power.
Why is 3-phase better? ›A three-phase circuit provides greater power density than a one-phase circuit at the same amperage, keeping wiring size and costs lower. In addition, three-phase power makes it easier to balance loads, minimizing harmonic currents and the need for large neutral wires.
What happens if you use more power than your generator? ›Slightly overloading the generator or running at maximum power operation (30 minutes) may not switch the circuit ON but will shorten the service life of the generator. Take caution not to overload the generator. Refer to the wattage specifications to ensure you have enough wattage for the appliances you wish to power.
Can a generator be too powerful? ›
Too small, you'll overload the generator, or force it to supply more power than it can handle. If this happens, the generator will either automatically turn off or overheat, which will fry not only the generator, but also your costly appliances. Too large, you'll overpay for both the unit and the cost to operate it.
What is the best type of power generator? ›Diesel Generator
These types of generators are more durable because the low burning temperature of diesel puts less strain on the engine. Diesel generators are more fuel-efficient than gasoline generators, so you'll spend less money over time on the diesel generator.
Disadvantages of Three Phase Induction Motor
3-phase induction motors have poor starting torque and high inrush currents (about 4 to 8 times of the rated current). They always operate under lagging power factor and during light loads, they operate at very worst power factor (about 0.3 to 0.5 lagging).
Single-phase motors need less maintenance than three-phase motors, and will often last for years longer. These motors are typically used in devices and equipment that require lower levels of horsepower, or when it is inefficient to use a three-phase motor.
What are the disadvantages of three-phase rectifiers? ›One of the disadvantages of half-wave 3-phase rectification is that it requires a 4-wire supply, that is three phases plus a neutral (N) connection. Also the average DC output voltage is low at a value represented by 0.827*VP as we have seen. This is because the output ripple content is three times the input frequency.