NL Series Phase Converters
The GP3NL through GP100NL are Phoenix's standard-duty rotary phase converters — converting 230V single-phase utility power into clean, balanced 230V three-phase power for general shop use. The most popular series for woodworking shops, metal fabrication, and general manufacturing.
Who uses the NL Series?
The NL Series is the right choice when you have standard 230V single-phase utility service and need to power 230V three-phase equipment. It covers the widest range of applications:
- Woodworking shops — table saws, planers, jointers, dust collectors
- Metal fab shops — mills, lathes, drill presses, welding equipment
- Auto repair — lifts, compressors, frame straighteners
- Small manufacturing — mixers, conveyors, pumps
- Agricultural — augers, feed mixers, irrigation pumps (see NLA for hard-start loads)
If your equipment is rated for 230V three-phase and you have standard residential or light-commercial single-phase service, the NL Series is the straightforward, proven solution. For CNC machines or sensitive electronics, consider the PL Series with enhanced filtering.
Key Features
- NEMA 4 steel enclosure — weatherproof, dustproof, hose-down rated
- TEFC cast-iron idler motor — totally enclosed fan-cooled for long service life
- Solid copper windings — no aluminum; runs cooler, lasts longer
- Heavy-duty capacitor bank — optimized for voltage balance across load types
- Manual or AutoStart option — auto on/off with load for convenience
- Lifetime transferable warranty — covers the unit for life, transfers on resale
- Made in Phoenix, Arizona — U.S. manufacturing, U.S. support
How to size the NL Series for your equipment
Phase converters must be sized larger than the motor HP — the multiplier depends on how hard your equipment starts and runs. Use these guidelines:
| Load Type | Examples | Multiplier |
|---|---|---|
| Easy | Saws, drills, grinders, fans | × 1.0 |
| Medium | Mixers, small lathes, pumps | × 1.5 |
| Hard | CNC mills, lathes, press brakes | × 2.0 |
| Very Hard | Air compressors, HVAC, dust collectors | × 2.5 |
Worked Examples
Multiple machines: size for the largest motor + 50% of the next largest.
NL Series — All Models & Pricing
| Model | HP | Input | Output | Enclosure | Warranty | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP2NL | 2 HP | 230V 1Ø | 230V 3Ø | NEMA 4 | Lifetime | Call | |
| GP3NL | 3 HP | 230V 1Ø | 230V 3Ø | NEMA 4 | Lifetime | $749 | Buy → |
| GP5NL | 5 HP | 230V 1Ø | 230V 3Ø | NEMA 4 | Lifetime | $985 | Buy → |
| GP7NL | 7.5 HP | 230V 1Ø | 230V 3Ø | NEMA 4 | Lifetime | $1,590 | Buy → |
| GP10NL | 10 HP | 230V 1Ø | 230V 3Ø | NEMA 4 | Lifetime | $1,955 | Buy → |
| GP15NL | 15 HP | 230V 1Ø | 230V 3Ø | NEMA 4 | Lifetime | $2,543 | Buy → |
| GP20NL | 20 HP | 230V 1Ø | 230V 3Ø | NEMA 4 | Lifetime | $2,663 | Buy → |
| GP25NL | 25 HP | 230V 1Ø | 230V 3Ø | NEMA 4 | Lifetime | $3,709 | Buy → |
| GP30NL | 30 HP | 230V 1Ø | 230V 3Ø | NEMA 4 | Lifetime | $4,480 | Buy → |
| GP40NL | 40 HP | 230V 1Ø | 230V 3Ø | NEMA 4 | Lifetime | $4,820 | Buy → |
| GP50NL | 50 HP | 230V 1Ø | 230V 3Ø | NEMA 4 | Lifetime | $6,785 | Buy → |
| GP60NL | 60 HP | 230V 1Ø | 230V 3Ø | NEMA 4 | Lifetime | $8,635 | Buy → |
| GP75NL | 75 HP | 230V 1Ø | 230V 3Ø | NEMA 4 | Lifetime | $10,715 | Buy → |
| GP100NL | 100 HP | 230V 1Ø | 230V 3Ø | NEMA 4 | Lifetime | $13,034 | Buy → |
Prices shown are for standard NL models. Call (800) 417-6568 for volume pricing or custom configurations.
Common questions about the NL Series
Can I run multiple machines from one NL Series converter?
Yes. Size for the largest motor using its multiplier, then add 50% of the next-largest motor HP. For example: 10 HP lathe + 5 HP drill press = (10 × 1.5) + (5 × 0.5) = 17.5 HP → choose the GP20NL. Never run more total load than the converter rating.
What's the difference between the NL and PL Series?
The NL Series is standard duty — excellent for most shop equipment. The PL Series adds enhanced output filtering for voltage-sensitive equipment like CNC controls, servo drives, and precision instruments. If you're running a Haas, Mazak, or Fanuc-controlled machine, go PL.
Does the NL Series come with AutoStart?
AutoStart is available as an option on NL Series units. It automatically starts the converter when a load is detected and shuts down after the load is removed. Great for single-machine shops where you don't want to manually start the converter. Specify AutoStart when ordering.
What breaker size do I need for an NL Series converter?
As a rule, size the input breaker at 250% of the converter HP equivalent in amps. For a GP10NL on 230V single-phase, the input current is approximately 50A, so use a 60A two-pole breaker and #6 AWG copper wire. See our Reference Tables for a complete breaker/wire sizing chart by HP.
Is the NL Series outdoor-rated?
The NEMA 4 enclosure is dust-tight and hose-down rated, making it suitable for covered outdoor installations. It should not be installed where it will be exposed to direct rain or standing water. For fully outdoor or washdown environments, see the DualZone Series.
NL Series Datasheets
Specs, wiring diagrams, and warranty for every NL Series model.
| Model | HP | Datasheet |
|---|---|---|
| GP3NL | 3 HP | 📄 Download → |
| GP5NL | 5 HP | 📄 Download → |
| GP7NL | 7.5 HP | 📄 Download → |
| GP10NL | 10 HP | 📄 Download → |
| GP15NL | 15 HP | 📄 Download → |
| GP20NL | 20 HP | 📄 Download → |
| GP25NL | 25 HP | 📄 Download → |
| GP30NL | 30 HP | 📄 Download → |
| GP40NL | 40 HP | 📄 Download → |
| GP50NL | 50 HP | 📄 Download → |
| GP60NL | 60 HP | 📄 Download → |
| GP75NL | 75 HP | 📄 Download → |
| GP100NL | 100 HP | 📄 Download → |