Changing Frequency of AC Power Supply: Circuitry vs Generation

[Hank_Rearden]

Can anyone tell me what the most standard way of changing the frequency of an AC power supply is? Can it be done with circuitry or does the method of generation need to be set at the desired frequency?

 

[James S Saint]

Can anyone tell me what the most standard way of changing the frequency of an AC power supply is? Can it be done with circuitry or does the method of generation need to be set at the desired frequency?

The most common is to ensure that the generator is the right frequency.

If you have to change frequency, a common method is to convert to DC, then back to the desired frequency. If you want merely a harmonic of the original, there are circuits that can do that for you ready made as modules (frequency doublers) depending on the power requirements.

 

[Good4you]

Almost every motor (exhaust fans, air handlers, etc.) in a commercial building uses a VFD (Variable frequency drive.) So, id say this is a very common way. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable_frequency_drive