Marine Frequency Converter for 50Hz and 60Hz Vessel Power
Convert the available shore-side electrical supply to the voltage, frequency and phase sequence required by the vessel.
SDACME supplies project-specific marine frequency converters for ports, shipyards, dry docks, vessel maintenance and electrical testing. Each converter is configured around the available grid, vessel load, required output and selected equipment scope.
50Hz to 60Hz / 60Hz to 50Hz
Configure frequency conversion for different shore-grid and vessel electrical standards.
Low- and High-Voltage Configurations
300–3000kVA low-voltage reference range and project-engineered MVA-class high-voltage systems.
Voltage and Phase Matching
Configure output voltage and phase sequence for the required vessel connection.
Flexible Supply Scope
Select a standalone marine converter or an integrated shore power conversion package.
What Is a Marine Frequency Converter?
A marine frequency converter matches the available shore-side electrical supply to the power required by a vessel electrical system.
A marine frequency converter is a static power-conversion device that receives an available three-phase AC supply and delivers the voltage, frequency and phase sequence required by the vessel.
In shore power applications, it is used when the local port or shipyard grid and the vessel distribution system operate with different electrical parameters. A common application is converting 50Hz shore power into the 60Hz supply required by the vessel.
Frequency conversion is completed by the converter. Voltage matching can be achieved through converter output control, transformer configuration or a coordinated combination of both.
The converter can be supplied as core equipment or incorporated into a larger shore power package with transformers, switchgear, monitoring, protection and vessel connection equipment.
Frequency Conversion
Configure 50Hz-to-60Hz or 60Hz-to-50Hz operation according to the shore grid and vessel electrical system.
Voltage Matching
Match the vessel voltage through converter control, transformer configuration or a coordinated combination.
Phase-Sequence Adjustment
Configure the output phase sequence for vessel connection and commissioning requirements.
Flexible Equipment Scope
Supply the converter alone or combine it with transformers, switchgear, protection, monitoring and connection equipment.
The converter matches the available shore grid to the electrical power required by the vessel.
Match the Shore Grid to the Vessel Power System
Shore power projects frequently involve differences in frequency, voltage, phase sequence and available grid capacity. The converter is configured around the actual shore input and vessel output requirements.
50Hz to 60Hz Shore Power Converter
A 50Hz to 60Hz shore power converter allows a vessel designed for 60Hz operation to use power from a 50Hz port or shipyard grid. This is one of the most common applications for a marine frequency converter in international ports and vessel-service facilities.
60Hz to 50Hz Shore Power Converter
A 60Hz to 50Hz shore power converter is configured when the available shore supply is 60Hz and the vessel requires 50Hz power. The same project review covers output voltage, phase sequence, load behaviour and connection requirements.
Frequency Conversion
Configure 50Hz-to-60Hz or 60Hz-to-50Hz output for the vessel electrical system.
Voltage Matching
Match output voltage through converter control, transformer configuration or a coordinated combination.
Phase-Sequence Adjustment
Adjust the output phase sequence through the control system for vessel connection and commissioning.
Load-Based Rating
Select converter capacity from rated load, rated voltage, rated current, inrush current and simultaneous operating loads.
How a Shore Power Static Frequency Converter Works
The shore frequency converter transforms the incoming AC supply through a controlled power-conversion process.
The rectifier converts the incoming AC supply into DC power. The DC link stabilizes the intermediate power stage, and the IGBT inverter produces a controlled AC output at the required frequency and voltage.
IGBT Static Frequency-Conversion Cabinet
Low-voltage shore power converters generally use an IGBT static frequency-conversion cabinet. The converter, HMI, protection, cooling and communication functions are integrated according to the selected capacity and enclosure design.
Coordinated Multi-Cabinet System
High-voltage shore power conversion is engineered as a coordinated multi-cabinet system. A typical configuration can include input and output switchgear, phase-shifting transformers, converter power-unit cabinets, isolation transformers, protection panels, neutral-grounding equipment and auxiliary control systems.
In a ship frequency converter application, modular power units, phase-shifting rectification and multi-level output technology can be used to support MVA-class capacity and high-voltage waveform performance.
Typical Shore Power Conversion Configurations
Input voltage, output voltage and frequency are configured according to the available shore grid and the vessel electrical system. The examples below show common project directions.
- Low voltage: 380–440V
- High voltage: 10kV
- 50Hz or 60Hz input
- 50Hz ↔ 60Hz conversion
- Output-voltage matching
- Phase-sequence adjustment
- 380–480V low voltage
- 6kV, 6.6kV or 11kV
- 50Hz or 60Hz output
Common Input and Output Directions
Each row represents a typical project direction rather than a fixed standard model.
| Voltage Class | Shore-Side Input | Required Vessel Output | Typical Configuration |
|---|---|---|---|
| LV | 380V / 50Hz | 380–480V / 60Hz | Low-voltage frequency conversion; 300–3000kVA reference range |
| LV | 400V or 415V / 50Hz | 440V / 60Hz | Voltage and frequency conversion |
| LV | 440V / 60Hz | 400V or 415V / 50Hz | Reverse-frequency conversion |
| HV | 10kV / 50Hz | 6kV / 50Hz or 6.6kV / 60Hz | High-voltage shore power conversion |
| HV | 10kV / 50Hz | 6.6kV or 11kV / 60Hz | High-voltage converter with isolation transformer |
| HV–LV | 10kV / 50Hz | 400V / 50Hz or 440V / 60Hz | Converter and transformer package |
The Electrical Conditions Are Reviewed as One System
The final configuration is selected from capacity, grid conditions, vessel voltage, earthing method, transformer arrangement, cable system, protection requirements and the required operating sequence.
Typical Technical Specifications
Shore power frequency converters are configured for the electrical conditions, capacity and installation requirements of each project.
Shore Power Converter Technical Range
| Parameter | Available Direction |
|---|---|
| Frequency Conversion | 50Hz to 60Hz; 60Hz to 50Hz |
| Low-Voltage Input / Output | Typical project voltages include 380V, 400V, 415V, 440V, 450V and 480V |
| High-Voltage Classes | Typical project voltage classes include 6kV, 6.6kV, 10kV and 11kV |
| Low-Voltage Capacity | 300–3000kVA reference range |
| High-Voltage Capacity | Project-engineered MVA-class systems |
| Phase | Three-phase; neutral arrangement configured for the project |
| Low-Voltage Power Conversion | IGBT static frequency-conversion cabinet |
| High-Voltage Topology | Multi-cabinet conversion system with project-configured transformers, switchgear and protection |
| Control | Local HMI and PLC-based control |
| Communication | RS232, RS485, CAN and Profibus; integration with PLC, HMI or SCADA systems |
| Installation | Indoor cabinet, outdoor enclosure or containerized integration |
| Cooling | Air cooling, HVAC or project-specific thermal management |
| Protection | Electrical, converter, transformer and system protection configured for the selected scope |
Typical High-Voltage Performance
| Parameter | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Reference Input | 10kV, three-phase, 50/60Hz |
| Input Voltage Tolerance | −15% to +15% |
| Input Frequency Tolerance | −5% to +5% |
| Reference Output | 6.6kV / 60Hz or 11kV / 60Hz |
| Frequency Accuracy | 0.01Hz |
| Three-Phase Voltage Imbalance | ≤2% |
| Load Stability | Within ±1% |
| No-Load Output Voltage Harmonics | ≤3% without an additional filter |
| Input Power Factor | Above 0.96 at loads above 20% |
| Input Current Harmonics | Below 3% at rated load |
| Overload Capability | Configured for the selected capacity, load profile and protection settings |
Control, Protection and Operating Flexibility
Stable vessel power requires coordinated converter control, vessel connection, load response, communication and electrical protection.
HMI and PLC-Based Converter Control
The marine shore power converter can be operated through a local HMI with PLC-based control logic. The interface provides direct access to operating status, electrical parameters, alarms and configured control functions.
Output Adjustment for Vessel Connection
Output settings and operating functions are configured around the vessel electrical requirements and the commissioning sequence.
Set the required output values through the local HMI within the configured operating range.
Fine-tune the output during commissioning and vessel connection.
Adjust the output phase sequence through the control system without changing the external cable order.
Add reverse-power detection, control or trip logic when required by the operating sequence.
Electrical Protection and Fault Records
Protection settings are configured for the selected converter, vessel load conditions and operating sequence. The control system can respond to abnormal electrical or thermal conditions through alarms, controlled shutdown or trip logic.
Operating history, alarm records and fault information can support commissioning, maintenance and troubleshooting. Remote diagnostic access can also be included in the project scope.
Connect the Converter to the Shore Power Control System
Communication interfaces can be configured for integration with PLC, HMI or SCADA systems. Available communication options include RS232, RS485, CAN and Profibus.
Remote monitoring, operating permissions, interlocks and data exchange are defined according to the selected shore power architecture and project scope.
Standalone Converter or Integrated Shore Power Package
SDACME can configure the supply around the customer’s existing infrastructure and required project scope.
For projects where transformers, switchgear, cables and shore connection equipment are already available.
For projects requiring coordinated conversion, transformation, switching, protection and monitoring.
Integrated Power-Conversion Package
An integrated shore power package is suitable when frequency conversion must be coordinated with voltage transformation, switching, protection, grounding, monitoring or shore connection equipment.
The system can be supplied as an indoor installation, outdoor enclosure or containerized shore power package, according to the project environment and connection requirements.
Standalone Frequency Converter
Standalone supply is suitable when transformers, switchgear, cables and shore connection equipment are already included in the customer’s infrastructure or local project scope.
The converter is supplied as the core frequency-conversion equipment with its operating, protection and cooling functions.
Voltage Transformation and Electrical Isolation
Transformer equipment can be coordinated with the frequency converter when the shore grid voltage and vessel distribution voltage are different.
The selected transformer arrangement depends on the voltage class, converter topology, isolation requirements, grounding method and required output.
Switchgear, Protection and Shore Connection Equipment
The integrated supply can include the switching, metering, protection and control equipment required to connect the shore grid, converter and vessel distribution system.
The final equipment combination is configured according to the required voltage class, operating sequence and installation form.
Installation, SAT, Commissioning and Training
Site installation, site acceptance testing, commissioning and operator training can be included according to the project scope and site conditions.
Manufacturing, Assembly and Factory Acceptance Testing
Equipment assembly, internal wiring, transformer and switchgear integration, container installation, power-on inspection and project-specific factory acceptance testing can be completed before shipment.
Assembly and System Integration
The manufacturing scope is arranged around the selected converter configuration, voltage class, enclosure type and auxiliary equipment.
Converter cabinets, power units, control equipment, transformers, switchgear and selected auxiliary systems can be assembled and integrated before shipment.
Routine Inspection and Electrical Testing
Factory inspection covers equipment construction, internal connections, electrical performance, protection functions and agreed operating checks.
Cabinets, components, labels and terminals.
Internal wiring and electrical connections.
Insulation and withstand-voltage testing.
Voltage output and regulation accuracy.
Verification of the configured frequency.
Response under the agreed test conditions.
Alarm, trip and protection-function checks.
Efficiency testing within the FAT scope.
Equipment noise testing.
Display, alarms, records and interfaces.
Project-Specific Factory Acceptance Testing
Rated-load or project-specific load testing can be arranged according to the agreed FAT scope, available load equipment and technical requirements.
Short-circuit high-current testing can also be applied where it matches the approved test method.
Rated-load or project-specific operating tests.
FAT items and acceptance values are agreed before testing.
Witnessing can be arranged at the factory or by video.
Reporting requirements are defined before the FAT.
Assembly and Test Process
View the equipment assembly process and shore power frequency converter output testing.
Selected Shore Power Frequency Converter Projects
Selected low-voltage, containerized and high-voltage shore power conversion configurations for shipyard and port applications.
Singapore 400kVA Containerized Frequency Converter
A 400kVA outdoor containerized shore power system was supplied for a shipyard project in Singapore. The system was configured for 415V / 50Hz input and 415V / 60Hz output.
The electrical equipment was installed, internally wired and tested in the container before shipment.
Indonesia 2 × 1200kVA Frequency Conversion Project
Two 1200kVA shore power frequency converters were supplied for a shipyard project in Indonesia.
The units accept 380VAC ±15% at 50Hz ±5% and provide an adjustable 380–480VAC output at 60Hz for different vessel voltage requirements.
5MVA High-Voltage Shore Power Project
A 5MVA high-voltage shore power system was configured for a domestic port project.
The system converts 10kV / 50Hz industrial power into 6kV / 50Hz or 6.6kV / 60Hz marine power for high-voltage vessel connection.
Marine Frequency Converter FAQ
Review common questions about marine frequency conversion, voltage matching, capacity selection, installation, communication and factory testing.
Match different shore-grid and vessel operating frequencies.
Configure the required vessel voltage and phase sequence.
Review rated load, current, motor starting and operation.
Define inspection, electrical testing and acceptance scope.
01 What is a marine frequency converter?
A marine frequency converter is a static power-conversion device that receives an available AC supply and delivers the voltage, frequency and phase sequence required by a vessel electrical system.
02 Where is a marine frequency converter used?
It can be used in ports, shipyards, dry docks, vessel maintenance facilities and electrical testing applications where the available grid does not match the vessel power system.
03 Can it convert 50Hz shore power to 60Hz vessel power?
Yes. A 50Hz-to-60Hz marine frequency converter is commonly used when the port or shipyard grid operates at 50Hz and the vessel distribution system requires 60Hz power.
04 Can it convert 60Hz shore power to 50Hz vessel power?
Yes. Reverse-frequency conversion can be configured when the available shore-side supply is 60Hz and the vessel requires 50Hz power.
05 Can one system change both voltage and frequency?
Yes. Frequency conversion is completed by the converter, while voltage matching can be achieved through converter output control, transformer configuration or a coordinated combination of both.
06 Can the output phase sequence be adjusted?
Yes. Output phase sequence can be adjusted through the control system for vessel connection and commissioning.
07 How is marine frequency converter capacity selected?
Initial capacity selection considers total rated load, rated voltage, rated current, peak or inrush current, the largest motor, starting method and simultaneous operating loads.
08 What is different about low-voltage and high-voltage configurations?
Low-voltage configurations generally use an IGBT static frequency-conversion cabinet. High-voltage configurations are engineered as coordinated multi-cabinet systems with project-configured transformers, switchgear, converter power units, protection and auxiliary equipment.
09 Can SDACME supply only the frequency converter?
Yes. The converter can be supplied as core equipment, or transformers, switchgear, monitoring, protection, shore connection equipment and container integration can be included according to the required scope.
10 Are indoor, outdoor and containerized versions available?
Yes. Indoor cabinets, outdoor enclosures and containerized installations are available according to the site environment, cooling requirements and selected equipment scope.
11 What communication interfaces are available?
Available interfaces include RS232, RS485, CAN and Profibus, with integration into PLC, HMI or SCADA systems.
12 What tests are completed before shipment?
Factory testing can include visual and wiring inspection, insulation and withstand-voltage testing, output voltage, voltage regulation, frequency, dynamic response, protection, efficiency, noise, HMI and communication checks.
Send Your Marine Frequency Converter Requirements
Submit the available shore-side and vessel electrical data to receive a suitable technical configuration and quotation.
Information for Initial Converter Selection
Contact name, company, country, email and complete business contact details.
Input voltage, input frequency and available grid capacity.
Earthing method and short-circuit capacity when available.
Output voltage, output frequency and required capacity.
Continuous load, peak load and power factor.
Largest motor, starting method, starting current and operating sequence.
Indoor, outdoor or containerized installation requirements.
Converter, transformer, switchgear, monitoring, connection equipment, container integration, commissioning or training.
Load list, single-line diagram, vessel electrical data or technical specification.
Complete project information supports a faster review of converter capacity, voltage matching, equipment scope and factory test requirements.
