Hey rwf, where you at?
I bought a new Heavy Duty Rotary Phase Converter from Cedarbeg Industries Minneapolis MN in 1988. It continues to work well. It runs on 220-230v single phase from the street (utility co.) and creates a third 120v leg to add to the 2 existing, and phases the power correctly for 3 ph motors. Closest NYSE&G 3ph transmission lines were miles away, so it made sense to purchase the PC. It's portable enough to take to job sites. They are sized to the max start-up HP of the first motor you start, then you can start your smaller 3ph motors one at a time after that.
For long term investment for stationary tools 3ph motors are best, prob once you need 4+ HP. Great convenience if your utility co has it on your street. Some Mafell TF tools are avail w 3ph motors.
Cedarberg had PCs for up to 100HP. Their 1989 ph# 612 888-3130 and 800 328-2279. I've never had to call them, don't know if AC has changed.
Steve