How do I determine if I need 3 phase?

I have purchased an older machine that did not have a power chord attached. The previous owner gave me the wiring diagram for the machine. In looking at the diagram, I see that the drive motor is a 230VAC, 3 phase .25hp KEB M63B4 1.6A. The motor is then wired into a Frequency inverter. Do you assume that the power requirement is a 3 phase, or is it possible that this unit has it's own converter? The previous owner never ran the machine so was of no help.How do I determine if I need 3 phase?
Read the nameplate on the actual motor. It will tell you exactly what types of power can be used.
The frequency inverter can be a speed control and/or it can be a phase generator, Must look at the plate on the inverter. I have one that is both. 440volt (1 Ph) in/ 440 3 phase variable speed out. Speed controls for a 1/4 hp motor are not very expensive in 110/220 ratttings. When in doubt change over to a motor you have the power for. There is also another variable, Delta or wye connections. and requirements. You really should consult someone who knows what they are doing.How do I determine if I need 3 phase?
It is not unusual, but also not universal, that a variable frequency drive as small as 0.25hp can run on single phase. The nameplate of the inverter will be much more important in this case (where you want to know how to power an already assembled machine) than the nameplate of the motor itself.How do I determine if I need 3 phase?
I think go for 3 phase also see Wikipedia