Converting to Electronic Variable Speed

Linz: You can pick up single phase variable frequency drive units from electrical supply stores make sure you take you motor name tag info so they can supply you with a motor that is equlivent, mounts the same and is also compatible with frequency drives. Randolph@cooperedpatterns

-- another tip from cooperedpatterns

There’s a few options. A 3 Phase motor and a VFD will do what you want.

So will a DC powered Motor and a Motor Controller circuit that has speed control (preferably PWM, but others work fine too).

There are some other options as well, but those are the 2 that I understand the best.

The guys in the Home Shop Machinist web discussion site are having a lot of success using the motors and electricals from used exercise tread mills. These are often obtained for FREE from your local Craig’s List “free” web site from people who just want these things out of their house. They are often running metal lathes using these motors which are variable speed with a wide speed range.

Rufus

-- Always remember half of the people in this country are below average.

Planeman—Thanks for the Home Shop Machinist site http://bbs.homeshopmachinist.net/ what a great site, and what a great idea to re purpose treadmill motors!

-- Fred, Springfield, Ma

Linz:

With an AC variable speed controller (varies frequency) or a DC motor, keep in mind the fact that this type of variable speed power supply operates at constant torque from it’s base speed. In other words, if you 1/2 the motor speed, you also 1/2 the HP.

Thus, if you are thinking that this would be a good way to drill with that 3” forstner bit you will be disappointed.

-- "Heaven is North of the Bridge"