1 1/2 hp or 2 hp

Armycub2

Armycub2

Joined
Feb 15, 2011
Messages
35
How much of a difference in performance do I get with a 2hp vs a 1 1/2. I am planning on getting a Bader B111 but have an issue with the electrical supply in my shop, might need to have the city put a new transformer to allow mw to run a 2 hp so would like to know if that is worth it. Thank you in advance.
 
1.5 hp is fine for smaller knives. 2hp is much nicer for larger blades. Variable speed is better than both:)

The transformer you speak of will not know the difference. And if in question would have already blown up :)
 
Don, how much longer blades. Although I have done few blades in the past this is the first time that I have decided to set up a working area and get the appropiate equipment. I dont forsee my self making any swords any time soon but 12 inches or less stock piece is too much?
 
Two HP shouldn't draw more than 2,000 watts. Your water heater is probably twice that. I doubt the city will care.

1 1/2 is enough for hollow grinding, but the additional drag against a platen when flat grinding (especially at high speeds) makes the 2 hp more useful for that kind of work.
 
Like Nathan said, flat grinding on a flat platen is where the hp is noticeable.

I consider anything over 7" large, but width would make more difference.

Rule of thumb is 1 hp per 1" of belt width.

Don't forget variable speed...
 
Everybody has limitations (well, some folk that is) with what they can install in their workshop. if you have to go with the smaller motor then maybe you cannot lean as hard onto your grinder when hogging as you would like (but then if you are leaning hard, maybe time to change the belt?). I do have a 2hp but if it were 1.5 I am positive I would be just as happy. For my setup that is.

HOWEVER... if you really wanted that 2hp motor then make sure you are not running the dryer and a bunch of other stuff at the same time you are slaving away in the workshop.
 
Armycub2 said:
How much of a difference in performance do I get with a 2hp vs a 1 1/2. I am planning on getting a Bader B111 but have an issue with the electrical supply in my shop, might need to have the city put a new transformer to allow mw to run a 2 hp so would like to know if that is worth it. Thank you in advance.
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2HP is great. Reguardless, you do not need a new transformer outside your house that is for sure! May need a 220 line in your shop but that's about it.
 
The other thing to not forget is the amps just because it is a 1 1/2HP and a 2HP does not mean they are all the same. You can have 2 grinders both with 1 1/2HP motors one with a say a 5 amp and the other with a 8 amp and the higher amp will run circles around the lower amp.

Here is a for instance I have a 3/4HP bench grinder 4 amp and I can stop that pretty easy with a hard muslin buffing wheel sharpening hoof knives. I also have several 1/2HP bench grinders that are 8 amps and I can not stop them at all doing the same job.
 
The Bader comes with quality motors, usually a Leeson or Baldor. I think mine has a Baldor on it. No real worries about producing true HP since you're starting with a quality machine.
 
Start with variable speed from the start. I definately recommend 3phase with vfd. 2hp with a vfd will run fine on 110 0r 220. I do it all the time at shows and even in my shop through a long extension cord. Surplus Center is a great source for motors. The have some 1.5 stainless washdown (new) motors for under $200. If go the 3phase/vfd route, I strongly recommend KB electronics controllers. I've used others and they don't compare. A KBAC27d will run 1.5 or 2hp and will do it well on 110 or 220. I just always recommend starting with variable speed cause a single phase motor will always be single speed.
 
travis wuertz said:
Start with variable speed from the start. I definately recommend 3phase with vfd. 2hp with a vfd will run fine on 110 0r 220. I do it all the time at shows and even in my shop through a long extension cord. Surplus Center is a great source for motors. The have some 1.5 stainless washdown (new) motors for under $200. If go the 3phase/vfd route, I strongly recommend KB electronics controllers. I've used others and they don't compare. A KBAC27d will run 1.5 or 2hp and will do it well on 110 or 220. I just always recommend starting with variable speed cause a single phase motor will always be single speed.
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Armycub2,

Listen to this advice. I have a feeling this guy Travis knows a thing or two about grinders ;)

Nathan
 
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