Can someone tell me what to look fo0r on ebay for a variable speed motor and a controller for itr? I would like to change to variable speed but have no idea what to get to do it. I see all kinds of DC motors on ebay, but I do not know what I need. I only have 120 v in my shop. I want to get 220 when I get enough money to do it.
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Advice for Variable Speed Motor and Controller
- Thread starter kapina001
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- Oct 3, 2002
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Look for a veriable motor (either AC or DC)with controler, 1-1/2 HP or more and these will only be available in 220 volt. I bought a brand new Dayton 1-1/2 HP DC with controler on eBay a while back for $300. My next variable speed motor will be a VFD 3HP AC from KMG and will have a KMG attacted to it 
Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith
ilmarinen - MODERATOR
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Knifemaker / Craftsman / Service Provider
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You want a continuous duty motor,sealed case,1.5HP or larger,220V,proper mounting plate (that will work with your setup),and most important - a matching controller.Not all controllers will work with all motors.You will get a lot of opinions on VFD vs DC,I like DC motors.Just my preference.
You do not want a motor from some appliance like a tread mill!
You do not want a motor from some appliance like a tread mill!
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bladsmth said:
I agree completely. If you really want something that will last and you don't have to be screwing with all the time, call Minarik Electric(they have them all over, or if you can't find one, contact me and I'll get some contact info for you) and get a good Leeson motor DC Variable speed motor and MM20000 series controller for it.
An oiltite/dustite NEMA 4 controller box would be best but they can get expensive.
I've used NEMA I raintight and sealed the places dust can get in with silicone, after I had it set up and adjusted properly.
Apply the silicone and let it set up, and then reassemble the can. To do it while the stuff is still soft can make a one piece unit. Don't need to ask how I know that.
It may cost a little more up front, but buy good stuff and cry only once.
I'm too poor to buy crappy tools as far as grinders, motors and related gear. It hurts too much when you have to look back at the money wasted you could have saved towards the right stuff to begin with, when the cheap stuff you paid that money for sits on the bench worthless scrap.
If you wish to go AC variable speed, or VFD as they call it, you might try this place. They can supply you with a motor and controller for a pretty good price. The AC unit is harder to setup initially, beyond that, and the fact that it can maintain better torque in certain situations, I've not used one.
http://www.dealerselectric.com/
They're right on the first page, about 2/3rds down. You can get by with slightly less HP with AC than DC. So depending on what you have plans for, a 1-1.5 would probably work fine. If you're driving a multi wheel belt grinder, I'd go the 1.5.
Good luck however you go.