foot pedal switch for your Belt grinder?

I use on/off foot switches on several tools. I highly recommend you pursuing this idea.
Stacy
 
I don’t like the one I have for the die grinder I would like a digital display on the VFD How about a tool rest like the one on the video clip using KMG with some adjustable or optional tool rest in different sizes & a round or D shaped one, not that you asked
 
I use a foot switch on a 9-inch horizontal disc on a 1hp DC variable motor.
For this type machine, I consider a footswitch a must. Set the speed, put the part down on the disc, step on and off the pedal without removing the part from the abrasive until it's stopped. It's the best.

I'm not sure I'd like a variable footswitch, especially on a 2x72. An optional momentary might be useful, though.
 
Great stuff posted here so far!! Thank you!

After looking into it a bit more, there are several options with these foot switches. It can be a simple on/off switch for starting and stopping the machine....but in 2 versions. Momentary, and fixed. For a momentary switch, your machine will run as long as your foot is holding the switch down...when you lift your foot the machine stops. A fixed foot switch allows you to step once to start it and it will continue to run until you step on it again. This will allow you to walk away or move around without having to hold the switch down.

The same options are available with a VS pot pedal for your VFD. It can be momentary, which will require you to hold your foot on it...or fixed, where it will remain in the position that you set it at.

Most of my thinking was for VS applications with a VFD. In this case, the switch carries a low voltage, low current "control signal" to operate the VFD. Things get more complicated on a single speed motor where the foot switch will handle all of the motor current...it would have to be a heavy duty switch...20 amps or so for a 1-1/2hp motor.

always thinking.....

-Rob
 
Just let the foot switch control a socket/box with a SSR or other relay.That way you still have low voltage to the switch.
Stacy
 
I put a foot switch on my disk grinder a few years ago and love it. Frees up my hands and allows me to place what I'm working on on the disk before staring it. I can also vary the speed by tapping the switch.

I can't see alot of benefit having one on a belt grinder though.

I've heard that they are handy on drill presses!

Jon
 
They are very handy on a drill press. It is the ticket because when the bit hangs you can instantly kill the power. Less time than reaching and flipping a swithch. I think it would be great on a disk also. Jim
 
I believe McMaster-Carr sells some:

http://www.mcmaster.com/

Type in "foot switch" and hit search, the "Harsh Environment" ones are recommended. :thumbup:

I'm not too into the idea of a VS foot pedal, wouldn't want to slip and hit "GO!" accidentally. :eek: -Just my .02.
 
Don't think I'd like a VS on a foot switch for the grinder either. How about a voice activated on off.....Any ideas???
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top