help with variable speed

B

billf

Joined
Oct 9, 2003
Messages
1,560
I'm looking for a little help with regard to converting a 1.5 HP Bader III to variable speed. I'ne read the threads extolling the virtues of this, and having tried one, I agree. I already installed the smaller drive pulley, which helps some, but still really too high for working with small wheels, finishing etc.
I don't know if it matters, the motor is a 115v 1.5 HP LEESON, which came with the grinder (bought it new about 4-5 years ago)

I'm not an electrician, but can handle the basics.

So, what do the gurus here suggest - how to do and where to get what I need?

Thanks

Bill
 
My three grinders use DC variable speed motors, and controls.

If I was to do it over again today, I'd get AC, variable frequency drive stuff.

It's not only less expensive, but you won't have any torque loss. Unlike DC variable.

This place has about the best prices for a complete setup. Look at the first couple(1 & 2 HP versions) on the top left, at $323.00, and $425.00.

They come with complete instructions, and don't let the name fool you, these variable frequency setups mean variable speed.
http://www.dealerselectric.com/
 
Mike
Thanks for the help! I take it to go this route I'd have to replace my Leeson motor with their motor + controller ? I'd also need to go to a 220 circuit presumably.

Any resonable way to use my existing motor, or am I just going to regret it in the long run?

Bill
 
You will need to replace your 115 vac motor.
What you will need is a 230vac 3 phase motor--1 1/2 hp will work ok, but 2 hp is much better. When buying a variable frequency drive make sure that the one you get will run off single pahse input, some will not. Also, keep in mind that VFD's from several years ago did not have good low end torque, the newer ones have GREAT low end.

Mike
 
billf said:
Mike
Thanks for the help! I take it to go this route I'd have to replace my Leeson motor with their motor + controller ? I'd also need to go to a 220 circuit presumably.

Any resonable way to use my existing motor, or am I just going to regret it in the long run?

Bill
Click to expand...

Yep, you replace with their motor, and control unit, and yes, you have to get a 220 line run. That's not real expensive though, and any qualified electrician can do it for you pretty easy, and usually quickly.
You could even have a sub panel for your shop installed. That would allow for lots of future expansion, as far as outlets, and other electrical needs go.

The only way to use your existing motor is just as you are now.

Buy a 9" sanding disk, and mount that on the motor. You then have instant disk sander. They really come in handy. That's what I did with my single phase, AC motors when I first went to variable speed.

I've since replaced one of them with a DC variable speed motor, and control.

http://www.knifeandgun.com/catalog/equipment_186657_products.htm
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top