How to run 3 phase mill from 1 phase 220V?

B

barnett25

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Sep 18, 2008
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I have an old Cincinnati vertical mill that I need to get running, but the motor is a 3HP 3 phase, and I don't have the option of running 3 phase to my garage shop. I know there are different types of phase converters (both that you can buy, and make) but I wanted to see if I could get some specific recommendations on what I need for this use.

Also, does anyone know what is the cheapest way of loading/hauling a 1-1/2 ton milling machine on a stand? I need to move this thing 60 miles as cheaply as possible.
 
I have a lot of experience in this area.....

I've gone the static phase converter route...then the rotary phase converter route...and then Variable frequency drives.

IMHO, Hands down...the best performance, best safety and probably lowest cost in the long run is to use a Variable frequency Drive from the get-go. Make sure it is rated for a full 3hp with your 220 single phase input.

Moving a milling machine....I've used common wreckers from towing companies on several occasions. They are very manuvearable..and the crane can easily dead lift that weight. They cost about $40-60 for a call in my area. Schedule one at the pick up...and perhaps another at the drop-off. Transport the machine on a trailer or in the bed of a truck...or even a roll back from a towing company.

When you set it in place....set it on some steel pipes so you can roll it around like those big dum-dum stone heads on Easter Island. Pull one pipe out from the back an move it to the front...use a spud bar to pinch it into location.

It's big and heavy...but with some cleaver thinking, you can move it by yourself if needed...safely.

I hope this helps.

-Rob
 
I dont mean to hi jack the thread but will this 115v in vfd work for a 110 leeson or what ever 1 hp motor ? what 1 HP motor could i use? thanks kellyw
 
Thanks guys!
I had no idea that I could get that mill running so cheaply. I feel bad now that I have let it sit for so long. Now I just have to convince my wife to let me take up more space in the garage.

BTW, would you expect any problems with running a mill on a garage floor? I was not planning on bolting it down, but then again I wont be doing any really heavy cutting.
 
barnett25 said:
I have an old Cincinnati vertical mill that I need to get running, but the motor is a 3HP 3 phase, and I don't have the option of running 3 phase to my garage shop. I know there are different types of phase converters (both that you can buy, and make) but I wanted to see if I could get some specific recommendations on what I need for this use.

Also, does anyone know what is the cheapest way of loading/hauling a 1-1/2 ton milling machine on a stand? I need to move this thing 60 miles as cheaply as possible.
Click to expand...

barnett25 said:
I'm obviously not an expert, but I'll chime in on this.
It looks like that unit only outputs 3 phase power, and I would think you would want 220V single phase.
Click to expand...

Actually he's specifically looking for 3 Phase power
 
barnett25 said:
..............
BTW, would you expect any problems with running a mill on a garage floor? I was not planning on bolting it down, but then again I wont be doing any really heavy cutting.
Click to expand...

No problem running it on the floor. Actually, I've never heard of anyone bolting one down. I run a 13,000lb vertical machining center everyday...and it sits on the floor.

Back to the VFDs. Yes...you are looking at the right stuff. When you pull the trigger...make sure your VFD is rated for a full 3 hp when using single phase input. Many manufactures rate thier VFDs for the full power with 3ph input...but derate them when single phase input is used. The full load current on a 3 ph motor at 220V is about 10-12Amps...so just double check that the VFD is rated for a simpliar output.

Get that machine and put it to work!!

Have fun, Rob
 
rfrink said:
No problem running it on the floor. Actually, I've never heard of anyone bolting one down. I run a 13,000lb vertical machining center everyday...and it sits on the floor.

Back to the VFDs. Yes...you are looking at the right stuff. When you pull the trigger...make sure your VFD is rated for a full 3 hp when using single phase input. Many manufactures rate thier VFDs for the full power with 3ph input...but derate them when single phase input is used. The full load current on a 3 ph motor at 220V is about 10-12Amps...so just double check that the VFD is rated for a simpliar output.

Get that machine and put it to work!!

Have fun, Rob
Click to expand...


I'll be sure to put it to work, however I realized I am short on tooling. If I had a lathe I could make all of the tooling I need, but I don't think I can find room for that too. I may have to hunt around on e-bay.
 
rfrink said:
Do you know what spindle tooling this machine uses?
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If I recall correctly it is a #30 taper. The manual is at my parent's house, I'll have my dad look tonight.

Edit: Yes, it does take NST 30 adapters. I have a couple end mill adapters, but what I really need to do is make/buy an adjustable flycutter.
 
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