Vfd info

J

Jax knives

Joined
May 25, 2020
Messages
59
My Origin grinder came with a 3450 rpm, 1.5 hp single phase motor. I'm wanting to upgrade to a Vfd.

I'm left with the option of either buying a single phase input/output Vfd to use with the motor I presently have or buy a 3 phase motor to utilize the 3 phase output Vfd that is typical in this application.

Don't have a problem buying the single phase output Vfd but not sure of what Vfd manufacture offers a Nema sealed inclosure for grinder application

Anybody else faced this scenario or have suggestions and advice that may help?
 
I use a AC Tech SM Vector VFD on my Pheer grinder. KBAC is another popular brand. Both are sealed and NEMA rated for grinding applications. The AC Tech has a digital speed readout which is convenient.
 
Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith said:
You need 1Ph in and 3Ph out. The motor needs to be 3Ph.
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Not true, not common but they are made and available. I just wondered if anyone had bought a grinder without the Vfd option(single speed/single phase motor) then upgraded to a Vfd at a later date.
Trying to avoid buying both vfd and another motor. Not sure what the cost difference is between a 3 phase output vfd and 1 phase output Vfd or in a nema 4 enclosure.

I was hoping someone on here had already done the research/ leg work. lol
 
As "The Count" said, there are such things, but there is a good reason you never heard of a knifemaker using one. They don't run just any 1Ph motor, they are very expensive, and they really don't do what we want on a grinder.
 
Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith said:
As "The Count" said, there are such things, but there is a good reason you never heard of a knifemaker using one. They don't run just any 1Ph motor, they are very expensive, and they really don't do what we want on a grinder.
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I'm aware, I just happen to be a industrial/control electrician for some 35 years. Never stated they are the most efficient.
 
Keep your eye on craigslist for motors. Not many people in the market for 3ph motors so they can come cheap. I got a 3HP Baldor 3Ph motor with about 25' of wire for $40 on criagslist this year, coupled with with a $90 VFD (non sealed) off amazon and I was up and running on VFD in a night. THe VFD may eventually crap out as I'm not being overly insane about sealing it up so if it fails within 3 years I'll just get a fully sealed one. The VFD I bought has a 12' wired remote control so my actual VFD is in a completely separate room on the other wide of the wall, only the controller is in my shop.

I am still running a pulley setup as my KMG is not a direct drive but its more than I'll ever need. I'm using those v-links and I can't stall the motor or force the belt to slip by grinding.

Unless you demand brand new equipment, the motor cost shouldnt be a big deal.
 
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