Vector Drive recomendation please...

[HawkJET]

I am in the process of moving my shop to a new location that does NOT have three phase available. I am expecting to use vector drives for my machines instead. I will have 220 volt single phase available.

My machines are:
1. surface grinder (3/4 HP)
2. Bridgeport BOSS retrofit (2 HP)
3. Bridgeport clone (2 HP)
4. 13 X 38 Toolroom Lathe (3 HP)
5. Series II Bridgeport N/C retrofit (4 HP).

Can anyone recommend a good Vector Drive for these? Price is a concern but I want decent quality.

I only need to provide three phase for motors. The retrofit controls are powered from 110 volt single phase.
THANKS!

[Sparky_NY]

Originally Posted by HawkJET I am in the process of moving my shop to a new location that does NOT have three phase available. I am expecting to use vector drives for my machines instead. I will have 220 volt single phase available. My machines are: 1. surface grinder (3/4 HP) 2. Bridgeport BOSS retrofit (2 HP) 3. Bridgeport clone (2 HP) 4. 13 X 38 Toolroom Lathe (3 HP) 5. Series II Bridgeport N/C retrofit (4 HP). Can anyone recommend a good Vector Drive for these? Price is a concern but I want decent quality. I only need to provide three phase for motors. The retrofit controls are powered from 110 volt single phase. THANKS!

It is going to cost quite a bit because you will need a VFD for each machine. A rotophase might be a much more economical solution for you, a single 5-10hp unit or so will run everything at once. It is not uncommon to take the rotophase output and feed it to a 3ph breaker box where your machines are then connected.

Going prices for 2hp VFD units are approx $200-$250 and rise quickly with increased HP ratings. a 4hp unit I would not be surprised to be close to $500.

Alternately, you can make your own rotophase, all you need is a 10hp 3ph motor, a few capacitors, a switch, a relay, and a specialty relay called a "potential" relay. I helped a friend make one like this that was 15hp.