Variable Speed Conversion

[Cartierusm]

I was wondering if anyone can help me. I have a bridgeport type mill with a 3 phase motor running in a phase converter and very little money. I want to me the head variable speed so I don't have to change belt positions anymore. Is there a tutorial online anywhere I haven't looked that descibes options for doing this short of buying a variable speed head? Is there a speed control device like those used on routers?

[NEATman]

http://web1.automationdirect.com/adc...V-z-Hz_Control)
$125 (GS1-21P0)or $155 (GS1-22P0), depending if you have a 1HP or a 2HP motor. Eliminates the need for the phase converter, and makes the motor variable speed. If you need the 3 phase to power the controller, it's a bit more involved - If it is only the spindle motor, this is for you - and you could sell your phase converter.

NEATman

[Al_The_Man]

check out VFD's on ebay, 230v 2~3hp. Single phase in three phase out and speed control.
Al

[Cartierusm]

Thanks a lot guys. I knew CNCzone wouldn't let me down. I had bad dreams about finding a motor building some adapter working with belts. But this solutions is awesome! Hell, it's about as expensive as my 3 Phase converter I already have, which cost me $100. Maybe I'll keep it in case I get another 3 Phase tool.

Should I be looking at anything special when shopping for one. I usually go with brand names I recognize, but these are all foreign to me. I know I have to have the right HP, but is there anything else?

I take once I hook one of these up I just put my motor on the faster belt and let the VFD take over?

[NEATman]

Cartierusm-
Do a search for VFD here on CNCzone. There are loads of posts that deal with this topic. Also, many people here have had great luck with automation direct. Keep in mind that a VFD is a constant torque device, so if you run the motor at 30 hz (1/2 speed) it will only have about half the torque. For most operations you will never be near full power (drilling, small & medium end mills) you can just push a button/twist the knob and get the speed you want. For heavier face milling or tapping, it would be best to select a different belt combo to maximize torque.

I have a 5 hp toshiba VFD on my varihead Bridgeport (a bit redundant I know...) but it's a hell of a lot more electrically efficient than a phase converter, and it's easier to wire, and it's much quiter than having a phase converter droning away.

NEATman

[Cartierusm]

Thanks. I did a seach for VFD and nothing came up. I will try again.

[Cartierusm]

I guess the string "VFD" is too small or somthing. I can't pull anything up. Doesn't matter I found the section dealing with it.

[mxtras]

http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showthread.php?t=42337

http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showthread.php?t=10535

http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showth...594#post121594

Scott