Info on Spindle motors

[shadybacon]

Doesn't anyone know of a resource that explains about spindle motor/controllers? I am ready to upgrade my cnc from the PC 3 1/4hp router to a 5-10hp spindle and am looking for information to help me make an informed decision. Specificly how are the motors/frequency inverters paired? will any work with any provided they have compatible power output?
If anyone could post a link to a site with this kind of info it would be much appreciated.
jon

[ger21]

I don't have the answers to your questions, but keep in mind that a 3HP spindle will have much more power than the 3-1/4HP Porter Cable, so you may be able to save some money by not needing a 5-10HP spindle. What kind of machine is this going on?

[Al_The_Man]

I assume you are looking at VFD's for 3phase motors? If so there is quite alot of information at various Manuf. sites, such as WEG, Hitachi, Mitsubishi, Baldor.
Some have certain restrictions on HP when using single phase input.
Keep in mind that your top rpm will not be as high as a 1ph Universal motor.
The highest VFD's go to are around 300~400hz = 9000~12000rpm for a 2 pole motor, and this has to be a Vector drive rated motor. An ordinary 3ph motor will only allow around 3600rpm tops.
Al.

[ger21]

Al, i think he's talking about a spindle like a Columbo, Perske, HSD...

[Al_The_Man]

Originally Posted by shadybacon Specificly how are the motors/frequency inverters paired?

Gerry, I though that at first, but the mention of 'frequency inverters' led me to believe the induction motor route was sought
Al.

[shadybacon]

Actually, I was speaking of spindles like Columbo, etc. Sorry, its hard to be specific when you don't know what you're talking about.
I am thinking of buying a used 7 1/2 hp spindle (forget which brand) and am curious about all the other stuff one needs to make it work (cant just plug it in and go). I can run 3 phase into the router area of the shop. I was using the term 'frequency inverter' to describe the control box that regulates the spindle speed, perhaps thats not the right term. My question is will any control unit work with any motor (provided power/hp, etc. are the same) or must they be paired using some other criteria. Also, do I want liquid cooled, compressed air or fan and how does the price/performance compare among each of these.
I know very little about high speed spindles (currently using a Porter Cable router) but I need more horse power for the current job I'm working on (3" think pressure treated pine) Any and all information you guys can give me will be greatly appreciated.
Jon

[Al_The_Man]

Your Porter cable is probabally a Universal motor, which is much cheaper than the high speed 3ph like Colombo, the Universal motor has the highest hp for low weight/volume/price etc.
You will need a frequency inverter type drive, however and as I mentioned earlier, most go up to 300~400 hz. You will need 300hz to get 18000 rpm from something like the Colombo type of 3ph motor.
You can pretty much use any make of control, some have more features than others and some possess self tuning for matching motor to drive. The basic criteria is voltage and HP.
Although I have not had personal experience with this make, someone that has may offer more insight.
Al.

[shadybacon]

Thanks for your help Al. The porter cable is a commercial router and yes its a universial motor. I am going to 7 1/2 hp high speed spindle motor. Do you (or anyone else) know of a resource on the web where I can get the info I need to make an informed decision as to brand, etc.? I have a small shop and at the moment the 3-4k is a large expense for me. I just want to be sure that I make the best choice I can.
Thank you again
Jon