Converting Industrial Machine to Hobbyist

[Kanman]

Hey all, I am currently considering the purchase of a mid sized 3 phase CNC machine and converting it back to a single phase CNC controlled wood router machine that will live in my garage/workshop.

Please note; not looking for advice on a 3 phase conversion. I will remove and scrap ALL of the 3 phase equipment, and will be using a standard "off the shelf" 120V router from a big box store.

Anybody ever done anything like this before? Any specific road blocks or deal killers y'all can think of in this transformation? My goal would be to end up with the skeleton of the machine, table, and XYZ. While stripping all electronics, motors, etc; that are currently installed on this machine. I could probably get lucky and salvage a little bit such as the eStop, and the vac table (bonus) of course. It is looking to me like I can pick this table up for peanuts.

I would appreciate any and all constructive advice.

[ger21]

If you're stripping everything, it shouldn't be very difficult. What kind of machine is it?

[Al_The_Man]

Did you actually confirm what was 3 phase, there is not much call for it on a CNC router except the spindle?
IOW, the majority of the machine including the CNC control may already be 1 phase?
Al.

[Kanman]

Machine is a Thermwood 3 axis, model C30.

Not sure if I am violating rules by mentioning, but it is on an auction site currently, so I shall say no more about "where" until I find out what the actual rules are.

I did help a buddy of mine set up a phase converter from three to single phase for a welder a few years back. He purchased that welder from Boeing surplus for an extremely cheap price. Although by the time he spent the money on the converter it dang near wasn't worth it. Thats what got me thinking about purchasing an older industrial machine and then re-wiring it.

Anyways, to be realistic I'll probably pass on this particular unit since its about 1400 mi. from where I live (would take an entire week to go get it and return home) just gotta find one a little closer to home. Not sure it wouldn't fall through the floor on my little 18' enclosed trailer on the way home (at 3K) anyways lol.

I would like to keep this thread rolling and pick you guys brains about what all would be required to make the swap. How big of stepper motors would it take to control this thing assuming I couldn't make the current motors work.

[LeeWay]

You might be able to find VFD that will run the 3 phase motors. Instead of scrapping it. Could save you some real coin and keep the beef.