I have a new to me Haas VF-1 on its way from Erie PA. I have been running a VFD on my Bridgeport and a static on my Southbend but obviously the Haas needs good 3 phase to run right. I thought of just buying a phase converter ready to go but they get very expensive when you get up in horsepower. So I have located a 20HP 3500 rpm motor. I wanted to go 15HP, double the mills rated HP was recommended, but this is the best I could find in my area for the right price. I can also run the two other machines at the same time and not have to worry about power with this motor. My questions and concern are as follows;
1. What size breaker do I need to run from my service panel?
2. What would be the recommended starteing method for a motor this big?
3. Balance by amperage or voltage? I don't know how close the balance needs to be for CNC.
Thank you for any input!
Steve
Here is a picture of the motor plate.
![]()
Last edited by autotechsteve; 11-05-2011 at 07:02 PM.