Replies

1. 
   QCInspector | Oct 17, 2008 12:17pm | #1

   http://www.factorymation.com/

   Look in the AC Drive section.

2. 
   RickL | Oct 17, 2008 02:34pm | #2

   You will be limited to 220 volts unless the motor is 1 hp or less then there is a possibility of running it on 120 V single phase. They don't list all the conversion sizes on the charts at Factorymation. Many only list it as three phase to three phase. Must be derated for single phase running which basically means stepping up a couple of units higher. The tech can explain it. DO NOT make a judgement on the size unit without talking to the tech!!!  Some older motors are not conducive to VFD's so you would have to go Rotary.

   My Blount patternmakers lathe had a four speed motor and that would require a Rotary converter for optimum usage.  I don't think you posted the full details on what you have.

   http://www.phaseperfect.com  is the fourth conversion option few know about. The metal guys  are much more savvy than the wood guys on phase conversion. Woodforums aren't the best source of conversion info. More incorrect info is on the forums than correct.

1. 
   Windwoodtrader | Oct 17, 2008 03:59pm | #3

   Thanks for the info, RickL. I haven't purchased the beast yet but have been advised to do so by many woodworkers. Since you owned one what's your take and advice.How did your rotary work?
   Thanks-
   Windwood(:-)

   Windy Wood

   In the Helderberg Mountains of NY

1. 
   RickL | Oct 17, 2008 04:46pm | #4

   It worked fine. Rotary converters are pretty solid and simple. Mine was home made. I recommend you get a static and a slave motor to cobble one up. http://www.phase-a-matic.com has the info on their site to do it. Still recommend you talk to the techs on the details. You should hook up a sub panel to do so. You do need to run wire as if it's a single phase motor. Impossible to list all the specific details on the subject.

   On VFD and varible speed...you need to typically have a step pulley to get the lower speeds on a VFD. All the newer lathes use VFD's and a 2 step pulley to get the full range. Trying to run the motor on the lowest speed with a VFD will cause the motor to overheat and loss of torque. There's more to it than meets the eye. Most of the folks overlook the details or are talking thjrought their armpit with no real experience. Look at the specs on Oneway lathes.

1. 
   Windwoodtrader | Oct 18, 2008 04:33am | #5

   Thanks, RickL-
   I appreciate the info and will review the Oneway specs.
   WindyWindy Wood
   In the Helderberg Mountains of NY