Speed controler

[Gilbert Misson]

Hi. I am new to this forum, So Hi to everyone. I may be in the wrong forum to ask this question so if I am tell me. I have a big Wood lathe that is driven with a three horse power single phase AC motor, At the moment I have got the lathe pulled down for a bit of maintenance. The lathe drives through two gearboxes & I am wondering if there is a speed control that I could fit to the motor to do away with the gear boxes. they have been there for twenty five years still going strong, but would like to change to a electronic speed control As I am giving my gear to my grandson & would like it a bit simpler for him to use. Thank you.
Gilbert.

 

[Bluejets]

Not a simple task and could end up expensive.

Also depends on motor type ie series or induction motor.

 

[Minder]

One answer is to fit a 3 phase motor and use a VFD, this is what many do in those applications.
Another is to fit one of the larger treadmill DC motors and a DC drive.
M.

 

[kellys_eye]

Gearing offers torque multiplication - can your motor supply the required torque WITHOUT them?

 

[Minder]

With a VFD set to max 120Hz , a 4 pole motor normally ran on 50/60Hz can run at x2 rpm, so a low or intermediate pulley can be used.
M.

 

[Gilbert Misson]

Thanks for your advice, It seems like it could be a expensive option,Changing motors involves to much work as the machine has a lot of other gear built around the motor. I think at this point I will go through the gearboxes & check them out & refit the boxes to the lathe. It will probably do another 25 years by that time my grand son will be familiar with the workings of the lathe. & he can decide weather he wants to go down the electronics track.
Gilbert.