Speed Control

[Steve Power]

I have recently purchased a Woodfast MC908 lathe. I am interested to know if it is possible to convert the belt drive to a VSD. If so, does anyone know from where (preferably WA) I could purchase a VSD and how much am I likely to pay. I have 2 x 0.75HP motors, single phase and 3 phase.

[macca2]

Steve............page 188 of Carbatec Cattledog advitises an electronic variable speed control that they say can be retro fitted to any lathe. 30-3000 rpm 240volt.
Available in 2 sizes. to suit 0.37kw motor, and 1.5kw motor.
They say the price is SPOA, so who knows.
Hope this helps

Macca

[gatiep]

Would be close but under $1000 I would think. It's a Vicmarc unit.

[Baz]

Steve, a couple of years ago I converted my Shellharbour lathe to electronic speed control. From memory the unit was about $1250, you will need a 3 phase motor 2 hp motor, your bigest problem will be fitting the motor as most of the 3 phase motors are a fair bit larger. If motor size is a problem you can get one of the euro motors from Vicmarc but they are a fair bit dearer.
Cheers
Barry

[paul.cleary]

A speed control unit for a 0.75HP single phase induction motor from PDL Electronics in New Zealand costs around NZ $750 (including GST). This works out to around AU $650 (incl GST). Complicated to set up but it will give you the variable speed you are after.
Paul

[Steve Power]

Thanks guys. I'll check out Carba-Tec, have catalogue (should have opened eyes!)