Help with Lathe build

[PolarbearHug]

Hi All,

It's my first time posting here so please let me know if I selected the right Forum.

I got a 2nd hand lathe at practically free. I don't have a model number but wanted to just try my hand at making shavings, nothing serious. The issue is that the motor it came with is a 24v DC motor, rated for 36A. I have no idea how to wire that up. Any advice on what parts I'd need to connect that to the mains? I know very little about electronics besides the standard household DIY. Any advice would be awesome, I just don't know where to even start looking for a solution.

Thanks in advance,
Dave

[NCArcher]

Low voltage DC motors are usually repurposed from a treadmill or something similar. They work pretty good but you need the speed controller that goes with it.
Search for a 240V input/ 24V, 40A DC output speed controller. I had a quick look on eBay but couldn't find anything suitable. There are plenty of speed controllers there that would suit but they are DC input as well as output.

[Old Hilly]

Jaycar have a speed controller kit that would probably do the job. Where you are going to find a 24V, 36 Amp power transformer could be the problem. Perhaps, just perhaps, one of those cheap little arc welders with a big rectifier and heatsink might do the job?

[brainstrust]

From a dumb guy!!! Can you at all afford 600 to 700 bucks for a new lathe? If you can it will avoid a lot of hassles and will be good to go and do you for years. If you can't I'm no help but truly wish you luck. Someone here will get you turning I trust :U

[hughie]

DC whilst supplying good speed control, is very unforgiving if you get zapped, also quality controllers are not cheap. The various AC controllers are just as good although you might need some assistance in the set up along with a 240 motor.
If you go ahead with DC just make sure all your earthing is working well and the the main frame/bed of the lathe is earthed