Thread: Spindle Moulder - I think I want to cry

Originally Posted by jgforsberg

I've always had an affection for the EP . I had made my conclusions that I wanted one simply based on its historical placement in the wadkin range. Being one of the first electric drive machines has always fascinated me . Obviously the EQ is the EP's predecessor And a much better machine . EP bearings are self aligning Machine bronze cage bearings typical of most early English kit. The EQ on the other hand uses ABEC 5 /7 deep grooved Percision bearings with finalic cages. lubrication is done with wicks and oil mist A proven development for high-speed . Although the EQ is a smart looking machine the EP is far more attractive and blends better with the yearly lines of the PK and JY patternmaking sculpture . Of course none of these things really matter when working in the shop yet I've come to the conclusion that I'd rather have something pretty when we're up at the top splitting hairs .

Jack, its interesting to look at the evolution of the Wadkin spindle molders over the years through the internet pic's and catalogs.
Firstly the flat belt driven EV model, very basic, big long pedestal base, nice and simple machine.
Then the EVF had the first built in motor with in the EV design. F standing for frequency charger.
The ERH was the next build in motor model, robust and more solid than the EV this machine was probably the EQ in the making or at least where Wadkin were heading.
Later of course the EP, many more features than the EV and ER, back to belt driven with the motor slung of the back as apposed to the direct drive set up.
Speed choices, breaking on the spindle etc..
And last the EQ, probably the best Wadkin put together, the base alone weighed 270 kilos, a great shaper to work on !

Melbourne Matty.