Variable Speed Motor for Taig Lathe?

[Danuzzo]

Let me preface this thread by saying that I know very little about electronics. However, I want to modify my Taig lathe by replacing the AC motor with one that I can use a reduced speed. The lowest spindle speed on the stock Taig is around 525 rpm. I have seen that many have converted to a DC motor with variable speed. Also many have used a Sherline motor and controller. I like the Sherline idea; but, I don't like the price, about $380.00 with shipping.

I am looking (and have searched the web) without success for a less expensive alternative that I could just basically just drop in as far as the electronics are concerned. I just don't know what to buy as far as a separate motor and compatible controller. Any info in this regard would be greatly appreciated.

 

[djc]

A motor and controller off an industrial sewing machine could be a good fit. These are available from overseas sellers at a good price.

What you would have to look at is how to control the speed - the standard foot control used on a sewing machine would not be suitable. In this sense, there are no electronics involved, just a re-engineering of the mechanical part of the speed control. You would also need to make the motor pulley compatible with the Taig pulley.

A small three phase motor and VFD could be an option, but is less plug-and-play than above. The physical wiring is simple, but you have to decide if programming (consisting of setting multiple parameters of) the VFD fits comfortably in your skill set.

 

[timo_gross]

Let me preface this thread by saying that I know very little about electronics. However, I want to modify my Taig lathe by replacing the AC motor with one that I can use a reduced speed. The lowest spindle speed on the stock Taig is around 525 rpm. I have seen that many have converted to a DC motor with variable speed. Also many have used a Sherline motor and controller. I like the Sherline idea; but, I don't like the price, about $380.00 with shipping.

I am looking (and have searched the web) without success for a less expensive alternative that I could just basically just drop in as far as the electronics are concerned. I just don't know what to buy as far as a separate motor and compatible controller. Any info in this regard would be greatly appreciated.

How much power does the old motor have? What rpm range? I bought the drill press with a 3-phase motor and put a 2nd hand VFD on it. (can be adjusted with a knob now, and it can run in reverse) *VFD runs from a single phase outlet*

Some sewing machine motors seem to come with a control box and knob for speed control. (look for Sewing machine servo motor.) Seems it requires a 220V input to the thing (single phase) and claims 200 - 6000 rpm.