Speed controller/Union Graduate

5/5/05, 8:39 PM #1

Steve Spiers
Guest

Speed controller/Union Graduate

Steve Spiers

>Hi, I am looking for some advice about fitting a speed controller/inverter to my Harrison Union Graduate lathe. It is currently fitted with it's stock 3phase 3/4hp motor and I want to be able to control the speed via a variable switch. However the lathe is capable of swinging up to 18" diameter by 6" deep or 12" diameter if limited to 12" deep, and I wonder if the motor rating is a bit under powered. As I'm going to be using some kind of ac controller would it be a good idea to fit a larger motor or would the 3/4 hp cope? Has anyone got any advice on the motor size and type of controller needed. Thanks

Steve Spiers

Re: Speed controller/Union Graduate

5/5/05, 10:15 PM #2

tdaniel
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Re: Speed controller/Union Graduate

tdaniel

>Unless you are using a bowl-saver you have enough hp if you have step pulleys; if you do not have step pulleys you have half enough power. If you are agressive with your gouges you will stall a 2 hp motor occasionally. However, if you are learning the lower power is a blessing. Too much hp can really get you hurt. So, the bottom line is: It all depends on the driver and road conditions:)

TD

Re: Speed controller/Union Graduate

5/6/05, 2:15 AM #3

john lucas
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20,176 posts

Registered: 1/1/04

Re: Speed controller/Union Graduate

John Lucas

>Steve

I had a 1 1/2 horse motor on my Nova 3000 and it wasn't enough for an 18" bowl. Actually it was I turned it but I could stall it pretty easily. I would buy the varible fequency drive and try it out. Then later on I'd buy a bigger motor. John

Re: Speed controller/Union Graduate

5/6/05, 3:03 AM #4

Steve Mushinski
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207 posts

Registered: 1/28/04

Re: Speed controller/Union Graduate

Steve Mushinski

>Steve it is not a case of what is needed as much as what will fit. There is not very much room in the bottom for a really large motor. I installed one for a fellow club member and I think it was a 1 1/2 HP motor with matching controller.

If you are buying new or used just make sure there is room.

Speed controller/Union Graduate

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