Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Is Single Phase Adequate?

natchamp_87 wrote:

>Sorry if this is a stupid question. I am planning out my CNC mill
>project and haven't bought a mill yet, but am leaning towards a BP or
>similar 9/42. My question is: am I being realistic or not in
>thinking single phase will be adequate for my mill? I know about the
>single to three phase converters but want to avoid that if possible.
>Am I also correct in that my CNC motors, whether servo or steppers,
>will not require 3 phase because I will have a power supply
>converting to DC for them? Sorry again if these are dumb questions.
>
>

It depends on how much of the existing machine you plan on re-using.
Bridgeport BOSS
machines generally have a 3-phase power supply that is hard to retrofit
for single-phase
power. The spindle motor can be handled with a VFD, so that is a small
problem.
Many smaller, non-Bridgeport brand CNC machines use single phase for the
axis drives,
or can be fairly easily set up to run from single phase power. As long
as you can provide
the proper DC power source for the axis drives, then even a machine that
has a 3-phase
transformer can be converted, it is just more work.

The power requirements for axis motion on a machine with a 9x42" table
are not great.
I'm running the CNC computer, axis drives, coolant system, work lights,
etc. all off one
15 A 115 V outlet, and not even straining it. I even ran a shop vac
from the same outlet
simultaneously to suck up plastic shavings on one job.

Jon