Re: VFD?

>What advantange would I have by adding a vfd.

Zafar:

I've got the same machine. I am using a Leeson VFD. I use the VFD a
lot for edge finding with my LED edge finder. I run the spindle at
maybe 10 rpm so I can see when the edge finder is touching the work
at the limit of the run out.

It's also real handy with the centering indicator I use a lot to
position at the center of a hole. Again, real slow RPMs work for me.

If you are cutting something and having trouble with chatter and need
to tweak the speed as you are cutting it is much easier.

You can regulate your accell & decel which can be easier on the
machine and not so rude to your power line. No flicker of the lights
every time you bring 2 HP on line.

FWD / REV is about the same. I have not tried to program and / or
wire mine for tapping operations so I can flip it back and forth
between FWD & REV without stopping but I've read about it being done.
If I drive it with the computer or some creative electronics I'm sure
this kind of cycle would be nice and save me $$$ for a Tapmatic. Need
to work on that one.....

You can over speed your motor. People routinely run at 120 hz. with
standard bearings, but the older the motor the more risky this is of
course. Heat is the enemy. Bearings that are not rated for double the
RPMs could be at risk, maybe.

Running at low speed for prolonged periods can be risky too 'cause
the fan is not spinning as fast as it should be. But you could be
cranking out as much energy.

Depending on the VFD you can do more.

Hope that helps.