Spindle/VFD Question

[gerryv]

I'm looking into getting a 4 HP HSD spindle (Shopbot number 12572) from another Shopbotter but I'm confused about what I need to operate it. I've read that a VFD is required (I think). I see that Shopbot sells a speed controller for a Yaskawa VFD but this doesn't appear to be the VFD itself. Does the VFD come as part of the spindle itself? Or, perhaps, does it need to be purchased separately from another supplier?

The other part of my concern is that the spindle in question is a 3-phase and my shop is only 1-phase. I've heard different times that a 3-phase VFD can be "jimmied" to run off 1-phase but I'm wondering if there are downsides to that in lost torque, HP, smoothness or just plain unkindness to the spindle or VFD?

Thanks much,
Gerry

[phil_o]

The VFD is required. It is part of the package when you buy a spindle from Shopbot http://shopbottools.com/mProducts/spindles.htm. The speed controller is an option. It allows you to change the spindle speed from your computer. The speed controller is not an essential item. You can control the speed through the VFD.
Can't help on the phase question.

[ken_rychlik]

Gerald, Why didn't the spindle come with a VFD?

Normally when you have one you have both.

Anyway, yes running off of single phase can be done. Mine is run this way.
You have to upsize the vfd by about 50% or so. Then hook up any of the two inputs to single phase and leave the third input unconnected. So you would need a 6 or 7 hp vfd to handle the 4 hp spindle.

It is 3 phase 220 volt yes right? If it's 380 volt or whatever that higer voltage is, don't listen to any of my advice. lol

If the spindle runs the wrong direction, reverse any two of the output wires to the spindle.

If you get one of the VFD's that shopbot supports, then you can get the spindle speed controller from them. If you want that, check with them before buying a vfd to make sure you get the right model number. I have an off brand and have some simple switches set up at my control station to change spindle speeds.

[knight_toolworks]

all spindles are 3 phase but you buy a single phase vfd with a built in converter.

[kubotaman]

Gerald, I just installed the auto changer so I may be able to part with my HSD 4 HP plus VFD along with speed control. It is about 1 year old and in perfect shape. Contact me if interested. Just PM me.

[gerryv]

I've been looking at spindles and quickly came to realize that I just didn't have enough power available for the 4 HP unit without some major rewiring. I then saw Shopbot offers a 2.2 pkg. so talked to tech support about power requirements because I'm also on single phase and don't want the added cost and noise of a phase converter.

That's where I got confused. Several members indicate they are using the "same" setups as a nice 2.2 HP pkg. that's just been offered on the forum, and these are working fine for them. Excitement. Yet tech support tells me the 2.2 HP HSD spindle requires at least 230V - 24A when using a single phase feed, and I also read it somewhere, whereas the one offered is rated at 230V - 17.5A from what I see in the picture???

So I downloaded the manual. Ahh! It seems the V7-4X is a "type" number for 16 different "models" ranging between 1/4 and 15 HP. According to the manual, the one offered appears to be a Model 23P7 or A017 rated at 17.5 amps output. Other larger V7-4X's are rated at 25 or 33 amps.

... or am I still all mixed up??? :o