Spindle question

[KMD]

If you could go back and buy your machine new again what spindle would you put on it? I would like a tool change but the bank says no so lets rule that out now.

Does any one know if all the spindles are certified to be used in Canada I do know that the alpha machines are certified but was wondering about the spindle. The electricians won't hook stuff up with out all the ulc and csa stickers in place.

thanks

[Bob Eustace]

HSD as sero problems.

[gerryv]

Hi Kirk,
I just bought one recently from Shopbot so just opened the box and looked on all sides. Looks like it is CE approved but I see no CSA(c) or UL(c) stickers. There is a code number shown that maybe would be needed to clarify so I'll attic a pic. of mine. It's a 3KW (4 HP) HSD

If you planning on just replacing yours with an equivalent one then I don't think you'd need an electrician would you because it's just male/female connectors?

Also, if you're ordering a new one that's the same, you would not need to order the whole setup including the VFD, just the spindle. It's not shown that way in the price list but BIG difference in price. :)

[coryatjohn]

I ordered my SB with the 2.2HP HSD but after I got it, I got second thoughts on the spindle and traded it in on the 4HP model (about $800 more). I think it was a solid decision.

[Simops]

I have the same as Bob.....2.2hp HSD spindle and no problems past 3 years.
I don't use for high production output......otherwise I would go for the 4 hp model.

Cheers

[gundog]

Spindle HP depends on the work you are going to do. It you are removing large quantities of material with big cutters get the most HP you can otherwise you are just running a bigger motor. Electrical draw won't be a huge difference but when you factor in all the costs you might be able to buy more tooling or some other gadget for the money saved IMHO.

Is the tool an Alpha if not you will be limited by move speeds so the big HP spindle won't help much but if it is an Alpha and you are cutting aggressively it would make a difference?

My machine has a Columbo 3HP spindle and has worked fine for me.

[Brady Watson]

For a single tool spindle - Colombo 5hp - bar none. I rebuilt mine after cutting a ton of parts (like 500,000+)...It's still going after 13yrs. I haven't needed to put my 'spare' one into service. It's still sitting on the shelf unused. It's a real workhorse & a 400Hz spindle (24,000 RPM max).

I run (and have run) the HSD spindles, but they are not my number 1 choice. The Colombo is a bit heavy for the Desktop & overkill on a BT :D

-B