Can I make this motor variable speed?

[DeanHensler]

Attached are some pictures of the motor I've got. Its powered by 110v AC. Right now it just has an on/off switch. Is there a way to make this motor variable speed?

 

[itsmoked]

Sorry, no.

Keith Cress
kcress -

http://www.flaminsystems.com

 

[ScottyUK]

Single-phase motors with capacitors in the start or run circuits are pretty much single-speed machines.

You might be able get a 3-phase motor of equal output in the same or a smaller frame size, and then use a little VFD to to control it. The VFD part is the easy bit in that case - the mechanical arrangement might be a little more challenging. It's hard to tell what the load is, and how the motor is coupled to it.

 

[Skogsgurra]

Yes, you can!

Remove the capacitor and switch. Get yourself a VFD and "teach" it. If the motor isn't designed for permanent helper winding operation, then keep the centrifugal switch. And make sure you get an el cheapo VFD that doesn't mind if the load is unbalanced.

A VFD produces a better phase displacement than a capacitor ever can.

Gunnar Englund

http://www.gke.org

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Half full - Half empty? I don't mind. It's what in it that counts.

 

[DeanHensler]

It sounds like it might be cheaper to buy a variable speed motor with some kind of controller. anyone have any recommendations on a motor that will produce the same amount of torque as this one and allow me to vary the speed?

 

[Skogsgurra]

Cheaper, simpler, safer. You got it.
Special solutions can be necessary if the motor has special dimensions that cannot be had with a standard motor.

Gunnar Englund

http://www.gke.org

--------------------------------------
Half full - Half empty? I don't mind. It's what in it that counts.

 

[itsmoked]

Yes, you're probably correct.

You want good advice tell us A LOT more so we can advise you from an informed position.

What power do you have?

What is this motor doing?

What is its duty cycle?

What is the environment; dusty, wet, outdoors?

A lot of electronic controls around?

Why do you want the speed to change?

Could a "speed controller" be mounted near this motor or how far away?

Does your facility seem to have any power problems?


Keith Cress
kcress -

http://www.flaminsystems.com

 

[waross]

Automation direct will sell you a 0.5 HP rated, inverter rated motor in a 56C frame with a rigid base.
This should be a drop in fit.
Avoid a 56T motor, the shaft will be a different diameter.
You will probably have to supply 230 Volts, either directly or with a transformer.
You will probably get a service factor of 1.15 instead of 1.25.
If you are going to run the motor at maximum rated torque continuously this may be a problem.
In the overwhelming percentage of applications the 1.15 service factor should be adequate.

Bill
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"Why not the best?"
Jimmy Carter

 

[shallywawa]

I think you can.