variable speed electric motor help.

[Ryster1327]

I need to build a small conveyor belt. I must be able to fine tune the speed of the belt (it must move about 16'' every 45 seconds-very slow). What kind of motor do I need? Could I use a 110v, 60hz pump motor and a speed control? thank you!

 

[roydm]

If your conveyor is very small and intermittent service perhaps you could adapt an electric drill, or something like a car screen-wiper or window-winder that would give you a reduction gearbox as well.
You won't be able to find a single phase variable speed induction motor
If it's in continuous service a 3 phase motor and VFD would be more reliable. You can run the VFD on single phase at a reduced output.
Hope this helps
Roy

 

[TurbineGen]

Ryster, what are your power/torque requirments? Have you considered a stepper motor? If the conveyor is indeed small and the power requirments are low, the stepper motor may be your best option for intermittent use. If it is going to be a continuous load, an AC induction motor and gearbox might be easier.

For the stepper motor, what you'll need to do is calculate the torque required and the rest is easy. You'll vary your step frequency to vary your speed. This can be used with a gearbox to increase torque if necessary.

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If it is broken, fix it. If it isn't broken, I'll soon fix that.

 

[roydm]

Good suggestion TurbineGen, I wish I had thought of that.
Roy

 

[itsmoked]

Or use a Slo-Syn AC synchronous motor (72RPM +/-0RPM) and just gear it correctly.

Like this:

http://mcsupplyco.com/uploads/productlayouts/ProductDetailDisplay.asp?DirectLink=true&ProductID=1227

From here:

http://mcsupplyco.com/uploads/Manufacturers/Superior.asp

You can find them pretty cheaply on Ebay or I have some used ones,(excellent shape), laying around I'd sell you for cheap.

Keith Cress
kcress -

http://www.flaminsystems.com

 

[DickDV]

Sounds like a perfect application for a plain old 90VDC plate drive and permanent magnet motor. Plug it into 120VAC single phase and away you go.

Been done enough times to almost be a sure bet!