My answer:
Yes, but it may have more features than you need.
Let me ask some experts.
Do you have any suggestions for a more economical drive that will be dependable?
Any options other than a VFD?
For hobby use can he use a smaller drive and current limit to about 2.5HP or 3 HP?
Thanks.
I have one that was used for an hour before idiots shorted the DC bus to ground blowing it out. I completely painstakingly repaired it with an identical completely new power module (what got blown) and tested it for hours. It’s sitting on my bench. $450.
Thanks Keith.
I have forwarded the information to my friend.
He has not yet bought the lathe.
The much better price for a single phase to three phase conversion may influence his decision.
Is that price from Factorymation, or for the unit on your bench?
Yours
Bill
Hi
Just to fill in some background info on this subject, I was briefly considering buying a 5 HP lathe that I saw coming up at an auction. Since this particular lathe is the exact same one that I used for over 10 years to make so many exciting and interesting projects, this was a sentimental choice. Compared to the crap that one often is stuck with, a lathe like a Colchester Triumph is a delight to use. Sadly, the bidding is already too high, understandably. I also faced the fact that my shop is not equipped for 3-phase equipment, not to mention equipment that weighs about 5000 pounds.
To console my broken heart, I’ve found on Kijiji a much smaller combo-lathe which I can afford, move and power with the facilities that I have. I’ll know by the end of the week if I’m the lucky new owner.