VFD for my mill

[jbobb1]

After doing a vfd conversion on my lathe, I'm wanting to do the same with my mill, which I'm still using a phase converter. Because it's all but impossible to find the Hitachi WJ200-022sf (which is what I used on my lathe), I'm up for some opinions on a alternative. Thanks.

 

[machPete99]

It looks like they might be available at wolfautomation.com.

 

[jbobb1]

I thought so too, until I ordered one and got the unwanted email saying they were out of stock.
Found a used one on eBay, but I'm not too comfortable making an offer. They want 300.00 obo. No returns also.

 

[mksj]

If you want to do a simple setup and do not need fast braking then I would suggest the Teco L510 VFD's. Very easy to setup and and less expensive then the WJ200. They have some degree of braking but do not support an external braking resistor needed for fast stops. They also have a detachable keypad if you buy an extension cable. I typically recommend 3 wire control with momentary buttons for stop and run, and a sustained FOR (no connection) or Reverse (connects to the 3rd input). Also Automation Direct has some the GS20 series which are easy to setup. If you have a question on parameters, I can give you a hand.

 

[jbobb1]

Thank you! I'll probably be asking questions.
I was actually looking at the GS20 as an option. Is using the existing FOR/REV switch on my mill something I could do?
Fortunately, my mill is variable speed, so I don't need to use to many of the features. Or should I be using them?

 

[mksj]

If you have a mechanical vari-speed then it is best using that, vs the VFD speed control. You can use the existing FOR/REV, but often the contacts if previously used will have too high a contact resistance from arching,. A replacement switch is inexpensive with a center off position. You can program most VFD's so they will not start when powered up with a run control on. I just think it is safer and easier to use 3 wire control with momentary buttons. If tapping you can just flip the for/rev switch to change direction.

Seems like they are out of most of the GS20's there is also the GS3 series, but I would suggest the Teco L510 as the least expensive non-generic model. Ironically the prices just keep climbing, the 3 Hp version use to be $180 and is now $280, but in stock at most vendors.

Teco-Westinghouse, L510-203-H1, 3 HP, Variable Frequency Drive 230 Volt, 1 Phase Input, IP20, at Dea

Purchase Teco L510-203-H1-N 3 HP Variable Frequency Drive from Dealers Electric

dealerselectric.com

 

[jbobb1]

I see the GS21-23PO is a stock item. They owe me a little bit of credit, so I'm wondering about this unit. I have a older G2 (I think the GS20's replaced these) that I've had for a while, but it's only 2 hp

 

[jwmelvin]

I really like the GS20 I got to run my mill (the exact model you mention).

 

[mksj]

I did a recent lathe control system using the GS20, worked just fine and the programming software was very easy to use (did not use the keyboard, which seemed more difficult). Just load the software, connect the VFD (does not need to be powered) to your computer, and any changes you make immediately make the changes on the VFD. Always been very happy with Automation Direct's components, and addressing any issues or technical problems.

 

[rabler]

FWIW, I would guess that the real-time microcontrollers in the VFDs are the same ones used by many automobile manufacturers, although obviously different software. If not the same chips, at least competing for slots on the same assembly line. The chip shortage is probably driving most VFD manufacturers to wait on manufacturing and raise price on existing inventory.