Any VFD Users Out There?

I am venturing into the world of VFDs for the first time and I think I’m nearly caught up to speed, but would love some input. If you’re not familiar with the term, it stands for variable-frequency drive and it allows you to run 3 phase equipment from a single phase power source. It’s a solution that many enthusiasts of old machinery have adopted to get industrial equipment running in their home shop.

The reason for my pursuit is that we are cycling the Powermatic 66 out of the Popular Woodworking shop and are bringing in a SawStop. Before I raise my hand to take the 66 home, I want to make sure I have a plan for the 5hp 3 phase motor it packs. I’ve found great information on the Old Woodworking Machine forums but there’s something just not sitting right about the whole situation.

My three-year-old son opened the box, I’m not an animal.

I am certainly not the first owner of this VFD.

Many thumbs have used this manual before…

I’ve already received the VFD that was recommended by the forums in the mail but it came without any packaging and has clearly been used before (at the very least I’m returning for a new one.) Beyond the fact that it isn’t new, I am starting to worry about the fact that this piece of equipment is running a tremendous amount of power and isn’t UL listed in the U.S. Is this really how I want to lose my house? (Or am I being dramatic?)

I’ve put a call in to Powermatic to see what a realistic price would be for a 3hp 1phase motor but I didn’t have the serial number on hand when I called. From what I can tell online, I’m looking at about a $400 factory motor. Then, I’ll need to swap out the magnetic switch for the correct version, another $50.

I am aware that there are other options out there, static converters seem to be popular, but some people claim they are hard on the motor. Perhaps one of you have experience with this?

At this point, I’m really tempted to plunk down the cash for a new motor for the piece of mind. What would you do?

– David Lyell