Question about Electronics and Grinder

[Scott Brandstetter]

Electrical work is not my specialty.......

I have a Jet grinder that is 3450 rpm single speed. I was wondering if I can go to grainger type store and buy a regulator that will make this a variable speed grinder. Was thinking of using it with my Beale buffs. Any thoughts on what I would order, has anyone done this?

[Dave Cullen]

Single phase induction motors can't be speed controlled. Sorry.

[Steve Baumgartner]

Single phase induction motors can't be speed controlled. Sorry.

Not true. A Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) could do it.

[Charles Taylor]

A Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) could do it.

Most single-speed grinders have capacitor-start motors, I believe, which aren't compatible with VFDs.

[Dave Cullen]

Not true. A Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) could do it.

They only work with 3 phase motors.

Most single-speed grinders have capacitor-start motors, I believe, which aren't compatible with VFDs.

Correct. And the Jet is just that, according to the manuals.

[John Lanciani]

They only work with 3 phase motors.

Actually, no. VFD's can be readily made to work on single phase induction motors provided that said motor does not have a centrifical switch. (Many European single phase motors dont use centrifical switches, they use either timers in the start circuit or operator controlled (push and hold to start) schemes).

I fully understand that this is not likely relevant to the discussion at hand but it is pertinent none the less for general understanding.