recommend VFD for 480V 3-phase

[Duct Tape Man]

I have the opportunity to get a bench grinder that apparently was used shipboard at some time, for a screamin deal. It's a 1-1/2 HP unit, powered by 480V 3-phase. However, my shop only has 120V and 220V 1-phase. Is there any VFD you guys would recommend to power the grinder off the wall voltage I have? Or is this a lost cause?

 

[A_Pmech]

You'll need a transformer to step your 240V up to 480V and a VFD. Since there are no single-phase input 480V VFDs that I'm aware of, you'll have to use around a 3 HP three-phase VFD on single-phase input.

 

[RPH]

Check the grinder motor and see if it has a low voltage spec. If so, wire that up and get the vfd drive.

 

[PugetDude]

At only 1.5HP, it might be more cost-effective to replace the motor...

 

[Aceman]

Replace the motor, it isn't cost effective to buy all the equipment just to run it on 480v.

 

[paranoid56]

as others have said, check to see if it also has a 220v spec and use that with a vfd. i have heard good things about these.
http://www.temcoindustrialpower.com/products/Variable_Frequency_Drives/C10007.html

 

[Norcal]

Replace the motor, it isn't cost effective to buy all the equipment just to run it on 480v.

On a grinder motor replacement is not a option but either passing on purchasing it, or see if a motor shop can bring out the leads to wire it for 240V, then a VFD could be viable. Unless the parts to run it 480V are free, it is as Aceman says not worth it, plus 480 is not DIY.

 

[A_Pmech]

see if a motor shop can bring out the leads to wire it for 240V

This is a viable option, but will probably cost as much as a small used transformer.

If there's no particular attachment to this grinder, there are many 240V 3-phase grinders in the sub-$500 range on Ebay every day.

 

[toplessHO]

or build a phase converter
but only if you can get it down to 240/208