Martin,

These are "old-fashioned" inverters in that they contain several capacitors instead of being digital with chips etc.

You will of course need a 3-phase motor to run from it, but there are usually some on ebay.   Its capacity of 2HP is a bit overkill for a Myford lathe, I would expect to use a maximum of 1 HP on a Myford, and ¾ HP is sufficient for an ML7    However this inverter will run a smaller motor.

Most important for something like this one with an unknown history is DON'T connect it up without reading a manual. The capacitors age if not used, and need to be revived by the careful application of lower voltages, in stages, up to the normal working voltage. If connected up without this it will probably explode in a puff of the magic smoke.

If you message me with your email address I will send you a pdf of the operating manual.   With this and the help of your friend you can decide if its a good'un.   Can't send this through the forum message system as it will not permit pdf attachments, only jpeg.

If you are near Chorley, Lancs I can lend you a 3-phase motor to try it out in due course.

Phil

Edited By Robbo on 19/12/2015 14:12:40

Martin,

Further to my previous post, the "renovation" instructions are below. You will need to use a Variac or other adjustable output to carry them out.

1.3.3 Installation after a Period of Storage

It is necessary to reform the capacitors in the inverter if the unit has been stored for a prolonged period.

• Period of storage 1 year old or less:

No reforming is required.

• 1 – 2 years old:

Apply power to the inverter one hour before giving the run command. (Preparation time 1 Hour)

• 2 – 3 years old:

Use a variable AC supply. Apply 25% of input voltage for 30 minutes. Increase volts to 50% for a further

30 minutes. Increase volts to 75% for further 30 minutes. Increase volts to 100% for a further 30 minutes.

Now ready for run signal. (Preparation Time 2 hours)

• 3 years and over:

As with 2 – 3 years, but the steps should be 2 hours. (Preparation Time 8 Hours

Phil

A variac is basically a variable auto transformer…..

Be Very Aware….it does not provide isolation from the mains…….

You could of course, power up your inverter using a 100 watt light bulb in series with the incoming mains supply, this in effect will limit the initial in rush current if you dont happen to have a variac in your back pocket…one more bit of advice, change the fuse in the plug for a 3 amp one…..for initial testing, then swap for a larger once you are up,and running….