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New guy

This topic has 5 replies, 4 voices, and was last updated 25 September 2018 at 20:24 by Jon Lawes.

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25 September 2018 at 15:59 #373232
Jay Wyatt
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@jaywyatt10691
Afternoon all,

stumbled on your forum by accident, decided to sign up and here I am.

I’m not a complete newbie, 30 odd years ago I did a year of my apprenticeship in a tool room learning to set and operate mainly a ward capstan and a Bridgeport mill. However a year isn’t that long and I’ve probably forgotten most of what I learned.

I’ve got workshop space and a pretty complete fabrication set up I’ve also got a phase converter. I’m looking buy a lathe and a mill, I’ve noticed that a lot of machines are single phase, so what’s the general consensus about single phase machines against 3 phase machines?

Thanks Jay
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25 September 2018 at 15:59 #40402
Jay Wyatt
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@jaywyatt10691
25 September 2018 at 17:32 #373250
Brian Wood
Participant
@brianwood45127
Hello Jay,

Welcome to the Forum—-not by any chance related to our esteemed Editor Neil?

As you have a phase converter you will have rather more latitude in machine selection from commercial sources and chosen carefully, these may prove to be a much better buy than choosing an import built to a price

The phase itself isn't the deciding factor with machine life and build quality, those that were made to provide a living will have been built for the duty and unless they have been driven into the ground they will usually have years of good quality performance left in them.

Be careful of eBay sales though and machine auctions unless you are happy to bid in those forums—the tool auctions in particular operate what is know as the 'Ten Minute' rule that can force the bidding on well after the due time for closing.

Buyers premium, typically 16% + VAT and VAT on the hammer price will push what you will have to pay up by close to 40% on the hammer price

Having said all that, there are still decent machines that can be picked up close to the cost of a new import which will knock the spots off it.

Regards

Brian
25 September 2018 at 18:27 #373255
Neil Wyatt
Moderator
@neilwyatt
Hi Jay,

I'm assuming we aren't closely related (unless you are from the Bicester/Banbury area?)

Many feel that 3-phase AC gives smoother drive than 1-phase, although plenty of people have no issues with it at all.

Good quality, powerful brushless DC motors or 3-phase with a VFD are popular.

Neil
25 September 2018 at 20:23 #373279
Jay Wyatt
Participant
@jaywyatt10691
Thank you both for the pointers, very helpful. It is an apsolute mine field. I’m think I’m going to opt for used, local and with at least some tooling, it seams cheaper that way and not worry too much about the power.

Neil, I doubt if we’re related we’re based in Norfolk. I believe years ago I had an uncle in Devon and one in Essex. Having said that there can’t be that many Wyatts about.
25 September 2018 at 20:24 #373280
Jon Lawes
Participant
@jonlawes51698
I work with an Andy Wyatt from Salisbury who is interested in Lister stationary engines… must be the name I guess!

Welcome to the forum
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