[JohnnyVegas]

I have a used Taig lathe coming soon and am very excited. It has a single phase 1550 AC motor with it now (not the Taig OEM) and would like the ability to control the speed. I plan on modifying it to have Mach 3 sense the speed and, of course, CNC the unit in time.

Any suggestions on the size and type of DC motor to look for?

I've seen a lot of people finding and using tread mill motors. If I locate an old treadmill do I need the controller with it or just the motor???

[Al_The_Man]

If you want variable speed you need a controller, KB Baldor SCR or PWM drive, for fixed speed a full wave bridge across the 120vac.
Al.

[JohnnyVegas]

If you want variable speed you need a controller, KB Baldor SCR or PWM drive, for fixed speed a full wave bridge across the 120vac.
Al.

Thanks. I can design and build a PWM so I guess I will start looking for a used treadmill in my area this week.

Thanks for the info.
What WATTAGE do the majority recommend or use for the Taig??
Is there any reason to have a speed greater then 1550 RPM??

New to metal working.

[Al_The_Man]

Most of the Treadmill motors claim >2hp but I think that is a little over rated.
If you are lucky, you may find a T.M. with a Leeson with a 3hp 4000rpm.
Nice motors.
Al.