Alternate VFDs for Chinese Spindles

**GND** · 24-08-2017

Thanks for that, Gerry. Had a bit of a look around, and I find no bargains to be had. So in that case, Huanyang wins big time on price!

Taking the question a little further - is there anything special or specific about the Huanyang VFD that makes it a particularly good choice for use with the Chinese spindles? Or in reality can any decent VFD be used? Certainly when I converted my manual machines to variable speed drives, I just chose respectable makes with a good enough spec, when they came up on eBay. It worked well. I kind of see the spindle as a different beast - but maybe it isn't? It obviously runs at much higher frequencies than a regular 50Hz type induction motor, but otherwise? Or am I missing some subtleties here?

**Ger21** · 24-08-2017

The only thing that makes it a good choice is the price. I would imagine that any of the "name brands" would be better, but probably not noticeably better.
One thing I found with my Huanyang is that they don't contain the circuitry for a braking resistor, but the terminals are there. The sellers apparently special order them this way to save money. I found out after I purchased a braking resistor.

**GND** · 24-08-2017

Interesting that you say price really is the only factor. But then it truly is inexpensive when compared to the well known brands - almost three to one if you buy new. It seems your experiences with the lack of braking resistor support might just show how some of that price difference is achieved - cut to the bone. I'm sure the branded VFDs also uplift their prices a bit because they can. But for the functionality you get, the Huanyang truly is a bargain.

I think I'll do some trawling for used VFDs of the right power rating, and see what I can find. I'm keen to give this a try, and thankfully I'm in no immediate hurry!

**Ger21** · 24-08-2017

I would have bought a Hitachi, but wanted to test my application with a cheap Huanyang first. I'm controlling two spindles with one VFD, using contactors to switch between the spindles. If I make any mistakes, the VFD will be a casualty.