Quote Originally Posted by WoodKnot View Post
Although at work we use 3-phase, sell equipment all based on 3-phase, it is something i have never used myself -

So in terms of electrical connections for 3 -phase, I would not know where to start.

When i converted the garage in my workshop I installed all the sockets (at least 15 doubles) and all the lighting.

But, as per the regs, got an electrician to fully test and complete the installation for full approval.

Maybe some more guidance from the guys on the forum that have gone down that route.

That does sound like the next big part of the project and one I will make sure that i have the full backing of prior to making any purchases.

I have purchased the power pack for the motors and the motors themselves - but that's it.

I want the frame built and completed now before i move on.

WoodKnot
The three phase you have at work and different industries is not the same. These spindle motors can not be connected to an ordinary 3-phase plug, you must use an inverter. However, to run the inverter you don't necessarily need three phase, my VFD uses one phase, but it internally converts to three. Regarding guidance on electrical installation, I prefer not to. All I can say is that it is my personal opinion that the offer you have from Jazz for all that is a bargain, even if it sounds expensive in your ears. You can probably buy the parts cheaper individually, but you save a lot of time and trouble if you buy everything soldered and ready to be plugged into a wall socket.

BUT... before you say yes to the offer from Jazz, you MUST have your design ready, not just assume that everything fits together and works well. I mean, the whole machine MUST be ready for assembly, at least on paper, because that spindle is heavy, so you can't use small and weak steppers. You have already made an expensive mistake, don't continue the same route. I am sure that the delivered good from Jazz would work, but can your gantry handle everything? Have you decided for the type of design? Have you decided for the CNC software and the interface to your PC? Will it be Linux or Windows driven? Have you made any considerations of the electronics? Can you design and install everything, connect and solder all the wires and all that's needed to do? How large is the Z and what will be the Z clearance from the table top up? There are so many things to think about, so if you have not done it already, it is time to lift a pen and take notes in a booklet called "My CNC Design" or something similar.