I have an older Powermatic Tablesaw (the green one), that I bought used with a 3-phase motor. Since it is in my home, I have it running with a static phase converter on single-phase power. I don’t give it heavy use, only weekend projects here and there.
Anyway, I was running the saw this morning, making some very shallow depth cuts (1/2″-certainly not overloading the motor), and it had been running for about ten minutes when the motor just died. The breaker didn’t trip, all other receptacles are fine, so I’m sure it is the saw, either the motor, switch, or possibly the phase converter.
The motor felt pretty warm to the touch, and I am wondering if it overheated, and if this is permanent. After letting it cool for a few hours, still no luck. In case it matters, I do not have dust collection.
Any help or ideas are appreciated. I am stumped, and hoping I won’t have to replace the motor.
Thanks
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Replies
Since it died while you were using it I would rule out the converter
being the problem. A static phase converter only kicks in the third leg to start the motor. Once the motor is running the static converter does absolutely nothing. That's why static converter run motors have about half the rated power as it's only running on two of the three legs. Most likely it is the switch or motor. Don't know where you are located but is there an electric motor repair service near by? The easiest way would be to bring the switch, converter and motor to them to check out. Could be as simple as the coil that activates the contactor in the switch failed. Unless you know what to check in the switch you are better off bringing it to a pro. You could test the motor by using another motor to bring it up to speed and putting power to two of the legs. It might be as simple as blowing the dust out of your switch. You really should take it to a motor repair shop instead of taking electrical advice on a woodworking forum. If you cut your finger off would you post here for advice because it happened on your tablesaw?
Edited 10/18/2003 7:18:34 PM ET by Rick at Arch. Timber and Millwork
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