Replies

1. 
   Andrew | Dec 11, 2002 07:43am | #1

   If you haven't already bought the motor, or can return it, go with the 1725 rpm motor. i find they have more torque, and plus you won't need to change your pullies in order to get the required speed. You could also go with a variable speed motor if you want to cut metal with your saw.

2. 
   TKanzler | Dec 11, 2002 09:41pm | #2

   It'll work, but the problem is that by using a 3600 rpm motor and a half-size drive sheave (or motor pulley), you still have the same load tension and speed on the working side of the belt, or proportionately more tension if upping the motor power, but the arc of contact on the drive sheave is slightly less than half of what it was before.  V-belt power transmission capability is limited by the smaller sheave, amoung other things, and making the small one even smaller while increasing the power is probably not the best way to go.  If you double the size of the driven sheave, all is well, but a 10" or 12" cast iron sheave is a little pricey (2 to 3 times that of die cast), you may need to open the slot in the closed base and replace the belt guard (if that's the style you have), and you'll need a new belt.  A 3600 rpm motor has half the torque of an 1800 rpm unit, but the drive ratio of the belt system has to be twice as much for the same blade speed, therefore the blade gets the same power in the end.  Power is power (torque x rotational speed, force x linear speed, volts x amps [resistive]), whatever.  If the motor is new and you can exchange it for an 1800 rpm unit, that would be your best bet, as stated above.  But if this is a motor you already own (old table saw motor, perhaps?), then one or two sheaves and a belt would be cheaper than buying a new motor.

   Be seeing you...

1. 
   nicobie | Dec 12, 2002 04:27am | #3

   I really agree...

   try to get the lower RPM motor.The proof is in the puddin'

1. 
   Sobieski | Dec 12, 2002 06:48am | #4

   The intrigue is, besides the fact that I live to modify every machine I own, I have several 1.5 hp motors, a decent collection of cast iron sheaves and pillow blocks, and have a basic metalworking shop. I was actually thinking of a jackshaft reduction system using four pulleys. I plan on resawing quartersawn white oak a lot and want some extra power. I'm also planning to put a 3 hp radial arm saw motor on my old Jet contractor saw soon and figured I'd keep using it's 1.5 hp by putting it on the bandsaw. I'll try and post some pictures soon. It'll feature machined double-row steel pulleys and Fenner Power Twist belts. I recently went thru the saw with new bearings, honed ways and a worm screw dust sheild. Just can't stop.

3. 
   rslatm | Dec 13, 2002 06:51pm | #5

   Just talked to my motor repair service. The said using the 3450 and reducing the rpm with the appropriate pulley will give the same torque as having the 1725 rpm motor so don't worry about it. Call your local motor shop for answers to questions like this. It is true that the 1725 rpm motor has more torque than the 3450 rpm.

   Rick

   
   

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   Edited 12/13/2002 11:12:23 AM ET by Rick at Arch. Timber and Millwork