Replies

1. 
   BG | Dec 24, 2002 07:45pm | #1

   Tom,

   Your correct, the topic of which table saw has been discussed many times here before and if you do a search on 'table saw' you'll get your fill.  Only once, however, have I heard the issue of RPM.  Apparently, at one time, they made TSs that turned at 1750 rpm...and those are to be avoided.  Perhaps others can address your question more directly.

   The key question relative to which table saw is how do you plan to use it?  The three choices; direct drive, contractor saw, cabinet saw vary quite a bit relative to durability, vibration, dust collection, and add-on after market jigs.  The 220 verses 110 issue, they say, has implecations on life of the motor and the power under heavy use. 

   Delta makes excellent saws as does Powermatic, General (CA) and Jet.  Mnay of us are impressed with Grizzly also.  Have fun choosing

2. 
   JeffKurtz | Dec 25, 2002 12:49am | #2

   Tom,

   I'd shy away from the direct drive models.  The universal motors they use depend on speed to attain their outrageously exagerated horsepower ratings.  These motors, similar to those used on circular saws, are intended to be run for only short periods of time, run hot, and have a relatively short life span.

   Stick with the belt driven units.  The belt is there not only to transfer power, but also to protect the motor. The motors on these units run more quietly, cooler, and have a very long life.  With the longer life span in mind, you're going to get a machine that's made to last for years.

   220 will give you longer motor life and use fewer amps, among other things the engineer types can explain.

   Jeff

1. 
   rslatm | Dec 25, 2002 10:22pm | #3

   Jeff...a June 2002 issue of Woodshop news has an article by Rick Chistopherson (Electrical Engineer) and he states that running on 240 volt will not extend the life of the motor, increase power, run cooler or lower your electric bill. The primary reason to run a motor on 240 is the circuit is underpowered. My motor repair company saye the same thing. Just trying to keep the facts straight. As I see it these forums can be a good source of info but it's nice when things can be backed up with sources. Some times it's the misinformation highway.

   Rick

1. 
   watkinsjd | Dec 27, 2002 01:45am | #4

   For a complete discussion by Rick on electricity in the wood shop go to the following link.  It is an excellent sourse of information.

   BTW The Oak is another very good forum.  Maybe not as good as FWW but worth the time to visit.

   http://theoak.com/rick/Electricity_in_the_Shop.html

   John

1. 
   rslatm | Dec 27, 2002 01:38pm | #6

   I've seen that reference by Rick Christopherson. The Oak is mediocre at best. Reminds me of high school. Badger Pond is like junior high. Just my opinion! Even woodweb, a professional woodworking site still leaves a lot of information uncovered. That's why I still rely on technical manuals and professionals. Anyone who relies solely on the web is missing a lot. The problem with the forums is it's mostly opinions. I do a lot of machine repairs involving industrial woodworking and have access to experts in motors, electricity, welding and machine shops. My job is to know the basics of all these things and use the experts when called for.

   Edited 12/27/2002 6:04:56 AM ET by Rick at Arch. Timber and Millwork

1. 
   watkinsjd | Dec 27, 2002 07:00pm | #7

   Yeah Rick, I have to agree with you. There are a lot of opinions out there!

3. 
   garth | Dec 27, 2002 02:09am | #5

   Tom

   The 3450 RPM that you stated I believe is the motor speed and not the blade RPM. As the blade is coupled with belts and the necessary pulleys you have to take the size of the pulleys in to account when determining the blade RPM.

   Scott T.