On my previous setup (shapeoko pro xxl + makita router + this makita vacuum), I used a bitrunner 2.0 to turn on/off these tools simultaneously as the job starts/finishes. The router was connected to the tool plug outlet on the makita vacuum which then connected to the bitrunner.
The Problem:
However, I sold the shapeoko Pro setup with the bit runner 2.0. The problem is the new 2.2kW spindles power draw. I’m considering keeping the rpm’s to about 75% it’s max capacity (~18krpm) to keep power draw under control but this spindle VFD might be too much to plug directly into the makita dust extractor and doesn’t make sense to anymore with the new VFD setup.
Question:
Any suggestions on a auto-on/off switch for the vacuum to go with Carbide3D’s 80mm spindle vfd? I’m UK so UK source would be ideal but not essential for getting direction
Since the vfd controls the turn on/off of the spindle, my old understanding of my old setup wouldn’t apply here. However, this product you have linked, does it allow for the vfd to be powered on as standard so carbidce motion can control turning it on/off, but will only turn the vacuum on if it detects the current spike?
I’ve only just set up my shapeoko 5 last weekend and have been working on the enclosure ever since, so i’ve not had any practical experience to how the spindle runs right now so it’s why I ask the forum for clarification so i can get this on order asap
I’m guessing that won’t work if I have a single 220v power supply?
This gets shared by the controller & the VFD. I assume the controller is stepped down or only using one 110v leg of the incoming current.?
If my spindle is only spinning at 10,000 rpm the vac doesn’t kick on until the bit starts carving. The auto power detect must be looking for amp draw.
Thing is: the vacuum switch needs to detect some minimum current request from the power device to switch on. If one just plugs in the VFD it possibly does switch on the vacuum already with the power the VFDD pulls ion idle.
Wit the spinlde all that counts is notnthe VFD but whether the spindle runs or not, that means you need a detection of current running through the power cable of the spindle.
The switch box is available for UK too:
The sensor to detect power consumption from any cable, in our case the spindle cable, is this:
works like a charm. And: there is a remote manual control available, helps if one likes to use the vacuum manually, like me: the CNC vac sucks via a dust separator with a large bag, so tom remove a lot of dust / chips manually I made a switch for the hose to use a hose for vacuuming the table etc.
IMO that is the “cleanest” solution, takes away uncertainty whether the VFD is detected properly etc.