DIY: Lathe Control Pod (kinda off topic)

Hi Greg

Yes you are right, it's not just very convenient but also for safety reasons one should be able to start and stop their lathe/machines safely and also quick in a case of things getting out of hand. You wouldn't want to have to reach over a spinning piece that is in the process of leaving the lathe, etc. As I don't have a VFD I didn't have to go through the building of what you have devised here. I have and wanted to point this out, a safe starting and stopping switch that is not that expensive, considering all else, and have used it for several years now without any problems. It has one added safety point over and above any normal electric wired switch, in that the switch uses an plastic air hose, so you won't be electrocuted when (not if) you pinch the wire, as it is an air hose. I find it very comforting to know I can switch the lathe on or off with my foot, while having both hands on a tool while hollowing, and also to have it right next to me while turning.

Here's a link for a look at the switch

Greg G. wrote:

Beautiful piece of workmanship!!!

Keith P.

DAMHIKT ;-)

My old Jet 1014 mini was much simpler, and quieter. And if the switch had not been located where it was, at my right hip most of the time, I would have probably opted for something similar to your suggestion.

This is quite true. However, one great thing about this pod is that you won't get electrocuted, or even mildly shocked should you sever the cord, or even drop the box in the bathtub. 17v at 3ma or 10v at

In that vein, however, I personally would use conduit for any line current carrying conductors.

Now that you mention it, that might just be convenient for me as well. The ability to position a hollowing tool through a tiny hole while keeping both hands on the tool when powering up the lathe would be advantageous. I have a few old mil surplus pressure switches that I may add to the pod in order to augment it with foot switch capability.

Thanks, Leo. I'm stealing your idea.

Greg G.

Thanks, Keith! Although I generally reserve such exuberance for the wood turnings themselves. ;-)

Greg G.

Hi Greg Not mine, but you're welcome to it.

Have fun and take care Leo Van Der Loo

I'm into electronics a bit, so I really envy people who can do neat layout and design work (that works and are willing to share - i.e. you could be marketing this controller :O)

Keith

I considered that very thing, but it would require bundling an interface and software with the pod, and the customer would have to own a computer in close proximity to the lathe for programming the controller. I guess all that's doable, but I don't own any Chinese factories either. As evidenced by their nearly total domination on store shelves, no one will buy a product unless it is produced by a poor, polluted, despotic country.

Greg G.