Conversion to variable speed motor

I’m curious and want to experiment.

I have a single speed motor, with belt, driven “bench grinder”.  I’d like to convert this to variable speed.  I know I can’t just drop a rheostat in-line.  Is there a SIMPLE, COST EFFECTIVE way to do this?

BTW, I don’t know why or what damage would occur from using a dimmer switch.  If you can give non-tech discussion I’d appreciate.

THANKS

The short answer is no.

I am not an electrician, so I can't explain the consequences of trying it (a dimmer switch can't handle the amps an electric motor draws).  You need a motor designed for variable speed, and the necessary controller for it.

Check the HP on the motor you have, and then call an electrical supply house (or a pump distributor, they need to deal with this issue all the time) for pricing.

Apollo_T said:

I’m curious and want to experiment.

I have a single speed motor, with belt, driven “bench grinder”.  I’d like to convert this to variable speed.  I know I can’t just drop a rheostat in-line.  Is there a SIMPLE, COST EFFECTIVE way to do this?

BTW, I don’t know why or what damage would occur from using a dimmer switch.  If you can give non-tech discussion I’d appreciate.

THANKS

this might work, or you can buy a variable speed grinder. They’re around $200.

THANKS!!!

This is a curiosity/experiment… too much effort a/o $$$ to follow-up.