Should You Buy a VFD instead of a Router? Answers await......

[@MosquitoMade]

I know this was mostly a sales pitch to sell the C3D spindles, but it actually is a pretty good setup. It's done and ready to go once you get it plugged in, and is a huge upgrade over the router. I do like that the C3D VFD is 110/120v and not 220/240v as is somewhat common for a VFD. I coupled mine with an iVac Pro Tool Plus sensor on the cable going from the VFD to the spindle , so I've now got utomatic dust collector control. Two added benefits, one I don't have to remember to turn the dust collector on and off, and two if I'm not watching the CNC the whole time, then I at least hear the dust collector turn off, where before there had been times where it would raise the router and tell me to turn it off at the end of a program. So sometimes it'd run for a few minutes before I'd notice it was done. Not anymore! The C3D VFD was easy to install, but if you hear a rattle or anything that "doesn't quite seem right", open the VFD enclosure to investigate. Mine had a loos screw rolling around inside it when I got it (scary, given the nature of the components inside). Something else to consider is that the VFD will probably require a non-GFCI circuit, which is not to code for most new or renovated structures where people will likely have their CNCs, at least in the US. I ran in to this recently, despite being told by C3D and a few users that it "worked on GFCI". They're not all the same, so your mileage may vary. I know C3D now says that it won't work on GFCI on the product page

[@uhavenosushi]

Interestingly, my carbide 3d VFD works fine on a GFCI. No idea why.

[@MosquitoMade]

​@@uhavenosushiexactly lol I even tried some EMI filters and power strips designed to help with that sort of thing and it still tripped the second the spindle powered on. 3 different circuits all did the same (one of which was a GFCI breaker and 2 were GFCI outlets). I just ended up making every other outlet on the circuit GFCI except the one the VFD was plugged in to. Thankfully it was at the end of the line

[@krtwood]

Just a note that it is pretty easy to have a router turn on and off automatically with a relay. I've been using an Iot Relay off Amazon for $30 that was pretty much plug and play so you don't need to really know anything about electronics to set it up other than knowing where to hook it up on the control board. It's really something I think C3D ought to be offering as an upgrade or even make it stock.

[@carbide3d]

That's definitely a possible middle ground. And why we have BitRunner. shop.carbide3d.com/collections/accessories/products/bitrunner-v2?variant=39390450286653

[@xrcustomizing7102]

I wasn’t thinking I’d ever really need the spindle, but for the first time ever; between having to click “ok” to change bits, taking the dust boot off, changing the bit, putting the dust boot back on, switching the ship vac back on, then clicking resume….i forgot to turn on the router. Couldn’t tell it wasn’t running over the incredibly loud sound of my shop vac…. Totally ruined a 2 1/2 hour carve for a client. Now, getting a spindle is my next priority.

[@carbide3d]

👍🏻👍🏻 You’ll enjoy the automation and power. (We’ve made that same error…..it’s a bummer)

[@PiefacePete46]

I wouldn't try to argue with the logic, Kevin... BUT... we ain't all the same. 1) Uses as production tool. 2) Uses tool to make things for personal projects and gifts/occasional sale. 3) Just "wants one", but has no specific need. 4) Fascinated by the technology, gets pleasure from making own machine, incorporating own thinking/ideas. Thirty-mumble years ago I got a Myford Super 7 lathe... on reflection, I mainly used it to make fixtures, fittings, accessories, etc. FOR THE LATHE! Countless pleasurable hours with no actual product to show for it. I guess that makes me a 3 or 4? 😜 Enjoyable & informative video, as always... thanks.

[@carbide3d]

There are lots of reasons to "want to need" new tools. We definitely get you.

[@PCPerks757]

Love my C3D VFD! Definitely worth the money.

[@carbide3d]

We love it when people love their Carbide 3D experience.

[@bierbarrel]

Same here!

[@odbo_One]

I had a router at first, but decided to upgraded because the bearing locked up on the router. The upgrade is night and day, I am glad I didn't replace the router.

[@EricksonWoodworking]

I love my C3D VFD! Quick install and up and running, there is no way I'm going back to a trim router.

[@PiercesPerfectPieces]

I wish I could’ve actually heard what Kevin was saying, but fortunately (for me) I had my trim router on just steadily gliding over $600 (in savings) worth of that sweet Peruvian Walnut. 😉 ** The (#2) added bonus for sticking with the trim router…. You no longer get to hear your wife yelling at you about moving your Shapeoko over to the other 1/2 of the garage so she can park her car inside! Ah yes, it’s the little things in life!! God bless Carbide3d & their trim routers as they’re literally music to my ears! 💯 ✌️

[@JJAH28]

Have been waiting for this to go on sale at some point. I keep checking but no joy so far. If you all do a flash sale on the VFD then I'm your huckleberry!

[@notsure6182]

they are already cheap at his $750 price

[@PiercesPerfectPieces]

If you’re looking for a cheap CNC with a cheap spindle you should check out the Leadwell V40, or V60!! Heck even the V80!! Depends on how much travel you want….. or I guess you could say travel you’re never gonna take! 🤔 🤷‍♂️

[@odbo_One]

They just had a 100.00 off sale recently.

[@arjantippe]

Will there be a 220 volt VFD in the future ? Can’t wait to replace my router with a VFD! Great video!

[@TheMowogman]

Certainly a VFD/Spindle setup is the way to go. I however went the DIY path from a good supplier in Australia that provide excellent support and "SHOCK" a warranty. Was it plug and play no. Was it hard to program the VFD at first yes but with the support of the seller in the end No it wasn't hard.

[@tonyn.4761]

Just assembled my Shapeoko 5 and a little bummed the VFD isn’t here yet :D but it’s coming soon I’m told, can’t wait to get this machine running!

[@carbide3d]

You'll be getting after it shortly!

[@PatioBenders]

My VFD just shipped from Carbide 3D, and I'm looking forward to getting it.

[@carbide3d]

A brave new world is about to dawn!

[@PatioBenders]

@carbide3d A Shout Out from Edmonton Alberta. I ordered my shapeoko 5 pro from the Robot Shop here in Canada and am patiently waiting for it to be shipped as it's still on backorder. Once it arrives, my journey begins. And as well, I have to say I really enjoy the content you bring us, Kev. Thanks and keep up the great work, man. 👍

[@iimuch3760]

Ordered the VFD when it first came out from Carbide. The spindle died about six months in. Carbide support was incredibly fast and a replacement was sent, to Canada, a few days later. Been using it to cut aluminum almost every day and its been fantastic.

[@carbide3d]

Especially when cutting metal on the regular, a VFD is the way to go.

[@sinsofvorador]

When are yall going to put the 2.2kh out to buy. I have the pro 5, and with what I've seen from the machine, it could benefit a lot from a more powerful spindle. Heck, even if it was the spindle from the hdm. That would be awesome to have.

[@DavidM2002]

I have a router on my woodworking machine and a spindle + VFD on my small metal mill. On the woodworking machine, the router has worked well for 20+ years. You just need to be sure to get a variable speed model and you will be fine. I have had a big Dewalt router fail on me twice though and it never happens at a good time. Given their cost, I would keep a spare on hand. The Dewalt soft start control gets fried, not the brushes so spare brushes won't help. The VFD and spindle are really nice but you really need to build a proper control panel with On, Off, Speed control on it. They aren't hard to assemble and will make living with a VFD far better because those miserable little controls on the VFD will get to you after a while. And, the spindle is far quieter than the router; no hearing protection needed.

[@carbide3d]

Interesting notes David. The Carbide 3D Kit comes with everything someone would need. Control box, Spindle and software integration built in. So our users can take advantage of all those benefits immediately. Keep on running that router!

[@DavidM2002]

@@carbide3dMine is very much like this one : kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJSmaYapgbenm68 Far easier to operate than the VFD box controls.

[@FrazerCanyonWoodworks]

Any update on the 80mm spindle for the S5?

[@Shorrey]

I have a stock 400W spindle, but when I upgrade, it will be 2.2 kW VFD, for sure. Noise and power are decisive factors.

[@Martin-uj6zn]

man, i love those tiny vises at 1:49.

[@user_16309]

Great sadness, my local code requires GFCI in the garage. My only option is the screaming router. Had I known that I’d not have built the table and saved up for the CNC over the last year. I fear the screaming router is going to anger the neighbors. Are there brushless trim routers I can use for the 5 Pro? Thanks.

[@xItsKidBx]

ordered mine about a week ago can't to test it out

[@carbide3d]

Great things ahead!

[@markm49]

Come on C3D release a 220v VFD for us in Europe.

[@carbide3d]

Our 80mm is a 220v product. shop.carbide3d.com/collections/accessories/products/vfd-spindle-80mm?variant=41481130311741

[@ArthurCheesebag84]

NGL Decent sales pitch for a VFD.

[@carbide3d]

Hopefully also some quality information and a couple laughs..

[@ArthurCheesebag84]

@@carbide3d yes. Good stuff. I liked it.

[@chadp2398]

Would it work on a 3XXL and can you still use on and off manually

[@Marcus_Caius]

I have a 3XXL and I would not spend that kind of money on a belt driven CNC.I might be wrong but you'll have to upgrade your Z-axis mount too and not sure the gantry is strong enough for a 2.2+ spindle. Others may chip in of course.

[@mmmmmmm8706]

I’d say the dewalt 611s last about a month these days.

[@carbide3d]

The VFD is the more reliable and enjoyable experience.

[@RogerWKiddSr]

My VFD will not start. What should I do?

[@carbide3d]

Reach out to [e-mail] Our team is here to support you.

[@gilliesuarez]

Here my mind was thinking Very Fast Drill

[@carbide3d]

Seems reasonable.

[@gilliesuarez]

@@carbide3d I went on a tour of my university's boiler plant today after watching this, and they also talked about using vfds, but for moving around water and air