💡 Converting an old washing machine motor into a multi-purpose grinder/polishing machine
Converting an old washing machine motor into a useful tool, such as a grinder or a multi-purpose polisher, is a DIY project that saves money and reduces electronic waste. This content explains the principles, required parts, and circuit wiring in detail.
🔩 Principles and key parts
Principle: An alternating current (AC) motor of suitable power and rotation speed (often used in the spin-dry section due to its higher rotation speed) is used to drive accessories such as grinding wheels, sanding discs, or brushes.
Main parts required:
Old washing machine motor: It should be a motor that is still working properly.
Arbor/Adapter: This is an important part that connects the motor shaft to the grinding wheel or polishing disc. It must be the right size for the motor shaft and have threads for attaching accessories.
Base/Mounting Frame: Made of strong material such as steel, wood or acrylic sheet to hold the motor firmly and safely during use.
Grinding/polishing accessories: such as grinding discs, sandpaper discs, or wire brushes.
🔌 Circuit connection steps (general)
The wiring for using a washing machine motor usually focuses on supplying power to the main coil (Running Winding) and connecting a capacitor (Capacitor) to help with starting and maintaining torque (Torque).
Identifying the Wires: Older washing machine motors often have multiple wires coming out of them (e.g. 3-6). You will need to use a multimeter to measure the resistance (Ohms) to identify the main wires:
Main Line (Common): is a common point.
Run wire: Has the lowest resistance value between the main wire and the Run wire.
Starter Coil: Has a medium resistance between the main wire and the Start (the total resistance between Run and Start is the highest).
Capacitor Connection: Connect the capacitor to the Run wire and Start wire.
Power supply:
Connect the power cable, line 1 (L line) from the house power outlet (220V AC) to the Common line.
Connect the second wire (N wire) from the house power outlet to the Run wire (which is connected to the capacitor).
Note: If the N wire is connected to the Start wire instead, the motor will rotate in reverse direction.
Testing: Plug it in and test the motor to make sure it rotates in the correct direction and at a constant speed.
⚠️ Precautions and safety
Rotational Speed: Some washing machine motors have very high rotational speeds (RPM), which can be dangerous when used with grinding discs that are not designed for high speeds. Choose a grinding disc that can withstand the motor's rotational speed.
Vibration: The motor must be securely fastened to the base to reduce vibration, which may cause the tool to move or cause injury.
Heat: The motor may overheat during continuous use. It should have a good ventilation system.
Prevention: Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask.
| main | DIY (Do It Yourself) , tools , repairs , innovation from recycled materials |
| Material/Source | Washing machine motor , old things , leftover things , Upcycling |
| result | Grinders , polishers , multi-purpose tools , woodworking , metalworking |
| specialized knowledge | Electrical circuits , motor circuits , basic electricity , maintenance technicians |
| language | Thai language , HowTo |
Sure! Here are some illustrations for your content, each showing the steps and essential tools to convert your washing machine motor into a multi-purpose tool, with clear English text:
First picture: Shows the main idea of reusing washing machine motors.
Photo caption: "REVITALIZE OLD INTO NEW - DIY Universal Grinder/Sander"
Second picture: Shows the washing machine motor and main accessories.
Photo Caption: "ESSENTIAL COMPONENTS - Washing Machine Motor, Arbor Adapter, Grinding Wheel, Sanding Pad"
Third picture: Shows a simple circuit diagram.
Caption: "WIRING DIAGRAM - Connect Capacitor between RUN & START. Power (N) to RUN for forward."
Fourth picture: Shows the assembled grinder and precautions.
Caption: "SAFETY FIRST - Wear Eye Protection, Securely Mount Motor, Check RPM Rating"
