Ok, I stumbled across a controller for a DC motor, but am not sure if it will work for what I need it for.
It is a Minarik model MM23101A. Evidently it goes up to 8amps max on 230 AC. I plan to use a 1.5 or 2 HP DC motor, 1750 max rpm, for my grinder, the only problem is I don't have the motor yet, so I don't know what a motor of that HP rating will draw amp-wise. I also think that if I use a heat sink with the controller, the heat sink increases the max amperage level that can run through the controller, but am not sure.
Can anyone out there who knows motors a little better than I help me make a dicision? The price on this contorller is great, but only a good deal if it will work for me.
Thanks

Here is a link to the Minarik web site, there is lots of info there.
www.minarikcorp.com/online.html (http://www.minarikcorp.com/online.html)
I couldn't find the MM23101A you mentioned, but I did find a MM23101C and with a 230 volt input it is rated at 180 vdc output and up to a 2 hp motor. They are listed on their online store for $148.50
www.minarikcorp.com/cgi-b...d=MM23101C (http://www.minarikcorp.com/cgi-bin/eris.cgi?wwizmstr=MVES.SEE&pid=MM23101C)
Hope this helps,
Mike

Adding a heat sink and changing the load resistor is the normal method of increasing amperage.

The controller sounds powerful enough but you should run 180V motors and the controller wired at 240 V for more range and finer control. You could run 90V motors but you are at the bottom of your speed range right off to avoid cooking the motors.

Thanks for the info and the help. I really appreciate it.
I did check out that Minarik website before I posted here, and also found the C series, but wasn't sure it was the same as the A series. I did some digging at the site and learned that the A and C doesn't mean much, as far as what the controller does, the users manual states that the A means "standard revision" and the C means it is "used in Europe". Otherwise all the specs match up, so I think I am going to grab it.
I think I will run it at 230 VAC input, to get max benefits from the unit.
Now I just have to track down a motor.
Thanks again for all your knowledge and help.

I use Minarik's MM23201A on two of my grinders,not positive but I think that the diff.,between the 23101 & 23201is in the amount of extras,like forward/reverse,run/brake etc.I am running 11/2 hp,230volt motors with no problem.There is,or should be a switch inside for both 120 or 230 volt use.good luck.

I have aminarik controller for sale.I bought 2 off of ebay and don`t need but one . 55.oo+shipping Robert Washburn Abs journeyman smith

Hey, that is a great price! I would have grabbed it if I hadn't found this one (payed $40 for it, and got a $600 cyclone dust collector for $70; guess my patience has finally payed off). Hope someone takes you up on your offer, it is a good one. (Maybe I should get another....I think I will start with one for now)
Any idea where I can get a heat sink for my controller for less than the $50 I see them for in Mcmaster Carr?

You might try Surplus Center,1-800-488-3407 for a free catalog.they have the 2 1/2HP kit w/ speed controler & the same size motor alone. 49.95 kit,21.95 for the motor alone,these motors are off of treadmills and are open enclosure so you will need to put some kind of filter media around them to keep metal grit out. I have ordered one for myself and have talked to a few people who have used them and are happy w/ them. Good Luck,Mike Sader

My step pullets are from the stone age, but they work great, don't wear out, and are cheap,too.
I don't change speeds often enough to pay the extra for the electronics(that I usually fight anyway), call me old fashion.

Gene,
Very good point. I use step pulleys on one of my machines and they work fine. Sometimes the simple way is the best way.

Almost any machine can be made variable speed for about 30 bucks with step pulleys. Esspesially a home made machine.
Sometimes simple is best.

Hi Robert, I may be interested in that controller. I have a 2hp motor 115 dc(thats what it says on the plate) It appears to be shunt wound.Does the controller you have show a field output connection
Thanks
Mark Williams

Let me check tomorrow and I`ll get back.