Motor Controllers for my chassis

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Benjamin Maggi
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Motor Controllers for my chassis

Post by Benjamin Maggi »

I need a speed controller for my Ride Trains chassis. It has two motors, each rated at 24 volts and 280 Amps. I plan to run it with two marine batteries in series, each at 12 volts, for a total of 24 volts.

The used wheelchair/golf cart stores around the Albany area are NOT helpful. I have tried these options. Can anyone recommend a good STARTER voltage controller unit? It doesn't have to have all the bells and whistles for now, as I can always upgrade down the road.

I have heard the names Curtis and 4QD thrown around too.

Thanks.
"One cannot learn to swim without getting his feet wet." - Benjamin Maggi
- Building: 7.25" gauge "Sweet Pea" named "Catherine"
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cbrew
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Re: Motor Controllers for my chassis

Post by cbrew »

Benjamin Maggi wrote:It has two motors, each rated at 24 volts and 280 Amps.
Are you sure about the amp rating? that comes out to 6720 watts.
at ~746 watt = 1 HP. that gives you a hair over 9 HP each... :?:
If it is not live steam. its not worth it.
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Fender
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Post by Fender »

I think Benjamin means 280 watts each. That would make them about 1/3 hp.
Dan Watson
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cbrew
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Post by cbrew »

I am sure you are right, But i have learned never to assume :)
in that case, why did you not go with the controler that Roy offers?
I ask because i have been eye balling it for use on my GE 25 ton box cab conversion
Thanks
Chris
If it is not live steam. its not worth it.
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Benjamin Maggi
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Post by Benjamin Maggi »

It is 280 Watts. Sorry! I am hesitant to use his controller because even he isn't perfectly sure it will work. He says that if the motors are run in series it should be enough, but running the numbers gives little room for error. That is all. I was looking for other options.
"One cannot learn to swim without getting his feet wet." - Benjamin Maggi
- Building: 7.25" gauge "Sweet Pea" named "Catherine"
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cbrew
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Post by cbrew »

Hi Ben,
i have researched both models,
1) SyRen 25A regenerative motor driver http://dimensionengineering.com/SyRen25.htm
Out of the box, the SyRen 25 can supply a single DC brushed motor with up to 25A continuously. Peak currents of 45A are achievable for a few seconds.
based on these figures.
24v * 25A = 600 W continuous. 24V * 45A = 1080W Short term Max.
I fell you would be fine. I would worry more about your motors. but all you need to do is add a auto resetting circuit breaker to protect them

2) Sabertooth dual 25A motor driver http://dimensionengineering.com/Sabertooth2X25.htm
Out of the box, the Sabertooth can supply two DC brushed motors with up to 25A each. Peak currents of 50A per channel are achievable for a few seconds.
I think would be over kill for your application
Both models do include
Synchronous regenerative drive
Ultra-sonic switching frequency
Thermal and overcurrent protection
Lithium protection mode
He says that if the motors are run in series it should be enough
I would NOT run 24v motors in series in a 24v circuit.


Personally, I am planning to use the Sabertooth dual 25A motor driver for the box cab. This will keep the motors isolated from each other.

I personally can’t see you going wrong, anyone have a different opinion?
Chris
If it is not live steam. its not worth it.
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Bill Wilkins
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Post by Bill Wilkins »

http://www.electricscooterparts.com/spe ... llers.html

Check put this web site Ben.

Bill W.
Plum Cove Chassis, freelance body - 2008 - Present
Wabash 569 - Allen Mogul - April 09-Jan 12
Bob Snippe Alco S-4 - Feb 12 - Apr 15
B&OBob
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Post by B&OBob »

Ben,

Bill's link looks pretty good. However, be conservative in selecting the rating of the controller relative to motor current. The MOSFET semiconductors used in these controller are OK within their ratings, but might suddenly fail if there is a current surge, or if the motors are even temporarily stalled, as in a derailment for instance, or somebody attempting to start while the train is restrained by something dragging.

You should also look for dynamic braking unless your chassis already has mechanical brakes.

Bob
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cbrew
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Post by cbrew »

Bill Wilkins wrote:http://www.electricscooterparts.com/spe ... llers.html

Check put this web site Ben.

Bill W.
Hi Bill, Great site, and great prices,
just keep in mind, none of these controllers have regenerative braking and will require a relay for reverse as electric scooters don’t need reverse 8)
(At least that i have found)

Love to hear more ideas!
Chris
If it is not live steam. its not worth it.
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Benjamin Maggi
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Post by Benjamin Maggi »

I have seen that site before but have no idea which one I should get. And, with no offense or embarressment intended, my mother's two scooters both have reverse.

Regarding what Roy says, I checked my notes and he did say to run them in parallel, NOT series. MY mistake, not his.
"One cannot learn to swim without getting his feet wet." - Benjamin Maggi
- Building: 7.25" gauge "Sweet Pea" named "Catherine"
kapullen
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Post by kapullen »

Grainger carries DC speed controllers sold under the brand name of Dart.

They are pricey.

They can probably be found cheaper on the net.

Kap
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cbrew
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Post by cbrew »

Benjamin Maggi wrote:with no offense or embarressment intended, my mother's two scooters both have reverse.
no offense intended ether direction here.

I am assuming your mothers scooter is not a two wheel model. correct?
This website deals with toy scooter parts not scooters for disabled persons.
Huge difference :wink:
I would not want reverse on a two wheeled scooter. i can see that ending is some burses :shock:
Chris

BTW i did look over a few controllers and did not see any with reverse
If it is not live steam. its not worth it.
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