> I am not sure if this is an EE topic.
> I have read that high end newer appliances ( washers and dryers
> mostly ) have motors and controllers that are quite useful for hackers/
> experimenters.  I am wondering what brands of appliances are using the
> higher quality motors and where one might find such items in a used
> condition.  I don't mind repairing them.


Fairly common these days, not necessarily high end or high quality.

Google 'direct drive washing machine'.  Adding the brand name 'Fisher and
Paykel' may help, not that you'll find many of those in your neck of the
woods.  Not a belt or gearbox in sight.

The other type are VFDs (variable frequency drive) normally only found on
large 3-phase machinery.  The motors are 3-phase and have a phase converter
(& a belt).  NEC & others make these.

I can't say I've seen any dryers with fancy motors, dryers tend not to have
much need for speed control  They're usually small brushed or induction
ones.  The newer the machine the smaller the motor.  Open cage too.  

Tony



-- 
http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive
View/change your membership options at
http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist