> > 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.


I should just add that both types are VFDs / 3-phase, the difference being
the form factor.  The direct drive types aren't quite as readily re-usable
as the others.

The phase converters are your typical 'black box' these days as well.

Tony


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