Speed control 240v AC pond pump

Other Hardware Motors, Mechanics, Power and CNC
1

Hi,

I'm wondering what's required (or if it's possible) to speed control a 240V AC pond pump. I believe, from what i've researched, this is a little tricky, where as DC ones are a bit easier. It's a small pump, 60watts.

If anyone has any advice on where to begin that would be much appreciated,

Thanks,

Elliot

2

Most small AC motors are synchronous, which means their speed is coupled to the frequency of the AC line. The only reasonable way to control their speed is to use a VFD (variable frequency drive) and those are not cheap.

It is much easier to use a DC pump.

3

If your plan is to control the volume, plumb the output of the pump into a "T" so one flow is back into the pond, and the other side goes to where you want the water. Put a valve in the line going back to the pond. Close and open the valve to get the flow you want. Then you can find a valve that an Arduino can close and open electrically.

Paul