Are you tired of using a flimsy turntable for your DIY projects?
Do you want to showcase your work in a sales display with a sturdy and reliable turntable?
Look no further!
In this article, we will show you how to build a motorized turntable that can handle several pounds of weight.
With a few simple materials and a little bit of tinkering, you can create a heavy-duty turntable that will serve multiple purposes.
Keep reading to find out how!
How To Build A Motorized Turntable
First, you will need to gather your materials. You will need a high torque, low RPM motor that runs on 110v AC power. These types of motors can be hard to find at a reasonable price, but we have a solution for you.
Head to your local hardware store and look for a rotisserie kit. These kits typically come with a motor that runs at about 2 RPM and has enough torque to turn even heavy projects.
Next, you will need a table top and a lazy susan bearing. You can find these items at your local hardware store as well.
Once you have all of your materials, it’s time to start building. Begin by drilling four holes in the table top for the feet of the motor to attach to. Make sure the holes are evenly spaced and large enough for the screws to fit through.
Next, drill a center hole in the table top that is larger than the motor shaft. This will allow the motor to be attached to the table top and spin freely.
Attach the motor to the table top using screws and nuts. Make sure it is securely fastened and level.
Finally, attach the lazy susan bearing to the bottom of the table top using screws and nuts. This will allow the turntable to spin smoothly and evenly.
Your motorized turntable is now complete! You can use it for drying small scroll saw projects after applying spray finish or showcase your work in a sales display.
Materials Needed
To build a motorized turntable, you will need the following materials:
– High torque, low RPM motor that runs on 110v AC power (a rotisserie kit motor can be used as a cost-effective alternative)
– Table top
– Lazy susan bearing
– Power wire with ON/OFF switch
– Pair of wire connectors
– 4 small wood knobs
– Wood dowel
– Piece of rubber hose
– Few screws
Make sure to gather all the necessary materials before starting the building process to ensure a smooth and efficient construction.
Choosing The Right Motor
Choosing the right motor for your motorized turntable is crucial for its successful operation. The motor you choose should have enough torque to support the weight of your project and spin it at the desired speed.
One option is to use a rotisserie kit motor, which typically has enough torque to turn heavy projects and runs at a low RPM. These can be found at your local hardware store and are a cost-effective solution.
If you choose to use a different type of motor, make sure it has a high enough torque rating and runs on 110v AC power. It is also important to consider the weight and shape of your project, as this will affect the motor’s ability to start from zero speed.
Assembling The Turntable Platform
Now that you have built the base of your motorized turntable, it’s time to assemble the turntable platform.
First, you will need to cut out the platform from a sheet of acrylic or ABS. Use a laser cutter or a CNC machine to cut out the outline of the platform and raster three holes 0.08″ deep. These holes will allow the platform to rest atop three screws on the turntable.
Once you have cut out the platform, flip it over and vector engrave a center mark in green. Make sure not to cut through the entire part.
Now it’s time to attach the platform to the lazy susan bearing. Place the platform on top of the bearing and align it with the center mark. Then, attach it using screws and nuts.
Next, it’s time to attach the motor gear to the motor shaft. 3D print a motor gear that fits your motor shaft and attach it securely using a set screw.
Finally, connect the motor to a power source and test out your new motorized turntable! You can adjust the rotation speed and direction using an Arduino shield if you want more control over your turntable.
With your new turntable, you can capture 360-degree views of objects for video and photography, add movement to your videos, focus on details that you might otherwise miss, and achieve better lighting by raising an object up. Plus, building your own turntable is much more cost-effective than buying one with minimum features!
Testing And Troubleshooting
After building your motorized turntable, it’s important to test it before using it for any projects. The first thing you should do is make sure the unit is completely level. Use a level to check that the table top is flat and even.
Once you’ve confirmed that the turntable is level, turn on the motor and observe its movement. If the turntable judders or shakes, it may be an issue with the motor speed. You can try making fine-tuning adjustments to the turntable motor by locating the adjustment screws on your own. Two common locations are beneath the platter and on the underside of the record player itself. Turning these screws clockwise speeds up the platter, while turning them counterclockwise slows it down.
It’s important to make small adjustments and test the rotation speed after each one. You can test by listening, but for more accuracy, use a stroboscopic disc to check the rotation speed. If you’re still having issues with juddering or shaking after making adjustments, it may be a sign of a more serious problem with the motor or bearing. In this case, it may be best to consult a professional or seek further troubleshooting advice online.
Overall, testing and troubleshooting your motorized turntable is an important step in ensuring its functionality and longevity. By following these steps and being patient with adjustments, you can create a reliable and efficient turntable for all your project needs.
