Speed control of single phase induction motor

[ppppenguin]

I was at Brian Cuff's house (BrianC on VRAT) recently. He has a Bridgeport mill in his garage which he uses with a 3 phase motor and an inverter. I think it's the original 3 -phase motor though I can't be 100% sure. He says it's superb with smooth and easy control. He's thinking of changing his Myford lathe to a similar system. Didn't see either in operation but I'd be inclined to believe him. Single phase induction motors will always be less smooth, powerful (esp at startup) and controllable than their 3 phase cousins.