I haven't actually done the math, but is it really pricier than other grinders?
Considering all that it does, I doubt it is.
It's a vertical grinder with a contact wheel, platen, small wheel and slack belt setup.
PLUS it's a horizontal grinder with all the same options.
And it comes with an awesome work rest system that does more things than I can think of.
Well, just for grins and giggles, I went ahead and did the math for an "equivalent" KMG setup. I'll let everyone draw their own conclusions:
8" grinder package (8" contact wheel, flat platen, work rest, tool arm) $920
VFD bracket: $38
Spare Tool Arm: $80
Small Wheel Attachment: $83
Base Plate: $115
Horizontal Grinder Package: $840
72" extension: $94
KBAC-27D (2hp VFD) ~$400
KBAC-24D (1hp for horizontal) ~$300
1hp and 2hp 3phase motors: ~$500
TOTAL COST = $3370 + Shipping
TW-90 = $3400 + Shipping
Now, here's a couple of things to keep in mind:
KMG Option: You're getting TWO VFD/Motor setups and TWO complete grinders (verticle and horizontal)
Base Plate is not necessary for the verticle grinder, so you can save $115 right there.
I'm actually being generous on Motor and VFD prices as well, as I've priced them quite a bit cheaper in the past from various suppliers. I'm giving (in my opinion) an average cost here.
I did not include a "tool arm" for the small wheel attachment, as I'm not sure if Travis does either. I don't believe either include wheels, so that's moot point (though the horizontal KMG DOES include one small wheel IIRC).
Now, also keep in mind that the stock KMG work rest is not as versatile as the TW-90's, but I do not believe the TW-90's flat platen is as versatile as the KMG's. That's just my opinion, but it's also my opinion that these two points cancel eachother out.
I also think that the vulcanized rubber wheels from beaumont are probably of a slightly higher quality than urethane wheels, but that may be up fo debate as well.
Possible KMG advantages:
Rubber Wheels
1.5" STEEL tool arms
2 dedicated variable speed machines for the same price or cheaper (also zero setup time from one to another)
more versatile flat platen
Possibe TW-90 advantages:
better tracking
more versatile tool rests
smaller footprint with one machine
perhaps easier to change/adjust belts?
Forgive me if I left anything out or overlooked anything. I'm trying to be as fair/impartial as possible on the comparisons.
As for me, KMG has a clear advantage as I'd rather have two machines and less set up time. And although the TW-90 has it's innovations and novelties, I just have a hard time putting that much money for what is in reality a single machine, with a single VFD and motor. It also doesn't appear to use any more material to fabricate, not that it matters much in the grand scheme of things I suppose, but it might make me feel better about the price.
Lastly, for the potential money saved, you could probably get a MAP arm or a rotating platen.