Most washing machine motors are single phase induction motors. Unfortunately, these come in a variety of types, since there is a number of 'starter' circuit configurations for single phase motors. Usually in small motors, a configuration known as permanent split capacitor is used, with one set of coils wired with a series capacitor. The value depends on characteristics of the motor, it would be best if you could take the original capacitor out of the washing machine as well.

If you wanted to use a rheostat to vary the speed, it would need to be quite large, to be able to dissipate the power, probably so much so as to be impractical, but more importantly, you cant really control the speed of this type of motor by varying the voltage like this.

In general it is difficult to control the speed of a regular induction motor, usually it is done with a variable frequency drive. A single phase motor will be quite difficult to control, as you will have to control the phase of the starter windings as well. Probably a better option is to use the motor at a fixed speed, and have a system of belt driven pulleys or gears to change the speed. Alot of cheap lathes/drill presses use mechanical speed variation like this, as the control electronics for the motor would be more expensive.

Bata Baseball Pitching Machines

Bata baseball pitching machines have steadily become recognized as the best baseball pitching machine in the world. Used by San Diego Padres, Arizona Diamondbacks, Toronto Blue Jays, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Seattle Mariners.

There are five important factors to consider when evaluating a baseball pitching machine.

1. The type of construction.
     Bata baseball pitching machines are made of solid steel. There are no sand-castings or plastic on the frames or stand.

2. The motor and electronics.
     Bata uses only high-quality US made permanent magnet motors and solid state electronic control.

3. The wheels.
     As explained below, Bata uses the most effective design.

4. Ease of use.
     Bata baseball pitching machines are simple to set up, easy to adjust, easy to transport.

5. Capacity.
     Machines are suited for players of all levels.

Bata baseball pitching machines are the only machines that use Unique Goodyear Rubber Soft Trend pitching wheels. The soft tread wheels are solid, die cast, flat faced rubber treads, molded and vulcanized onto a machined aluminum core. The result is better accuracy, more speed, and better consistency. The wheels start out with a concise consistant shape, they maintain their shape regardless of the speed, and they are precision balanced to within 1 gram per foot. This makes Bata wheels run smooth and true.

Bata has various types of baseball pitching machines. The Bata 2Pitch3 baseball pitching machine is capable of throwing up to 95 mph fastball and a 75 mph curveball in one set up. Batting off this machine is like batting off a pro pitcher. When used with the Toggle Pitch Selector, the batter cannot predict which pitch is coming. He can only react to the pitch, as he would against a real pitcher. The Bata 2 Pitch Sidewinder baseball pitching machine is similar to the 2Pitch3 except that the maximum speed on the Sidewinder is 70 mph on both pitches, and the Sidewinder can pitch left or right handed. The Bata Twin Pitch baseball pitching machine can also throw two different pitches in one set up. A fastball or change up, or two fastballs to different locations. Ideal for softball. The Bata Starter baseball pitching machine throws fastballs up to 50 mph. Ideal for machine-pitch leagues and all players up to 12 years of age. The Bata B1-Curveball baseball pitching machine is the ideal in between baseball pitching machine. It is capable of throwing fastballs, curves, and sliders. The Bata 2 baseball pitching machine has three independent pivot locks. This allows you to adjust one axis without disturbing the others. The Bata 2 baseball pitching machine has built-in transport wheels, so you do not have to roll it on the pitching wheels.

In conclusion, Bata baseball pitching machines give you more for your money. See you in the big leagues.