Recent content by DSMR

I would do it something like this (I apologize for the handwriting): I would use the reversing contactor as it is cheap and mechanically linked. Surely your VFD can be programmed to send out a "Motor Stopped" signal. If not, throw it away! So a relay, a contactor, a selector switch, and...

I have ran 2 motors on one vfd before. You have to supply both motors with individual external overloads to accomplish this the correct way. If you are going to run only one vfd at a time I would use a reversing contactor and a selector switch with some logic to only allow it to switch...

It would depend on the setup, but a fiber optic switch on both ends should be sufficient.

Steve, If I were in your situation I would use something like this: https://www.discount-low-voltage.com/Cable/Direct-Burial-Singlemode-Fiber/6-strand-Singlemode-Armored-006EUC-T4101D20 So this is direct burial at around $0.50/ft. They will also pre-terminate both ends (this saves a bunch of...

Not according to Moore's law. Also, with the long distance, fiber is a superior choice for mitigating signal deterioration (I know, I know, 100 meters). Run Cat6 in your shop as needed though.

The capacitors are there to provide a phase shift on your 240 line input. They are 180* degrees apart while true 3 phase is 120*. The generated leg will always be correct of course. Rotary converters are okay but far from idea. Just remember when you add a high impedance load (motor!), this will...

I would do this with a solenoid valve and a cheap PLC. Then you can adjust your timers and such as needed. Would be a good project to learn about plc programming.

I agree with fiber as well. Might as well future proof your internet connection

Have you ever done this before? He wants to alternate between compressors (you mention running at the same time). I could probably draw out what you are saying but it is wrong. Maybe you can draw it out and it would make sense.

I would use a PLC, 2 pressure switches, and 2 motor starters to do this.

I did not want the box to be mounted on the outside (personal preference). The 2x4 it's mounted to was twisted which is why it's out on one side. It is framed with cross braces in the wall which work quite well with the twist plug. Good thing it runs my equipment fine and your opinion of it...

That's a proper twist lock receptacle. The drywall guy cut it out kind of funky but I can add some trim if it bothered me, but it really doesn't, and I care more about the work I do in my shop than trying to impress men. But on another note, searching my past post's like that borders on Ad...

If you are willing to work on live circuits you are taking your own life in your hands no matter what the voltage is. You need to study proper PPE practices because from the sounds of it, you are not being safe working on equipment and might be complacent thinking only a certain magical...

DIY voltage is silly. This made up propaganda that 480vac 3 phase is some sort of dangerous voltage is poppycock. I argue if you are willing to look at 240V 3 phase then 480 should be looked at nearly the same. Most of North America industry lives on 480 for machinery. In the grand scheme of...

I am going to explain the same point again. All devices devices now have a SCCR rating (even 120/240 devices). The NEC states that you cannot supply a device with more fault current than it can handle. Therefore, if everything is to code, it should be perfectly safe with only a quite minimal...