Breaker question

[tom-ky]

Air compressor says suggested 40 amp breaker. Would there be any harm in running a 50 amp breaker with large enough wire to utilize 50 amps? Thought about putting the compressor on a 50 amp plug so that it would give me the option to move the welder around the garage if needed.

 

[sberry]

Normally use the one it lists. It may be possible but what welder are you using and what hp comp?

 

[tom-ky]

Normally use the one it lists. It may be possible but what welder are you using and what hp comp?

5 HP compressor and a Lincoln 225, one of the older tombstone welders.

 

[sberry]

Both can use a 50, the comp needs an 8 wire if it is a cable, 10 in pipe, both can use that but legally the comp should be hard wired.

 

[tom-ky]

Both can use a 50, the comp needs an 8 wire if it is a cable, 10 in pipe, both can use that but legally the comp should be hard wired.

What about putting a small load center in the back of the garage and run large enough wire to it and then put breakers for welder and compressor in it. I would not use both at the same time. Would that be legal?

 

[sberry]

Sure as long as the wire is large enough for the breaker.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

5 HP compressor and a Lincoln 225, one of the older tombstone welders.

What is the listed FLA or amps on the compressor motor?

A lot of manufacturers exaggerate their motor's HP ratings...

What about putting a small load center in the back of the garage and run large enough wire to it and then put breakers for welder and compressor in it. I would not use both at the same time. Would that be legal?

U could do that as well...How far away would the panel be?

However, if the motor is truly 5HP, it should be hardwired since standard NEMA plugs and outlets are not rated for more than about 3HP....

compressor circuit will need #10 in pipe or 8/2 NM-b.

Breaker can be max 250% of NEC table FLC...

Welder can plug into a full size 50a circuit(#6 wire) or you could use reduced size wire on a 50a circuit IF you dont plan on using the circuit for anything else. And its recommended to label the circuit/outlet 'for welder use only'...

reduced size wire would be #12 in pipe or 10/2 NM-b...this is allowed because of the 20% duty cycle on that specific welder. 50a input is multiplied by .45 which gives a result of 22.5a wire...if u plan on using other welders with different ratings then just go with full size wire....

for detailed reading on this subject, click here