How should i wire these 2 Compressors?

[koster88]

Hey Guys.. Trying to figure this out...

I have 1 compressor that i've had for a while. It runs on 230 3 phase. I plan to put a 2nd compressor right next to it. Both Compressors use the same Breaker/Wire size. 1 will be used only for my Backup. The problem is I dont have any more spots in my pannel to put more breakers. So I need some type of "switch" to be able to go from 1 compressor to the other. I would mount this close to the 2 compressors. How can I make this work?

 

[tadder52]

Either two switches that you know you can't run both compressors at the same time or look for a three way toggle switch -- comp A, off, comp B. I think you can find something like that.

 

[Charles (in GA)]

Do you have three phase service in your shop?

What horsepower are the motors, and Full Load Current amps?

Charles

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Do you have three phase service in your shop?

What horsepower are the motors, and Full Load Current amps?

Charles

+1

We need more info

 

[Ad13]

A backup incase the first one breaks? Or a backup for extra air?

 

[1Garageman]

Could you put a subpanel in the shop so you have more power options for the air compressor and what ever you might add in the future?

 

[koster88]

Do you have three phase service in your shop?

What horsepower are the motors, and Full Load Current amps?

Charles

Yes I have 3 phase.

I have 1 Compressor now. Its a 5HP 3phase, and is wired correctly (using the last breaker in the shop that I have available). I am adding a second Compressor (not for extra Air, but as a backup in case the 1st compressor has any issues. I want to be able to just flip something, and switch from giving power from 1 of them to the other in case i need to service the 1st compressor.

 

[rockwithjason]

you can get a manual double throw transfer switch. this will allow only one compressor to run at a time.

 

[Alchymist]

Are they equipped with magnetic starters? If so just wire the coils through a DPDT switch.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

That would be the cheapest. Or he could use a 3 pole double throw switch that would switch the feed wires but that will be a little pricey...