Looking for mains plug recommendations

[NFT5]

I have a shop where we use one machine (Cyclo polisher) which runs on 110 volts. This is powered via a step down transformer from our 240v mains. My problem is that the supplier shipped the machine with a short (3m) lead instead of the 8m I ordered. So, to use this polisher the transformer has to be lugged around the vehicle. Not particularly efficient.

So, what I need is some extension leads. Simple, you say? Well, yes, except that US style plugs and sockets are not sold here and I need to keep them different from the Australian 240v style. Don't want anyone plugging this machine into 240v.

I've had a look at websites like Sears (who do offer international shipping) and I can buy extension leads, no problem, but the freight costs are ridiculous.

My idea is to just buy some plugs and sockets that I can fit to 3 core flex that I can source here. This, with a couple of spares, will give me repairable leads which I think is a better, and cheaper alternative than moulded fittings.

I've also had a look at the Home Depot website (who don't ship internationally) and they certainly have a huge range of plugs and sockets (you call them connectors, I believe) but I'm really not sure which ones would be most suitable nor do I really know where else to look.

They have to be rugged enough to take being thrown and dragged around a concrete floor all day and I'd prefer something that won't pull apart easily. Machine is only 250 watts so no need for anything but standard fittings.

So, I'm after two things if any of you blokes can help:
Firstly some recommendations of make/style/model of plugs & connectors (links would be even better); and, secondly some recommendations of suppliers who offer online shopping facilities and will ship internationally.

Thanks....

 

[Norcal]

Hubbell manufactures the best wiring devices, & I think Grainger will export, BTW, a Twistlock® plug /connector would be best at the machine that way it stays secure.

No time to add links this morn.


Off topic a bit, is your X-former like the UK building site one's? 240V primary & 110V sec. with each leg at 55V.

 

[Charles (in GA)]

Standard US plug (male end) for the end of a cord would have a NEMA designation of 5-15P, the receptacle (female connector on the cord) being a 5-15R.

A locking version is a L5-15 which we use extensively at work. They are quite pricey but if you are dragging this around a car while polishing, it might be worth using them.

Illustration below is looking at the receptacle (female) end. (from Wilkipedia)

These are Hubbell from Grainger, probably the best you can buy, but are pricey, esp from Grainger.

http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/HUBBELL-WIRING-DEVICEKELLEMS-Insulgrip-Connector-4A251

http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/HUBBELL-WIRING-DEVICEKELLEMS-Insulgrip-Plug-4A250

****

For locking plugs, push in, twist to lock, here are the 15 amp locking versions

http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/HUBBELL-WIRING-DEVICEKELLEMS-Locking-Plug-5A073

http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/HUBBELL-WIRING-DEVICEKELLEMS-Locking-Connector-5A074

Hubbell is virtually indestructable, but there are other good connectors and plugs. Not sure if Amazon ships international, but if you can find the items from Amazon (not one of the other resellers on Amazon, but Amazon itself) then you will get a much better deal.

Do an Amazon search for Hubbell 5-15 or for Leviton 5-15 and you will get lots of hits.

Charles

 

[NFT5]

Norcal, couldn't tell you what's inside the box. It's a 2000 watt one that I picked up on EBay. Grainger are definitely exxy!

Charles, great info! Thanks heaps. Found a supplier on Amazon who has the 5-15's by Leviton and ships to Australia. Have 3 sets on the way.

Can't believe your plug/socket range is so complex. We have only two types, 10amp and 15amp and then there are 4 (?) types for 3 phase but that's 415 volt so only for commercial/industrial.

 

[Norcal]

Norcal, couldn't tell you what's inside the box. It's a 2000 watt one that I picked up on EBay. Grainger are definitely exxy!

Charles, great info! Thanks heaps. Found a supplier on Amazon who has the 5-15's by Leviton and ships to Australia. Have 3 sets on the way.

Can't believe your plug/socket range is so complex. We have only two types, 10amp and 15amp and then there are 4 (?) types for 3 phase but that's 415 volt so only for commercial/industrial.

Funny thing is that the OZ/ Kiwi, plug / receptacle is based on a old US design. It's been out of favor since the late 1960's or so.


Leviton has improved their quality, but I call them a Hubbell "wanna-be", just like the Ford F250 is a wanna-be Dodge because of the front grille.