i have two welders and one plasma cutter all 220 volt @ 50 amps. I would like to run a cable to a welding table and have a way to switch power to three different outlets on the table. Only one unit powered at any time. Can some tell what switch use?
Electrical – How to switch between three devices on one 50A circuit
electrical
Related Solutions
I think for what you want to do:
- temporary short term solution
- you guarantee you will never operate both the dryer and welder at the same time
You could consider building a 220V 30A power strip. Without knowing your welder, I'll list parts from Home Depot that might work but you have to confirm their suitability for your use.
Please review this URL to determine your plug NEMA type. It will probably be NEMA 10-30 or 14-30. Make sure the plugs, receptacles and dryer cord all match.
Note this is for standard 30A dryer. If you need 50A, you will need different receptacles and cord. Probably a range cord. But I assume that since you are currently plugging your welder into your dryer receptacle, 30A will be sufficient.
Raco 2-Gang 42 cu. in. Square Boxes Model # 8257 Internet # 202058366
You should screw this to the wall if possible for safety, as that will reduce stress on the dryer cord.
6 ft.10/4 4-Wire Black Dryer Cord Model # AW20009 Internet # 100672788 Store SKU # 601004
(two) Leviton 30-Amp 2-Pole Flush-Mount Outlet Model # R50-05207-000 Store SKU # 621336
wire, wire nuts, box cover, cord clamp etc.
If your box can be mounted close enough to the existing outlet, you can cut the excess off your dryer or range cord and use that excess wire to connect the two new outlets. This is just a very minor optimization and you might figure it out as you assembled the box but this way, you'll know before you go shopping.
Have you considered a remote for the house end of the garage hookup? I'm thinking a z-wave controllable light switch or something in the garage, and a remote control in the house. That way you can ignore the 12/3 romex and weird wiring (of that part of the circuit) and get on with your day.
I'm unclear whether it's allowed by code (especially with the colors you have), but with 3 wires, you've got enough for a single 30 amp circuit - ground, neutral and hot. Is that enough for the garage? That would at least be safe.
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Best Answer
If you are trying to connect switches to three different outlets the easiest method I can think of is mount a sub panel closest to the receptacles and connect each receptacle to a different 50A breaker. I think trying to find and purchase a heavy duty 240V/50A 3 position switch would probably be a little out of a DIY price range, as it is an industrial piece of equipment.
Hope this helps
FYI - From a commercial standpoint you can connect 50A receptacles together on a single circuit. I have done but the AHJ made us label each receptacle that only one receptacle could be used at one time.