Wiring for a compressor

[Adam_151]

Putting aside the issue that the supply authority should be informed of a inductive load of this size on a domestic supply....... *whistles*

If I was doing the Job, I think it would end up with a SPN switchfuse in the house, 16mm feed through the wall into the garage, then a type A distribution board in the garage (not a domestic consumer unit), Compressor supplied from 45A C type via a rotary isolator.

We are supposed to take account of manufacturers instructions, but point no. 8 goes against the grain with me!

You need someone who does commercial/industrial rather than just domestic only sparky (where are you in the country, there is a chance that someone might be able to recommend someone good in your area)

 

[Taylortwocities]

In addition, I am confused about the circuit markings on that 8-way Wylex in pic 1.

The only circuit identified (5) says lighting, but that fuse is a 15A (blue) fuse. Lighting should be on a 5A (white) fuse.
Maybe whoever tried to mark this up is confused (excuse the pun). Those Wylex boards number right to left - its engraved under the fuses, if you look closely…..

 

[Adam_151]

P.S. Slightly off topic - did anyone else spot the problem with the wiring exiting from the newer looking MEM switchfuse that's apparently being used as the main switch?

Not sure its actually much newer! But I'm guessing that you are getting at eddy current issues? Also seems to be unsheathed conductors exiting it

 

[Adam_151]

In addition, I am confused about the circuit markings on that 8-way Wylex in pic 1.

The only circuit identified (5) says lighting, but that fuse is a 15A (blue) fuse. Lighting should be on a 5A (white) fuse.
Maybe whoever tried to mark this up is confused (excuse the pun). Those Wylex boards number right to left - its engraved under the fuses, if you look closely…..

Looks like the same person numbered the ways as wrote the list underneath TTC. So in sync with each other as it were, so looks like the 15A is probably the lighting.

 

[Robin0577]

We are supposed to take account of manufacturers instructions, but point no. 8 goes against the grain with me!

Indeed. As long as it's installed in such a way that the cable supplying it doesn't require RCD protection, I can't see why you'd want it on a fixed piece of machinery like that.

 

[dunny]

In addition, I am confused about the circuit markings on that 8-way Wylex in pic 1.

The only circuit identified (5) says lighting, but that fuse is a 15A (blue) fuse. Lighting should be on a 5A (white) fuse.
Maybe whoever tried to mark this up is confused (excuse the pun). Those Wylex boards number right to left - its engraved under the fuses, if you look closely…..

Looks like the same person numbered the ways as wrote the list underneath TTC. So in sync with each other as it were, so looks like the 15A is probably the lighting.

I wrote the list on th ebasis of what I know each fuse does. Its all over the place though, e.g. lights and some sockets o n the same circuit, one plug socket in the dining room on different circuit etc. I have just marked what I know as I have found it.

I will have to getr a spark in to sort this one......dont mind doing small bits but this one is too complex for me.

Thanks

D

 

[Adam_151]

I will have to getr a spark in to sort this one......dont mind doing small bits but this one is too complex for me.

You would be supprissed how many people come here that we struggle to convince that they need to get someone in!

If you tell us what area you are in, then there's likely someone who could recommend someone nearby

 

[dunny]

I know my limitations and also the wiring is already bad enough in this house!! I have asked my other half to talk to one of her contacts (she is an estate agent) but happy for other recommendations. I am near Ormskirk in Lancashire.

While I am at it I might as well put an additional socket circuit in for my MIG welder!!

Thanks

D

 

[Taylortwocities]

While I am at it I might as well put an additional socket circuit in for my MIG welder!!

Another

Does the MIG welder actally PLUG in to a 13A socket?
What is the spec for the MIG welder?
Maybe you'll need a much bigger cable/supply if it is to drive both the compressor and the MIG welder (+engine hoist, etc etc???)

 

[Adam_151]

While I am at it I might as well put an additional socket circuit in for my MIG welder!!

Now that will really upset the supply authority chaps...... welders are probably the load they hate most... after motors

 

[dunny]

While I am at it I might as well put an additional socket circuit in for my MIG welder!!

Another

Does the MIG welder actally PLUG in to a 13A socket?
What is the spec for the MIG welder?
Maybe you'll need a much bigger cable/supply if it is to drive both the compressor and the MIG welder (+engine hoist, etc etc???)

It is only a 13A welder with a normal plug on it. A Clarke 135TE MIG Weder from Machine Mart.

D

 

[dunny]

Putting aside the issue that the supply authority should be informed of a inductive load of this size on a domestic supply....... *whistles*

If I was doing the Job, I think it would end up with a SPN switchfuse in the house, 16mm feed through the wall into the garage, then a type A distribution board in the garage (not a domestic consumer unit), Compressor supplied from 45A C type via a rotary isolator.

We are supposed to take account of manufacturers instructions, but point no. 8 goes against the grain with me!

Happy New Year!,

I assume the SPN switch fuse could be RCD though?

Is there any cost benefit of me buying the components , routing cable, mounting switches etc. based on how you would tackle it or is it best to just leave it all to the spark?

Thanks

D

 

[DaveHerns]

You need to ask your spark what he wants you to do to help. It sounds like you've got the sort of garage I'd like. I've only got a 2.5hp compressor and a Pro 90 mig and they both work off a 13amp socket (so far, anyhow)

 

[Adam_151]

I assume the SPN switch fuse could be RCD though?

That would be a poor way of doing it, you'd loose the whole supply to the board in the garage. If one has decided to RCD protect the compressor then an RCBO or a stand alone RCD on the compressor circuit is the best way to do it. I still don't understand the need for it though!

Is there any cost benefit of me buying the components , routing cable, mounting switches etc. based on how you would tackle it or is it best to just leave it all to the spark?

You need to get the sparky on board first, he is likely to be able to get things cheaper than you (even after adding his mark-up- to cover sourcing, guarenteeing them, etc). Also we can't see the job from here, there are things that have to be decided on site (i.e. exact positions of equipment) which affect what exactly is required etc.

Being on hand when he's doing the job and providing a spare hand to pull cables and a supply of tea helps the job along though

 

[dunny]

I just had another thought....would it be better to change the consumer unit (at least 1 of them) to accommodate this new circuit? I will be getting a rewire anyway at some poin over the next 2 years. The garage will ultimately become another living room based on my current plan.

Would this be a better course of action in the long run?

D