3-phase question

[Stardust8324]

Hi, I've got a customer who wants to run 2 welding machines from one 32A 415V IP44 wall mounted socket. The machines both have 32A 415V IP44 plugs.

Is there any way to do this? A y-coupler?

I personally don't think it's possible, but thought I'd ask you guys!!

Thanks
akbmcf1

 

[Spark123]

I have never seen a Y coupler in that configuration. What sort of current rating are they? It may be better if they can both be used simultaenously to have another socket installed.

 

[Stardust8324]

hi, thanks for the reply. I'm not sure what current rating the machines are, but I also cannot remember seeing a y-coupler available in that range.

Besides, how could two machines on 32A (if they are drawing 32A) pull a total of 64A from a 32A socket? It doesn't seem reasonable to me. I think the customer is wishing for a quick fix to something that requires a proper visit from a sparky!!

Thanks again!

 

[Spark123]

They probably can't draw 64A without popping a fuse or tripping an MCB etc. A properly designed installation will not have this problem which is why I suggest doing the job properly. I have seen first hand what people get up to when the fuses keep popping! I take it that it is an industrial type installation?

 

[plugwash]

If the two machines are too power hungry to be run off the socket at the same time and the customer doesn't want more wiring how about a supply changeover switch wired in reverse and then to two sockets.