My saw came with a standard 110 plug already on it. That's why i never thought anything about it until I read on some web site that they came wired for 220.
I guess the web site was wrong because it starts and runs fine.
I also have a 2 HP motor that came with my lathe, I have been running with a 1/4 HP motor because I didn't want to run the extra wire. It hasn't bothered me being underpowered. I guess I'll leave it alone until I get ready to mount a 200 pound bowl blank.
Mike, it would be interesting to open the wiring box and check the motor wiring to see if wired for 120V or 240V. Rikon's website states the 10-325 Deluxe Bandsaws are pre-wired for 120V. Page 16 of the manual here
http://www.rikontools.com/images/Manuals/10325.pdf I can't remember which model you have. :eusa_thin
Here's a link to some good, general info on single phase induction motor types with some performance data. There are a lot of options depending on application and load characteristics.
http://net.grundfos.com/doc/webnet/professional_profile/pdf/2_Single_phase_motors.pdf
In Section 2.8 they have a simple diagram showing a typical split winding 120/240 arrangement with permanent run capacitor. If the BS motor in question was wired for 240V operation but fed with 120V, then I believe that this motor might run (but at 1/2 rated torque and HP) ...unless the load exceeded the torque capability of the derated motor. I would expect startup ramp times to be very long on a high inertia load. Now, if the motor was wired for 120V operation and fed with 240V, you would exceed the torque capabilities, resulting in motor overload.
Regarding Steve Cole's comments:
Thank you for making the point. After reading your comments I have spent a great deal of time searching online for manufacturer's or professional forums, looking at various single phase motor designs and operating characteristics. I have actually learned a lot about single phase motors.
My answer is no different as it applies to the question of 33 percent HP increase at 240V versus 120V operation. However, I realize I steered the discussion toward a battle of opinions of HP, efficiency, line loss , etc. In that regard, a different response would have been more helpful to Peter.
A better initial approach to the pslamp32's question might be to ask:
- What is the motor full load amps at 120V and 240V?
- Is there a dedicated 20 amp ckt available to feed the new TS?
- If not, what circuits are available and what machines or loads are already on that circuit?. Please include wire size from breaker to outlet and breaker size.
- How far is the machine from the outlet to be used?
- How many unused spaces are available in your distribution panel?
The answers to those questions would eventually lead to a solid recommendation.
I am very familiar with 460V, 60 Hz, 3-phase motors and have quite a bit of experience with medium voltage (2300V, 3-phase) motors up to 1000HP. Much of what I share on discussions of motors/controls, etc is based on my work experience. Admittedly, I just don't have much experience with single phase motors. I do have a solid foundation in the theory behind motor operation and control.
I am not anti 240 Volt. The 240V loads in my shop are TS, jointer, BS, DC. In each case a 240V feed allowed me to use smaller wire and breakers compared with 120V feed.
I enjoy the fact that we can have such open discussions here. It is interesting to read the different pieces of information and different perspectives on technical topics. This topic has pushed me to learn a little bit more than I thought I knew.
Chuck