Replies

1. 
   JohnD1 | Aug 13, 2007 10:33pm | #1

   First--I am assuming that the motor shows how to wire the motor for 220 V.  If it doesn't, you of course can't change the operating voltage.  I rewired my table saw and dust collector for 220 V.

   Does the motor create less heat on 220V?

   ANS: No.  The same total current flows in the coils.  At 110 V there are two coils connected in parallel.  At 220 V the two coils are connected in series, so each has 110 V across it.

   Is it more efficient?

   ANS: Sort of.  220 V uses lower current, so the losses in the building wiring are lower.

1. 
   DanH | Aug 13, 2007 10:35pm | #2

   And, as a result of the lower current, it'll generally start a little faster and not stall as easily.
   So convenient a thing it is to be a reasonable Creature, since it enables one to find or make a Reason for everything one has a mind to do. --Benjamin Franklin

1. 
   junkhound | Aug 14, 2007 02:07am | #3

   as a result of the lower current, it'll generally start a little faster

   Slight clarification for lower priced motors -- it starts faster because the current in the start winding is HIGHER on 240 than on 120.  Most low priced dual voltage motors provide only a SINGLE 240 V start winding, hence, the pathetically slow start at 120Vac, as only 1/2 voltage (hence 1/2 current and 1/4 the start winding power) is being applied to the start winding.

    

2. 
   corrib | Aug 14, 2007 05:36pm | #4

   It would seem that with the exception of the stalling, I probably wouldn't be gaining that much in rewiring.

   Would the motor last longer with the higher voltage and easier starts?

1. 
   DanH | Aug 14, 2007 06:26pm | #5

   The advantage would be most noticeable if your shop were some distance from the service entrance, causing voltage drop to be significant. It would also be helpful for a device that was marginal on a standard 20A circuit.
   So convenient a thing it is to be a reasonable Creature, since it enables one to find or make a Reason for everything one has a mind to do. --Benjamin Franklin

1. 
   corrib | Aug 14, 2007 06:42pm | #6

   Dan,

   Thanks for info! You've always been helpful with my various electrical questions.

   After all of the info shared here, I think I'm going to leave well enough alone. The saw has it's own 20 amp circuit and I've not had any problems...

   So, when I get my new 5hp SCM bandsaw, I'll be sure to post an ad for a lightly used 115V Jet 16" bandsawsaw on Breaktime.  Based on my controller's (aka girlfriend) budget, it might be a little while. Personally, I think a new Italian bandsaw would make a great engagement present from me to her.

   Thanks again for the info.

   Patrick

    

    

   Edited 8/14/2007 11:44 am ET by Corrib