Mig welding and cable run.

[pc1966]

To meet 5% voltage drop at 32A you need 10mm, for a more realistic 13A load it is 4mm.

There are three sizing requirements for cables:

• Current carrying capacity (CCC) to avoid overheating
• Voltage drop (VD) so end loads are operating within expected tolerance
• Earth fault impedance (Zs) to make sure Automatic disconnection of Supply (ADS) is met sufficiently fast depending on the circuit protection (fuse/MCB, use of RCD)

 

[Hanson]

To meet 5% voltage drop at 32A you need 10mm, for a more realistic 13A load it is 4mm.

There are three sizing requirements for cables:

• Current carrying capacity (CCC) to avoid overheating
• Voltage drop (VD) so end loads are operating within expected tolerance
• Earth fault impedance (Zs) to make sure Automatic disconnection of Supply (ADS) is met sufficiently fast depending on the circuit protection (fuse/MCB, use of RCD)

Thank you

As the new Mig will be rated up to 150amp, if the existing external socket is changed to a 16 amp RCD protected socket and the existing MCB is changed to a 16amp rating would this help me when it comes to the size and length of the extension lead?

 

[westward10]

It is not permitted to have unshuttered socket outlets in a dwelling both 16 and 32A fall into this category.
Does the welder come with a fitted 13A plug?

 

[Hanson]

It is not permitted to have unshuttered socket outlets in a dwelling both 16 and 32A fall into this category.
Does the welder come with a fitted 13A plug?

My error in my original post which I corrected, the existing 32 amp socket is not in the property but externally fitted.

 

[pc1966]

It is not permitted to have unshuttered socket outlets in a dwelling both 16 and 32A fall into this category.

Would that also apply to those outlets with an interlocked switch? I.e. where the contacts cannot be live without the appropriate plug being inserted to allow the switch to be turned to the on position.

 

[Rockingit]

It is not permitted to have unshuttered socket outlets in a dwelling both 16 and 32A fall into this category.

If fitted with interlocks then no problem. It's also back to that classic argument of where does a 'dwelling' end - I've both 16 & 32's in my workshop, at home.

 

[Hanson]

It is not permitted to have unshuttered socket outlets in a dwelling both 16 and 32A fall into this category.
Does the welder come with a fitted 13A plug?

I hadn't answered your question in my previous reply. the new Mig will come fitted with a 13a plug top.

Most I believe do.

 

[Hanson]

If fitted with interlocks then no problem. It's also back to that classic argument of where does a 'dwelling' end - I've both 16 & 32's in my workshop, at home.

My existing external 32amp socket will be replaced with one with RCD protection.

As @westward 10 says it is not permissible to fit an unshutterd socket in a dwelling, I didn't think it possible to buy an unshuttered version for domestic use for inside a property, I've never seen one.

Does the 16 or 32amp external type require an interlock switch?

I have no garage or work shed at the moment but working, using a very large, exposed concrete patio area.

 

[pc1966]

If you are using a welder with 13A plug then a 13A extension lead is practical. You could make one with 2.5mm which is about as much that will squees in to decent 13A plugs & in-line sockets and a quick check says it is OK for VD at 40m length.

Or maybe better, put in a couple of fixed weatherproof sockets around the area so you are never more than 15m from one when you need it! That way 6mm cable could be used, but it has to be UV proof so not T&E !!! (Unless in conduit/trunking)

 

[westward10]

2.5 is beyond the specification for a 13A plug.