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View Full Version : What type of plug will I need to wire my air compressor 208-240 volt 15 amp motor


butchfragrance
Dec 20, 2009, 09:37 PM
I just bought a 60 gallon air compressor and it didn't come with a plug. I need to know what type of plug I'm going to need to wire to it. It just has 2 connections (1 black 1 white). What type of plug do I buy to hook up, and where can I get one? The motor is 208-240 volts 15 amps.

Missouri Bound
Dec 21, 2009, 06:47 PM
This compressor is probably intended to be hard wired, with a ground. Are there just two wires at the control or is there an actual cord coming from it?

KISS
Dec 22, 2009, 08:21 AM
I would agree. Hardwired to a separate circuit with a disconnect. Local if required. This also allows you to size the circuit based on motor loads. i.e. The breaker can be larger than what would normally be allowed for resistive loads.

What is the wire gage of the cord that's connected. Did the compressor say whay size circuit and wire size that's needed?
What is the HP of the motor?

Distance to the panel may be useful too.

It's really best to hardwire motor loads of that size.

I'll bet 15A is the circuit size required because I'll also bet it's not a 2.5 HP motor.

If you do decide to go the standard 15 A route, I'd reccomentd a right angle plug. They hold and don't unplug easy, but are very expensive. Like $15-$20. The ones I used for a project were hospital grade. These plugs allow inspections of the wiring because part of the housings are clear.

If this is a permanent installation, you could also use a twist lock.

Do not by a cheap plug.