Converting a 120V motor to 240V

[Al Smith]

Come to NZ, it's all 240v here.

Voltages and frequencies on a global thing can vary quite a bit .For example get into Japanese stuff that could be 200 volts single and 365 three phase .BTW I spent over 50 years of being a union electrician and have experianced a lot of odd ball stuff . Quite frankly it became a challange to rework those machines to operate in the USA but with enough transformers it can be done .I once told a group of apprentices under my instructions if I had enough transformers I could make a bolt of lightning .

 

[Wonkydonkey]

I’d go for the 240 option. Due to the fact the motor is capable and it’s 1/2 the amps of when ran on 120v

I could be wrong but it should run better and fill a bit faster..

 

[Philbert]

For larger motors (3hp, 5hp), you would want 240V.

An advantage of keeping it 120V is if you ever wanted to use it somewhere else, temporarily: basement, garage, project site, etc., away from your primary shop.

20A, 120V outlets are easier to find.

Philbert

 

[OnlyStihl]

@OnlyStihl what size motor does your compressor have? What's the amps drawn @ 120v?

It is a Dewalt dxcm251.

 

[Powerstroke Cowboy]

It is a Dewalt dxcm251.

Okay . 15 amps of draw just like my circular saw and reciprocating saw just to name a few.