Is it possible to convert power from a 3-pin 110V industrial socket to 240V, so I can use standard power tool?

July 24, 2010 by admin · 5 Comments
Filed under: Do It Yourself (DIY) 
power tools
b.pantha asked:

On the buidling site where I am going to work they only have these yellow 3-pin industrial 110V sockets (which alos require different plugs). Are there any converters or transformers, which I can plug in to use my standrad 240V tools? Thanks in advance for all the help! Mike

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5 Responses to “Is it possible to convert power from a 3-pin 110V industrial socket to 240V, so I can use standard power tool?”
  1. knownout says:
    July 25, 2010 at 9:11 pm

    yes a transformer will do it but a biggish one as you will need sufftcient current to operate your power tools ,, Look at the wattages of the tools and make sure the transformer produces enough , not just a matter of making 240v , And you might only be able to use one tool at a time .. weigh it up .. Big transformer can be costly ,, might it be better to hire,, or even hire 110v tools just for this job knownout

  2. Jan Luv says:
    July 27, 2010 at 7:09 am

    no not really
    110/120 volts is 1/2 the voltage need by you tools.
    You need to buy 110/120 voltage tools or locate 220/240 volt outlets to operate your tools Jan Luv

  3. Dave C says:
    July 29, 2010 at 3:32 pm

    Something that shouldn’t be done.

    If you are on a construction site particularly in the UK the health & safety legislation dictates that only 110V power tools be used.

    This is to reduce the seriousness of any possible electric shock particularly on a construction site type environment (possibly with water and other “wet” materials - cement / plaster etc).

    Additionally on largish construction sites you will not be allowed to carry on working if you do not have power tools of the correct type - 110V and double insulated or battery.

    If it is a small construction site (not heavily policed as it were) you may get away with it - but I wouldn’t risk it. Dave C

  4. Stef1411 says:
    July 31, 2010 at 8:54 pm

    dave c is spot on,
    no you cant change 240v tools to 110v, it is also now illegal to use 240v on site so don’t bother taking them in , you need to buy 110v tools and a transformer to run them. don’t try changing the plugs its just dangerous and will fu*k your tools. Stef1411

  5. The Tank says:
    August 1, 2010 at 3:45 pm

    It is possible to buy 110-230v transformers which are sturdy enough for site use but they will be expensive, more than the cost of a typical industrial power tool. You would also have to get suitable ruggedised IP56 plugs and sockets too to convert the connectors.

    Apart from that, as has been said. It would be illegal. If you use 230V power tools on a building site you would be hit with a very expensive fine. If someone got a shock that could easily be in the order of £10k, which you would have to pay. The builder who employed you would also be hit hard by the Health and Safety Executive and your professional reputation would be ruined (i.e no reputable builder would ever employ you again).

    Seriously, if you intend to work on a building site you should brief yourself on all of the relevant Health and Safety laws. You don’t need to become an expert because someone on the site will already be one. But if you are considering using illegal power tools then you have a lot to learn. You should also check up on what else applies to your trade. People especially tend to ignore protective equipment laws - and get into big trouble because of it. The Tank

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