Bandsaw Power Requirements

[robo]

I am looking to upgrade my bandsaw to a more powerful one but am worried about the electric power requirements - I just have a domestic 12/13amp single phase supply.

Am I correct in thinking that up to 2HP is OK for 13amps but over that 16amps is necessary?
For example the new Startrites (3HP) require 16 amps but the older types 352 (1Hp) would be OK on a domestic supply?
Is there anyway around this 16amp requirement that does not cost the earth? Any suggestions for good old ones that will run on 12 amps?
Any advice much appreciated

R

[davyowen]

Some 3HP bandsaws will advise you to install a dedicated 16A supply but this is not always a necessary step. If your EFLI (earth fault loop impedance) is below the standard set in BS7671 then you can change the B-type breaker that protects the circuit you are using and replace it with a C-type. This will prevent the breaker tripping due to the high start up current of the bandsaw and assuming that you won't be running the bandsaw under high load for a significant amount of time you won't have any problem running it through a 13A plug and socket.

Some questions you want to ask yourself are:

How old is your current electrical installation?
Was it fitted by a qualified electrician and do you have an 'Electrical Installation Certificate' with test results?
Do you have RCD protection?
Are you competent with electrical work and do you intend to comnply with the Part P regs or not?

[ivan]

Better check with the vendor - my Ax 5300 bandsaw's 1500W sp motor pops 13A fuses on run up so needs a 16A supply; 1100W no problem.

[jonnyd]

Hi my bandsaw is a startrite 351SE with a 1100w 1 1/2 hp motor which runs fine of standard ring main. In my experience it is usually the quality of the blade and using the right type of blade that makes the difference rather than how powerfull the motor is.

Jon