480 Volt plug on 208 Volt equipment

[dbuckley]

I agree that in theater/production it can be it's own world, but I don't like being told by the manufacturer that it's the only plug/connector config. that they use and to just make it work.

Although I see where you're coming from, its a bit of a harsh judgement.

"Strange" connectors on chain motors is entirely normal in this industry (globally, though the connectors vary by continent), and the reason is to make sure mistakes dont happen.

Looks like in the particular facility you're in they've found another way of making mistakes possible...

 

[pfalcon]

406.3(F) ... not interchangeable.
406.7 ... do not accept an attachment plug with a different voltage or current rating ...

You cannot stick a 480V plug and receptacle on a 208V controller in a facility that has both available. Somebody will take that 208V controller and plug it into a real 480V receptacle and smoke it.