60 amp to 30 amp pigtail cord?

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archer man

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KS
I am looking for info about making a "reducer" cord or pigtail.
I have a welding circuit that is protected by a 60 amp breaker feeding a single 60 amp receptacle. In the past an operator has used this circuit for a brick saw. The saw has a cord with a 30 amp male plug. He then uses a "converter" consisting of a 30 amp female with a 60 amp male cord and then plugs into the 60 amp welding circuit for power.
I can't find in the code where this wouldn't be legal. Any opinion's would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
 
Try an RV, camper or travel-trailer dealer. They're called Park Adapters, Converter Cords, Cord Adapters and Dogbones.

RVdogbone.jpg
 
This "invention" circumvents the requirements of 406.7. I think it is also a violation of 240.5, in that the flexible cable is required to be protected by one of the methods shown, and this application is not covered by one of those methods.

Code issues aside, this is just plain dangerous. Neither the flexible cord nor the saw is protected against overcurrent.
 
Are those things rated for the 60 amps for which the branch circuit is rated?

I'm not sure.. I've never personally seen one, so I don't know if they're even NTLR listed. They're probably working on the assumption that there's a 30a OCD somewhere downstream that would limit the current flow through it to 30 amps or less
 
I did forget to mention that the saw has a fused disconnect with 30 amp fuses. In theory protecting the cord and plug from an OC condition. Thanks for the replies.
 
The only comment I have is that any thing you plug into the 60 amp that has a lesser rating may be at danger if anything shorts out. The 60 won't trip if you have a 30/40 appliance/machine plugged into it.

Wh don't you use it to fed a sub panel and install the proper breaker to protect what you are using it for?
 
I did forget to mention that the saw has a fused disconnect with 30 amp fuses. In theory protecting the cord and plug from an OC condition. Thanks for the replies.


That was my first question; is there 30 amp OCP for whatever is being plugged in. Charlie is right in that it is UL listed for its design, but there is still the responsibility in using it correctly. Most of the rv cords are used for plugging smaller rvs into what may be the only available campground pole. If used properly it basically becomes a tap feeder.
 
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