I don't know what it is called!

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BASengineer

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Let's say I need to control 2 pumps from one feed that doesn't have enough power to run both pumps at the same time. Isn't there a disconnect panel that has three positions; ON1, OFF and ON2. That would only allow one or the other pump to run. Is there some electrical code against something like this in Florida?
 
Manual or automatic switching? For manual you could use a double throw disconnect switch, for automatic some type of ATS or starter could be used.
 
Depends oh how far one wants to read between the lines when it comes to interlocking them so they can't run at the same time.

Most AHJ's will probably accept a mechanical interlock of nearly any type, but simple three position switch A off B is an electrical interlock and is sufficient IMO. If something malfunctions and they both do run - proper overcurrent protection will still protect conductors.
 
there are many pump alternator control panels available.

personally, I would probably use a reversing starter so only one of the contactors can be on at a time. then you could just have a switch to select the pump that runs.
 
BASengineer said:
Let's say I need to control 2 pumps from one feed that doesn't have enough power to run both pumps at the same time. Isn't there a disconnect panel that has three positions; ON1, OFF and ON2. That would only allow one or the other pump to run. Is there some electrical code against something like this in Florida?
Click to expand...

Are you looking for some type of controller that switches between the motors in order to equalize wear?

Search for 'duplex pump controller' if you want a complete package. Alternating relays might be used if you are working with existing starters
 
jim dungar said:
Are you looking for some type of controller that switches between the motors in order to equalize wear?

Search for 'duplex pump controller' if you want a complete package. Alternating relays might be used if you are working with existing starters
Click to expand...

Redundancy, but one of those duplex pump controllers looks like it will work.
 
We had an issue where we were wearing out air compressors so we set it up so A-B ran a week then B-C, then C-A, and so on. Lots of relays and such. Real problem was when something went wrong, there were lots more place you had to look to find it.
 
Awesome lots of good feedback. Being that reputable companies are selling devices like this it seems allowable in electrical code and building automaton code?
 
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