Industrial extension cords

[cthfield3]

This has probably been asked but I do not have much time to search the forum here at work....
Is there is a restriction on extension cord lengths in a industrial setting? For instance, we have fans around our machines for the operators and these fans are moved around quite often. They usually are plugged in directly to outlets, but sometimes extension cords are needed. So to not use an extension cords, the department manager would like to have the standard 6 ft cord on the fan to be replaced with an 18 ft cord. Is this ok? The code only goes into the uses and types of cord but not the lengths.

Thanks,

Todd

 

[safetyva]

Industrial extension cords

This would be replacing the existing cord back to the fan motor, not just adding a 12' extension cord with plugs on each end?

Usually if you want to modify an appliance, you'll still have to meet the UL listing for the fan. See if the manufacturer allows replacement cords; or check the UL listing and see what the maximum length of cord allowed is.

How about overhead pendants to avoid all the cord on the floor?

 

[cthfield3]

There are so many fans and so many machines that anything overhead is almost out of the question. Not to mention the 24' fans suspended from the 30' ceiling over the machines. (This part of the plant does not have AC!)

But yes, I was going to replace the existing cord to the fan motor with a longer cord. I would be using a more suitable SO cord with the same gage wire. Normally we would just use and extension cord when needed, but as they buy new fans, they want the existing cords replaced from the get-go.

 

[LarryFine]

Cords are meant for temporary use, and your use certainly qualifies. If it was my place, I'd rather keep using extension cords when necessary, and not have to deal with the extra length when not needed.