Tap or run dedicated circuits?

[Shak180]

I have a customer that wants to build a fenced off work space inside their manufacturing facility/warehouse.

They want (2) 50 amp receptacles installed. They have (1) welder (23a draw), (1) plasma cutter (12a draw), and (1) electric heater (36a draw).

They'd only be using 2 of those 3 pieces of equipment at a time. They all work off 460v.

The closest 460V panel is about 250 to 260ft away. There's space for 3 more breakers in this panel.

What do you guys think is the best way to go about this install? Install (2) dedicated 50 amp circuits (each breaker is about $275) or run one 80 amp circuit (breaker is about $350), mount an enclosure near the receptacles, and tap off that circuit

 

[Shak180]

 

[LarryFine]

I like the idea of a feeder to a sub-panel near the receptacles.

 

[Little Bill]

I like the idea of a feeder to a sub-panel near the receptacles.

Yep

 

[tom baker]

The panel schedule could be improved. Print up a schedule in Excel the breakers are numbered. You need some kind of labeling when you install the feeder panel to identify the source

 

[Buck Parrish]

I like the idea of a feeder to a sub-panel near the receptacles.

me too

 

[Shak180]

I like the idea of a subpanel too. I called my local supply house and they are looking to see if they have all the parts in stock to put together a 480v Square D panel for me.

Thanks everyone!

 

[LarryFine]

A single, larger feeder can supply several loads with less voltage drop than individual circuits.

 

[James L]

A single, larger feeder can supply several loads with less voltage drop than individual circuits.

Besides that, who wants to walk half a block to turn breakers on or off?

Subpanel for sure