Step down transformer

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lche059

6 posts

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#239878 9-Aug-2018 02:48

there're threads asking the same questions before. but i guess my question is more specific.

i just bought a US circular saw 1800W model (15-Amp motor, 120v, 60hz).

just wondering if this transformer on trademe is gonna work for me?

https://www.trademe.co.nz/electronics-photography/other-electronics/adaptors-chargers/listing-1725893447.htm?rsqid=3e1ed95943df47b0bbf0d515e737e4c9

its max output is 2000W but continuous output only 1400w, that's why i'm not sure.

and i'm still waiting on the seller getting back to me on the operating frequency. if it's 50hz vs my saw's 60hz, i know it's not gonna work perfectly, rpm slower etc. but i'm only using it to fix my fence and deck. is it gonna cut it for my purpose?

PeterReader

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#2070343 9-Aug-2018 02:48

Hmmmm. Here we go.

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andrewNZ

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#2070350 9-Aug-2018 06:21

No that transformer is far too small.

A transformer will always supply the frequency of the supply it is plugged in to. In NZ that's 50Hz.

Unfortunately, your best option is probably to throw the saw away.

Bung

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#2070366 9-Aug-2018 07:43

If the circular saw is the usual brushed universal motor the frequency won't be an issue.

There are plenty of cheap circular saws available in NZ that will do fence and deck repairs. Trademe has heaps cheaper than the step down transformer. There would have to be something special about the US saw to make it worth persisting with. What is it?

lche059

6 posts

Wannabe Geek

#2070584 9-Aug-2018 12:03

nothing special really.

skil 5280-01 from amazon.

i just came across it when i shopped something else. i thought it's a good deal compared to local ones with the same specs.

unfortunately i also bought a cordless drill whose charger also uses 110v. so buying a transformer makes more sense.

so i probably need a 3000w transformer to drive the 1800w saw?

https://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=1725893455

Jase2985

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#2070601 9-Aug-2018 12:26

does adding the price of the transformer still make it a good deal?

tripper1000

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#2070657 9-Aug-2018 13:01

It the saw has soft start you may get away with using that transformer, as the transformer can output 2000w for 1 hour. Transformer is on the smaller side of ideal though. If the saw does not have soft-start you might find that it blows the transformer fuses every time you pull the trigger.

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djtOtago

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#2070725 9-Aug-2018 14:46

Also check the Amp rating for any extension cord you use between the saw and transformer. The saw requires 15A, and standard extension cords are often only rated at 10A.

1101

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#2070778 9-Aug-2018 15:38

Dont be surprised if specs on cheap Chinese transformers are complete BS .

NZ safety rating/tag ???? :-)

lche059

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#2070851 9-Aug-2018 17:14

djtOtago:

Also check the Amp rating for any extension cord you use between the saw and transformer. The saw requires 15A, and standard extension cords are often only rated at 10A.

that's another 50 bucks i just checked. looks like i'm gonna end up with an extra $200 bill for a simple oversight.

andrewNZ

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#2070862 9-Aug-2018 17:34

Obviously the extension cord needs to be a US one too.

What brand is the cordless drill, and have you checked the nameplate on the charger to make sure it isn't dual voltage?

This rabbit hole goes deep.
You'll end up spending more money than new gear is worth for a system you can't get anything for in NZ.

Keep the blade, chuck the saw.
We see about one builder a year who's looking to power the US tools he got for a bargain price (usually about $10k). They always come to the same conclusion, it's just not worth the money to make them work.

Aredwood

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#2070884 9-Aug-2018 19:00

lche059:
djtOtago:

Also check the Amp rating for any extension cord you use between the saw and transformer. The saw requires 15A, and standard extension cords are often only rated at 10A.

that's another 50 bucks i just checked. looks like i'm gonna end up with an extra $200 bill for a simple oversight.

Have you tried looking on Amazon UK / Europe?

As Europe uses between 220V - 250V at 50Hz. So much closer match to NZ power.

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richms

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#2070895 9-Aug-2018 19:52

Not sure what makes that saw any better than a cheapie ozito or similar. If it was a worm drive one then I could see the point in getting a transformer but not for a basic direct drive one.

Richard rich.ms

1101

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#2071055 10-Aug-2018 09:48

https://www.amazon.com/5280-01-15-Amp-4-Inch-Circular-Single/dp/B01BD81BLO

:-)

richms

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#2071182 10-Aug-2018 11:29

Also if you're looking for a good quality transformer to 115v look in the UK for a site transformer. Those cheap ones like Trademe links are way overrated and will probably pop their fuse the first time the saw bogs down and starts to try to pull 30A+ momentarily.

Richard rich.ms