Smell, smoke and sparks!

[ChuckM]

As I was making some final cuts for the deflector wedges on the table saw (https://www.festoolownersgroup.com/other-tools-accessories/removing-table-saw-offcuts-safely/30/), a strong smoky smell was sensed, which eventually triggered the smoke alarm in my shop.

The plug on the IVAC auto switch and the connector on the electrical cord burned and melt! I believe I had not pushed the plug completely into the connector, causing sparks and a small fire on the cord. Lucky me (though I had a fire extinguisher nearby but did not need to use it)! I saw other posts mentioning about loose connections with the domino joiner or tools could result in damage to the machines, but did not realize a loose connection in the cord could have such risks.

The IVAC switch was not damaged, and the fuse breaker in it wasn't even triggered.

Interestingly, the neutral pin came off, not the hot one. Why was that?

 

[cubevandude]

This is a cheap cord with crappy ends.  Buy a heavier cord with good ends or make your own.  I really like the Leviton Square plugs like this one: https://www.amazon.ca/Leviton-5256-...ng/dp/B00009W3A8/ref=sr_1_11?keywords=leviton+plug&qid=1582337555&s=hi&sr=1-11
https://www.amazon.ca/Leviton-5359-...ng/dp/B000HEKRTI/ref=sr_1_81?keywords=leviton+industrial+grade&qid=1582337730&s=hi&sr=1-81

 

[Mortiser]

Except that you do want to match the amperage on both the male and the female plugs.

 

[Gregor]

Interestingly, the neutral pin came off, not the hot one. Why was that?

Hot and neutral pins make the circuit, burning them using too high resistance at the contact point will likely melt the one with higher resistance (as it'll heat up faster) first / more.

 

[ChuckM]

Thanks for all the comments. I have replaced the plug for the IVAC. I will pick up a couple of connectors from a hardware store.  The other plug from the IVAC (second image) looks ok. And I will make sure every connection in the shop is properly secured!