Triple Tap Power for CT

[flair woodworks]

I recently made a more permanent and user -friendly solution to have multiple tools plugged into my CT26 at the same time. Basically, I cut three holes in the front of the hood and used a pair of U bolts to secure the power splitter. The holes are just under 1" diameter - big enough for the prongs to get through but not big enough for the body of the plug.

The splitter was taken from a retractable power cable.

 

[rljatl]

I use these my for CT26 and midi.
Lighted triple tap
[attachimg=1]

 

[Peter_C]

I like the idea of the OP's project, but there are two things that stand out. First is the function of the newly installed plug. The small holes won't let the plugs sit completely flush. Cut them a little bigger and you should be good to go, although smaller washers might be in order too. The second one is not an issue as long as you are not inspected on a job site. The male plug installed is not allowed on many job sites in the USA, but it is also a hot topic of discussion as it will work perfectly fine.

Since having a triple tap is nice, I myself use a high quality cord, that is about 3ft, has GFI, with a triple tap at the end. Just gotta remember to swap the vacuum hose. There might have been more than a few times I have forgotten to swap the hose...

 

[Cheese]

The male plug installed is not allowed on many job sites in the USA, but it is also a hot topic of discussion as it will work perfectly fine.

Just curious, what makes the plug taboo? That style plug usually has multiple UL & SA compliances.

 

[Naildrivingman]

I’m by no means throwing water on the OP’s fire, just wondering why a high quality “cube tap” (one 3 prong male and three 3 prong female) as I’ve heard it called could not be used?  Plug this directly into the existing CT receptacle.

 

[Peter_C]

The male plug installed is not allowed on many job sites in the USA, but it is also a hot topic of discussion as it will work perfectly fine.

Just curious, what makes the plug taboo? That style plug usually has multiple UL & SA compliances.

OSHA says you can, but the cord must be back to original UL rating, which is impossible since most cords have a molded end. This topic has been discussed thoroughly, and many contractors that work mostly on commercial sites state they are required to stop using any damaged cords, or cords with replacement ends, even if the replacement ends are UL rated.
https://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=INTERPRETATIONS&p_id=27353

Personally I don't see it as problem, and would prefer a cord end is updated when they get worn out vs keeping on using the cord to save money on buying a new cord. Some of the 10 gauge cords get dang expensive.

 

[Corwin]

I’m by no means throwing water on the OP’s fire, just wondering why a high quality “cube tap” (one 3 prong male and three 3 prong female) as I’ve heard it called could not be used?  Plug this directly into the existing CT receptacle.

That's what I've had plugged into my CT for the last decade. Works just fine for me.  [smile]

 

[ChuckM]

I no longer have the CT26. I used to have this kind (image) on it.

 

[Naildrivingman]

I no longer have the CT26. I used to have this kind (image) on it.

That is the kind I use and am referring to.  It works for me.

 

[John Stevens]

This thread made somebody in Lebanon, IN spatter coffee all over his desk.  Or it will on Monday morning.

—John

 

[antss]

The risk management div. prob. isn't in Lebanon.  [unsure]

 

[Roseland]

I simply plug one of these in the the CT26, and hang it from the ceiling over my workbench:
http://www.axminster.co.uk/brennenstuhl-6-way-energy-cube-151703

Andrew

 

[Distinctive Interiors]

I simply plug one of these in the the CT26, and hang it from the ceiling over my workbench:
http://www.axminster.co.uk/brennenstuhl-6-way-energy-cube-151703

Andrew

I use something very similar in my workshop with my CT26.

 

[Cheese]

OSHA says you can, but the cord must be back to original UL rating, which is impossible since most cords have a molded end.

Thanks for the reply...it seems like Bill Parsons/OSHA should sign up for the "Reality Parade".

"To satisfy the requirements of the OSHA standards, a repair would have to restore the tool to its "approved" condition in accordance with §1926.403(a). Tools ... are approved as complete factory-produced entities. The approval is for the tool as a whole - its design, capacity, materials and construction. This provision precludes the use of an approved tool if its characteristics are materially altered."
Sincerely,

Bill Parsons, Acting Director
Directorate of Construction, OSHA

My father worked in HVAC for over 40 years. Back then it was considered a God-send if the frayed cord had even a wrap or two of electrical tape over the frayed area. Usually they were just left open and as long as there was no bare copper showing it was good enough. [eek]

I can remember growing up, that whenever I needed to use an extension cord, I had to ask my father first as he knew which ones I wouldn't get a shock from. [eek]

 

[flair woodworks]

I've seen triple tap outlets in the style [member=18283]RobBob[/member] uses, but didn't know that they existed outside of light duty ones. I do like that I can plug or unplug tools with one hand, not that I do it often. A 16 gauge Plug-It cord remains in one receptacle and my Mirka CEROS in another. For anyone considering doing what I did... it's probably not worth the time.

Oh, and I didn't make the holes bigger because I didn't want to weaken the front section of the  hood.