US tools in the UK

[madjalapeno]

I'm building a nice collection of Festool tools (amongst others) and had a worrying thought.

We may be moving back to the UK in the next few years. Will any of my tools work over there, even with an isolating transformer to convert the voltage?

Would hate to have to start again.

 

[AlexThePalex]

With a transformer, all your tools will work in the UK.

But for a long term solution, this wouldn't be very comfortable. I don't know what your plan is, move permanently to the UK or only for a couple of years? For a couple of years, a transformer might be doable, but permanently, that's a hassle and you might be better off selling your tools in the States and get them new in the UK.

 

[vkumar]

While you can easily convert the voltage with. transformer, not so easy to change the frequency from 60 Hz to 50 Hz, The motor wil run slower ,about 20 % slower.
Only you can decide if you can live with this, in addition to lugging. a right sized transformer.

 

[AstroKeith]

While you can easily convert the voltage with. transformer, not so easy to change the frequency from 60 Hz to 50 Hz, The motor wil run slower ,about 20 % slower.
Only you can decide if you can live with this, in addition to lugging. a right sized transformer.

Only if the ac motor is synchronous. Routers and sanders etc with electronic speed control wouldnt be affected.

 

[notenoughcash]

cordless tools wont be affected either, just sell the us chargers on that side of the pond, and then buy suitable chargers over here.

 

[madjalapeno]

Thanks everyone.