240v Extension cord?

krops13 · 03-13-2010, 04:14 AM

I've found some for 25ft but not able to find some with 50ft length. I'm interested in a electric system but may be postponed if I can't find a cord. I'm thinking it can't be done. can someone enlighten me please!!!

wilserbrewer · 03-13-2010, 04:22 AM

It would be pretty easy to make a cord to the length required. Keep in mind that the longer the cord, the larger the wire required to deal w/ voltage drop.

Purchase wire, and a male and female plug...assemble.

krops13 · 03-13-2010, 04:26 AM

Good idea any idea what size?

**md20_20** · 03-13-2010, 10:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by krops13

Good idea any idea what size?

Depends on the current draw required. I am not an electrician but I have seen numerous references that state that for a 240V/30A extension cord, it's acceptable to use 10 gauge cable. 10/3 SJO is what you're looking for.

Here's a good thread on this, ironically with the same title as this thread:

http://www.homebrewtalk.com/f51/240v-extension-cord-150644/

**Sawdustguy** · 03-13-2010, 02:14 PM

You may want to go to a larger gauge than what is required for the current because 50 feet is a pretty long run. The larger the conductor, the less resistance to current flow per foot. If you think about it the wire is just like a resistor with a specific resistance per foot. Take for example 10 gauge wire. It has a resistance of .0018 ohms per foot. Over 50 feet it has a resistance of .059 ohms. If you are drawing 30 amps and calculate the power dissapated by the cable using P=Current squared x Resistance, you are dissapating 53.1 watts of power in heat or about 1 watt per foot. Thats a little high. If you go to 8 gauge wire you will dissipate only 33 watts.

**Yooper** · 03-13-2010, 02:17 PM

I have no idea the answer to this question!

lschiavo made one for me, though. Maybe shoot him a PM and he can give you the details, including cost.

I will say that 50 feet seems excessive. Where are you putting the brewery? I think mine is around 10 feet.

krops13 · 03-13-2010, 02:57 PM

I live in an apartment and I plan to put it on My patio. I allready brew all grain out there with propane but propane is expensive. I found a 240v plug with a 50amp dedicated breaker. I planed to unplug the stove which is plugged into the outlet and plug in the berwery.

**bf514921** · 03-13-2010, 03:38 PM

50 amp, you will need at least 6 gauge, for that run maybey 4? that is an expensive extention cord. plus if you want it flexible it will be even more.

krops13 · 03-13-2010, 04:08 PM

O so I have to make a cord capable of the 50 amps even if I don't plant to use all 50. I was thinking of putting a 30 amp or so breaker on my control panel for added security.

TonySwank · 03-13-2010, 04:14 PM

You can't really buy a 240 extension cord, at least I've never seen one, which makes me wonder about the safety.

If you do want to buy one try a dedicated generator supply store or maybe an RV dealership.