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Grounded Tools: Tools with Three Prong Plugs
3-Prong Plug and Outlet
1. Tools marked with "Grounding Required" have
a three wire cord and three prong grounding
plug. The plug must be connected to a properly
grounded outlet. If the tool should electrically
malfunction or break down, grounding provides
a low resistance path to carry electricity away
from the user, reducing the risk of electric shock.
(See 3-Prong Plug and Outlet.)
Extension Cords
1. Grounded tools require a three wire extension cord.
Double Insulated tools can use either
a two or three wire extension cord.
2. As the distance from the supply outlet increases,
you must use a heavier gauge extension cord.
Using extension cords with inadequately sized wire
causes a serious drop in voltage, resulting in loss of
power and possible tool damage. (See Table A.)
3. The smaller the gauge number of the wire, the
greater the capacity of the cord. For example,
a 14 gauge cord can carry a higher current
than a 16 gauge cord. (See Table A.)
4. When using more than one extension cord
to make up the total length, make sure
each cord contains at least the minimum
wire size required. (See Table A.)
5. If you are using one extension cord for more
than one tool, add the nameplate amperes
and use the sum to determine the required
minimum cord size. (See Table A.)
6. If you are using an extension cord outdoors, make
sure it is marked with the suffix "W-A" ("W" in
Canada) to indicate it is acceptable for outdoor use.
7. Make sure the extension cord is properly wired
and in good electrical condition. Always replace
a damaged extension cord or have it repaired
by a qualified electrician before using it.
8. Protect the extension cords from sharp objects,
excessive heat, and damp or wet areas.
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2. The grounding prong in the plug is connected
through the green wire inside the cord to the
grounding system in the tool. The green wire
in the cord must be the only wire connected to
the tool's grounding system and must never
be attached to an electrically "live" terminal.
(See 3-Prong Plug and Outlet.)
3. The tool must be plugged into an appropriate outlet,
properly installed and grounded in accordance
with all codes and ordinances. The plug and outlet
should look like those in the preceding illustration.
(See 3-Prong Plug and Outlet.)
TABLE A: RECOMMENDED MINIMUM WIRE
GAUGE FOR EXTENSION CORDS* (120/240 VOLT)
NAMEPLATE
AMPERES
25´
(at full load)
0 – 2.0
18
2.1 – 3.4
18
3.5 – 5.0
18
5.1 – 7.0
18
7.1 – 12.0
18
12.1 – 16.0
14
16.1 – 20.0
12
* Based on limiting the line voltage drop to five volts at
150% of the rated amperes.
EXTENSION CORD
LENGTH
50´
75´ 100´ 150´
18
18
18
18
18
16
18
16
14
16
14
12
14
12
10
12
10
-
10
-
-
Item 59567
16
14
12
12
-
-
-
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