What’s the difference between 110v and 240v power tools?

Posted on February 23rd, 2010 by admin

I live in the UK and was wondering which one i need to use a transformer with and which one i can plug straight into a power socket? Also which would you recommend buying, i heard one is supposed to be safer?

The mains is 240volt and that’s what you need for domestic tools.

On building sites, they use an isolating transformer to provide two 55volt lines out of phase. That means you can connect 110volt equipment across them. If someone puts a shovel through the cable, the worst shock he’ll get is 55volts which is unlikely to be fatal.

The physical differences are the gauge of the cable and the number of windings on the motor. 240volt equipment plugged into a 110volt supply will run off load at roughly quarter speed and is likely to stall on load. 110volt equipment plugged into a 240volt supply tends to burn out.

5 Responses

  1. jamand Says:

    240V – plug straight in

    110V – a transformer is needed.

    Both are safe if you use them properly…….the important thing to remember is this – IT IS NOT the voltage that kills you – it is the AMPS…..
    References :

  2. old know all Says:

    The mains is 240volt and that’s what you need for domestic tools.

    On building sites, they use an isolating transformer to provide two 55volt lines out of phase. That means you can connect 110volt equipment across them. If someone puts a shovel through the cable, the worst shock he’ll get is 55volts which is unlikely to be fatal.

    The physical differences are the gauge of the cable and the number of windings on the motor. 240volt equipment plugged into a 110volt supply will run off load at roughly quarter speed and is likely to stall on load. 110volt equipment plugged into a 240volt supply tends to burn out.
    References :

  3. urith d Says:

    130 volts to begin with. The 240 tool in the UK will function straight into the socket, the 110 will require the transformer to up the power to 240. All power tools are only as safe as the user!
    References :

  4. flah1342 Says:

    Contractors are required to use 110V tools in some locations because a shock from a 110v tool is less likely to be fatal and 110V tools use less power when on a construction site. However you will find that 240V tools are more powerful depending on your application.
    References :

  5. Bradley Says:

    voltage = shocks
    amps = death
    References :

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