Contactor for an Elecktra Beckum 140/20

[Mattonafarm]

Hello,

I have just been given an Electra Beckum 140/20, not working. On first inspection other than replacing the normal consumables the problem seems to be with the contactor. The wire feed side works but apparently when the power was turned up it blew the contactor. My question is what sought of current would I expect to flow through the contactor so that I can source a more suitable replacement? The one that has blown in only rated to 10A.

Any help most gratefully received.

Cheers

Matt

 

[the snooper]

just match the spec of the original, if it has blown the contacts then I would think there could be another problem, transformer on its way out or rectifier shorting worth testing both before spending

 

[Mattonafarm]

Thanks for the reply, I've drawn a blank on the original I have a part number but no specs and the one that is in there doesn't look like it is the original, I think the person who gave it to me lent it to someone else and it came back "mended" if you get what I mean. I was hoping that it should have a more meaty relay than the one I have taken out.

I have a look at the transformer and rectifier as well.

Cheers
Matt

 

[rtbcomp]

Does it have a rating plate that states the maximum input current? If so, use this as a guide.

 

[Robotstar5]

Do you know the coil voltage and the number of poles (contacts) that switch to make searching easier.

 

[Mattonafarm]

Does it have a rating plate that states the maximum input current? If so, use this as a guide.

Good idea I had a look and it is 16A at 140A i.e. full power the one that is in there is only rated at 10A hence why it went bang. Worryingly the unit has a 13A plug top on it if it is rated at 16A shouldn't it have a plug?

Matt

 

[rtbcomp]

Many people have 13A plugs fitted and don't use it at full blast. I'd fit a 16A commando plug. 13A plugs get warm at 13A and a lot of them don't have very good fuse clips, so there's more losses there.

 

[mike 109444]

You will also need to know if the coil on the contactor needs AC or DC. Had to replace mine recently as I had converted part of machine and so the contactor was being feed with DC but it was an AC contactor! so eventually fried the coil in the contactor. Replaced with DC type to cure. There is no reason why you could not fit on over rated contactor >20A. Do you have a pic of the current (no pun intended) contactor wiring?
And welcome BTW