Does anyone know what it's called??

[Blurk99]

I used to have a mobile dust extractor that swirched on when the power tool plugged into it was switched on (the extractor had a plug socket on it) - what's this sort of arrangement called? in DIY eletrical terms is it easy to do? i've got a great extractor now but it doesn't have the power function and i'd like to retrofit if possible

cheers

jim

 

[rtbcomp]

I'm sure you can still get them from Screwfix or Machine Mart, or you can get mutli socket strips where one socket is the master and the others switch on as soon as the master draws current. CPC/RS/Farnells may be the place for those.

Technically it's not that difficult, but by the time you've got the bits, a box to build it into and done the work it would be cheaper to buy something ready made.

 

[madkayaker]

an extension lead designed for computer use would work the type that detect the load from a master socket sometimes called ECO sockets

 

[rikrobson]

that'll be a current sense switch.

Basically you need a special switch that passes the current un-switched to the socket that you connect the power tool to. the motor for the extractor is connected to the switch output.

When the power tool is switched on there is a current generated. This is detected by the sensor in the switch and this in turn switches the relay to power the extractor.

 

[alanrob]

one of these would probably do it

http://www.screwfix.com/prods/47389/Electrical-Supplies/Cable-Reels-Leads/Extension-Leads/Philex-Eco-PowerDome-Surge-Protected-Extension-Lead-6G-240V-1-5m