Amperage Service Needed?

[cfcreations]

Hi guys,

I have been on here a few times posting, but since forgot my log in and email i used to register... don't you hate it when that happens.

I run a small composites shop, but want to expand. I'm not sure when looking for a building what amperage service would meet my requirements. I understand 3 phase is just about necessary if not completely necessary.

I would like to power a HAAS VF3 mill, HAAS SL30 lathe, and I will be adding an autoclave and possibly a 5 axis router, and of course a 5hp air compressor. The clave will be electrically heated, verses steam.

How do i go about calculating how much electrical power service I need?
I'd hate to move into a building only to find out there isn't enough power.

Thanks

[underthetire]

For a VF3 3 phase would be mandatory. You simply need to find out what the FLA (full load amp) of each unit is, and add them together. I'm guessing the autoclave will require the most. You also might want to consider 480V for the autoclave and air compressor, then put transformers on the Haas. Might lower your electric bill by a bit.

[lgalla]

I agree with underthetire.480V/3ph is the way to go.You have not given enough information even to hazard a guess.An electric auto clave requires gobs of power even if small.Your compressor at 5Hp is small considering the machines you want to power
Larry

[txcncman]

As stated, for a smaller operation, just add up all of the max demand like if you were to switch on every single piece of equipment in start mode at once. Usually it works better to get the kVa numbers then determine voltage and back into the ampere demand. If you will contact your electric supplier, they are generally happy to help you with the calculations, since they see it as a possible increase in their business.

In a larger operation, an electrical engineer would make the calculations based off of peak average demand. In a smaller operation, it is much more difficult to calculate an average because your demand will swing wildly due to production changes. Better to just add them all up and go with that.

[wizard]

The key is to add up the full load amps. However don't forget all the other facilities needs. This includes things like lights, heating and hot water.

Also a 5 HP compressor might be on the small side if any of those machines consume air. So do the same thing and add up air consumption levels if any.

Hi guys,

I have been on here a few times posting, but since forgot my log in and email i used to register... don't you hate it when that happens.

I run a small composites shop, but want to expand. I'm not sure when looking for a building what amperage service would meet my requirements. I understand 3 phase is just about necessary if not completely necessary.

I would like to power a HAAS VF3 mill, HAAS SL30 lathe, and I will be adding an autoclave and possibly a 5 axis router, and of course a 5hp air compressor. The clave will be electrically heated, verses steam.

How do i go about calculating how much electrical power service I need?
I'd hate to move into a building only to find out there isn't enough power.

Thanks