L6-30 to L6-20 adapter ok to use?

[themaxx25]

I’ve been looking at step-down transformers to connect to a SMX3000HVT. The step-down transformer that I currently have access to is a AP 9626, it has an output L6-30 plug, however the back of the SMX3000HVT has  2 L6-20 inputs. So wondering if I can use an L6-30 to L6-20 adapter between the AP 9626 and the SMX3000HVT?

[Teken]

Short answer: No

[themaxx25]

Hey Teken, Would you mind elaborating? 

Thank you

[Teken · Accepted solution]

Without knowing all the specific details of your environment, location, and laws. My reply will be over generalized to encompass as many things as possible.

The statements I make are from the viewpoint of operating in a a enterprise business environment. 

If this is for personal use than you / anyone can do whatever they want. But, would hope the above information would be considered and followed to insure safety and compliance with electrical codes / laws.

I’ll start with calling out the obvious which is you have two pieces of equipment which have two completely different plugs. They are different because NEC / CEC (North America) do not want the average person having the ability to insert said plug into any common household outlet or connect to other equipment that isn’t so rated.

The next obvious thing is the plug and cord set is only so rated for the ampacity it was designed for. Hence they don’t want you or someone else trying to draw 30 amps using a 20 amp (Plug & Cord) because that would result in a fire risk! ☝️

As I am sure you’re aware you could buy / make an adapter if you really wanted. But, the next thing as it relates to building codes is insurance and the coverage it provides in the event of an accident and the claim that follows.

Using and connecting an unapproved device in such a way not intended by the manufacturer is an obvious violation and denial of any insurance claim.

Almost every large Enterprise company also must adhere and meet ISO certification standards. The above is an obvious example of not meeting ISO standards and would fail any annual compliance audit.

Lastly, from an equipment standpoint it’s pretty rare where someone (Joe Public) actually knows and monitors what the connected loads are with a high level of accuracy. 

This is done in Enterprise even on the most basic level. To the extreme where energy consumption / efficiency is the primary goal for a facility that consume gigawatts of power.

Let me know if that helps. If you have more questions please do ask. 👍