Can I use a flat blade 6-20 plug instead of the curved blade L6-20?

[Ken Platt]

Folks -

I'm trying to wire up my new Griz G0490X jointer, and thought I'd gotten prepared by having a 240v receptacle put in with the straight blade configuration (6-20) . I also got plugs from home depot of the NEMA 6-20 variety, also with the straight blades, one at 90 degrees to the other.

The Griz manual shows an L6-20, which has the curved blades. Is there a functional difference (besides that the L6-20 looks to be able to lock, which doesn't seem to be a big deal for me, I think)? I'd hate to have to buy more stuff and swap the receptacle, but certainly will if it matters.

Thanks -

Ken

[Kirk Poore]

No, they're the same. Each plug should have the voltage and amerage rating on it (20 is for 20 amps).

Kirk

[Chris Padilla]

The L6-20 is a twist-lock. You plug it in and give it a little twist which locks it in and prevents it from being yanked out. That is the only difference.

[Don Jarvie]

I don't think it matters at all. I run all my 220 machines using the same plugs as you with no issues.

If I was to guess they probably suggest that type of plug for safety reasons.

[Ralph Butts]

As per Chris's post the L6-20 is a locking plug. It provides a bit of protection against inadvertently removing the plug from the receptacle due to modest tension on the cord.

[Ken Platt]

Thanks folks. That's what it looked like, but I wanted to be sure.

Ken