1hp Hollow Chisel Mortiser: 110 or 220?

[Andrew Nemeth]

In preparation for the arrival of a Jet JFM-5 hollow chisel mortiser I am considering adding another 220 line in my shop. I will have to run at least 20' or more. With the cost of copper being so high this is not a small investment. Is it worth adding a 220 line for this tool or should I just run it 110?

[Dan Friedrichs]

Wow - big mortiser.

According to the specs, it'll draw 11A at 120V or 5.5A at 230V. If you've got a 120V 20A circuit already available for it (and don't have more than a few amps on it already), then I'd think 120V would be fine.

20' isn't a long run, though - if you're choosing between ADDING a 120V or 240V line, definitely add the 240V line.

[Neal Clayton]

no low-mid end standalone mortiser needs much power, 110 is fine. they're only 1.5-2hp motors at the most.

[Dewey Torres]

Neal has you right on track with the Mortiser question.

I would recommend you still consider another 220 though for future tool use.

I would bet if you stay into WW long enough and are like most of us, you will find a need for another large tool requiring 220.

At least you will be ready when you do.

[Andrew Nemeth]

Thanks for the quick reply. I think I'll probably stick with the 110 to start with. I already have 220 circuits for my planer, table saw, and Dust collector but none of them are conveniently located for the mortiser.

I'm just itching to do somthing to get ready for the new addition to my family (I think they call it nesting syndrom) :) Guess I'll just start sharpening and honing the chisels.