malboz

Reading through the posts to date I have seen a number of suggestions for retractable power cords dropping from the roof.

I would just like to point out that running power through any form of coiled power cord poses a fire hazard unless the cord is always fully uncoiled. The coiled turns of cord have significantly more inductance than the cord would have if fully uncoiled. This has two effects, a significant increase in the voltage drop in the feed to the tool, and generating significnt heat in the tightly coiled cord within the case of the coiling mechanism. The safest way to avoid this problem is to avoid any form of coiled power cord.

A very usable alternative is to run one or two steel wires accross the bench from end to end just below the ceiling. Then attach carabiners to the wire (one for every couple of feet of wire) and the power cord from the carabiners with cable ties, allowing enough slack in the line for it to extend the required span. The cable can then be retracted to one end to give clearance over the bench, or drawn accross the bench to here power is needed. I find that having the cord terminate at about 3 feet above the bench is suitable but this may vary to suit userr requirements.

This certainly would help a newcomer with an old table saw, so much to learn and no manufacturers handbook to refer to. Thanks for the chance. Malb in Oz