POWERTEC Circuit Breaker Panel Safety Switch Review

The POWERTEC Circuit Breaker Panel Safety Switch is a master or emergency power off safety switch box designed to safeguard your woodworking machines. It features a simplistic, color-coded design with indented/bump style buttons to indicate whether the switch is open or closed. The switch fits deep gang boxes or standard boxes with an extension ring (6-32 hardware not included).

This safety switch is versatile and works with a wide assortment of popular name-brand table saws, drill presses, belt sanders, jointers, dust collectors, and other power tools. It offers dual voltage options (110V/220V) and is rated for a single phase. The switch has a rated current of 2HP/28 Amps at 120V and 3HP/16 Amps at 230V.

Please note that the POWERTEC Circuit Breaker Panel Safety Switch is approved according to UL508 E195428. It is built with heavy-duty electrical components and requires a force range of 40-60 Newtons or 9 to 13.5 pounds-force to activate.

Our Analysis and Key Insights

Here are some key insights about the POWERTEC Circuit Breaker Panel Safety Switch:

Works well for home shop use

The POWERTEC Circuit Breaker Panel Safety Switch is perfect for home shop use. It offers reliable safety features and can efficiently handle the demands of typical home woodworking projects. However, it may not be suitable for hard commercial use due to its limited robustness.

Requires extra deep electrical box

To accommodate the POWERTEC Circuit Breaker Panel Safety Switch, you will need to use an extra deep electrical box. This ensures proper installation and allows for the secure fitting of the switch.

Well-built and can handle heavy applications

The POWERTEC Circuit Breaker Panel Safety Switch is constructed with durability in mind. It is well-built and can handle heavy applications, making it suitable for demanding woodworking projects.

Lack of schematic and instructions

One downside of the POWERTEC Circuit Breaker Panel Safety Switch is the lack of a schematic and instructions. This can make installation more challenging, especially for those who are not familiar with electrical work.

Difficult to mount in a standard box

Some users have reported difficulties when attempting to mount the POWERTEC Circuit Breaker Panel Safety Switch in a standard box. The back of the switch may not fit into the outlet box plate cover opening, requiring modifications or alternate installation methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the operating voltage of this switch?

The operating voltage of this switch is 120 Volts.

Can I use this switch with a drill press?

Yes, this switch works with a wide assortment of popular power tools, including drill presses.

Does this switch have a lock feature?

Yes, the start button can be locked to prevent unauthorized use.

Is this switch suitable for commercial use?

While this switch works well for home shop use, it may not be robust enough for hard commercial use.

What is the force range required to activate this switch?

A force range of 40-60 Newtons or 9 to 13.5 pounds-force is required to activate this switch.

Overall, the POWERTEC Circuit Breaker Panel Safety Switch is a versatile and well-built safety switch that offers excellent value for the price. It is designed to handle heavy applications and fits a wide assortment of popular power tools. However, it may require an extra deep electrical box for installation and lacks a schematic and instructions. Despite these minor drawbacks, this safety switch is highly recommended for anyone looking to enhance the safety of their woodworking machines.