110V Power Tools

[Isan Farang]

I wish to purchase a 110v orbital sander from the USA.

Is it possible to purchase a step down transformer in Thailand to enable me to use the sander here ?

If available can someone guide me to a supplier.

[bankruatsteve]

110v stuff just doesn't work the same transformed from 220v. There's got to be a sander you like from here, that's a much better choice.

But, yes it's possible. Go just about any "Home" place and make sure you get capacity needed.

[wayned]

The basic problem is the frequency. In the US it's 60hz, here it's 50hz. It affects the speed of the motor. Step down transformers are readily available but only transform the voltage, not the frequency. I would recpmmend buying one here, plus the shipping will kill you! This company sells online, https://www.ktw.co.th/GRINDING__SANDING-AA0520. I would find what you want and then contact Bob Manthey at Ruangsangthai Ltd. to see if they can better the price or recommend a comparable model. They handle Dewalt, Makita and other popular brands. PM me and I will send you the email address.

[sunnyjim5]

Why buy 110V tools from the US which will likely not function here even with a transformer. ?

There are good tools which can be bought and will work here in Thailand.

An amusing pastime when I was working in the ME was listening to the wails from Americans who had plugged their expensive 110 stuff into 240V outlets !

They will never learn !

[craigt3365]

I brought over an internet router a few years ago. I'd had it for a few years and bought the transformer for it here. Had to move some stuff around and forgot about the transformer. Plugged it in and that was it. LOL

[Crossy]

One does wonder why, the major brands invariably make tools for both markets.

Anyway, the above is basically true, you may have issues.

Appliances are invariably built down to a price, rather than up to a spec.

Motors designed for 60Hz can get away with less iron in the cores and less copper in the coils, so, of course, the manufacturers do. Running such a motor on 50Hz could cause the core to saturate leading to excessive current flow and the associated overheating and burn out.

Things like coffee makers and blenders run for short periods with long cool-downs so usually survive. A sander may be used for hours at a time, with no chance to dissipate the heat ...

[Isan Farang]

Many thanks for the info on the 110v issues, i will now change my plan and acquire one from the UK, Also i described the item as a sander but actually i should have stated dual action polisher.

[sometimewoodworker]

Why buy 110V tools from the US which will likely not function here even with a transformer. ?

There are good tools which can be bought and will work here in Thailand.

An amusing pastime when I was working in the ME was listening to the wails from Americans who had plugged their expensive 110 stuff into 240V outlets !

They will never learn !

Very true. You can even get Festal products at a not outrageous price (for Festool that is)

[KhunBENQ]

Buy some good stuff locally e.g. from Makita which even beats Bosch!

The big home stores have all you need.

Why the fuzz with shipping for such a trivial product.

The 110 V crew. It makes my day.

The best was the 3500 W kettle via Amazon US.

A high tech product unavailable in Thailand

(I hope the OP does not read here )

Edited February 28, 2016 by KhunBENQ

[kamalabob2]

Polishers, even AEG multi tools are available at better tool shops in Thailand. You will have the benefit of a real warranty if you buy power tools in Thailand from a store owner you get to know face to face. My personal experience with corded Hitachi Tools, Makita Tools, DeWALT Tools and Bosch Tools has been positive. No delays on warranty repairs, nor any delays on after warranty repairs on those four brands in Buriram. Repairs and regular preventative maintenance of power tools and lawn mowers has been affordable and pleasant in Buriram.

[Pib]

Don't let the PM see above picture or he'll Article 44 that store!