16amp socket opinions

[brightspark]

Bet you don't unplug it while you're welding though!
Seriously though, it'd be a better idea to put an on/off switch on your welder front panel.

they dont have a front pannel its oil filled tank with the mains conector on the top in a small box

 

[jo1010]

if its wired back to the db just use the mcb to isolate on and off if required

You could......but often the db is a bit of a reach (sited to protect from incidental damage) so not exactly quickly reachable and a bit of a fumble if there's a panic (eg the welder starts smoking or worse). I think it's easier to have a seperately identifiable double pole switch of whatever type closer to hand...but I realise that's only my take on this, and isn't strictly necessary - so I think the real answer is whatever feels both safe and usable...

 

[bricol]

Could you argue being forced to plug/unplug keeps the conductors in the plug and socket nicely clean from being wiped across each other regularly?

 

[mightymig]

There’s a seller on eBay called msparkg selling the used ones in picture with the switch for £10. I just bought one the other day but I think his listing ran out he had loads. Maybe try him?

 

[Munkul]

What type of switches do you use if not the interlocking type. I have been looking and seen some people have used a cooker style wall switch instead of the rotary type.

I like the rotary type, to be honest I use the 3 or 4 pole isolators on all my stuff as it's mostly 3 phase.

 

[Robotstar5]

I fitted the interlocked 16A & 32A sockets in my garage mainly because that was the type they had on the shelf in the stores at work

 

[EBME2]

For workshop use the interlocked would be my choice, my welder has it’s on/off at the rear I just switch off at the isolator now.

Nothing lost by fitting ones with isolators apart from a few quid.

Slight negative experience, bought one cheap off eBay and seller never dispatched probably because of the price, ended up on a protracted dispute.

 

[GRW]

Where I used to work we went through a lot of IEE Form Plugs & Sockets up to 125A, as well as Power locks up to 800A.

Gewiss are a well-known brand, but pricey & with minimum order levels etc.
I used PCE stuff for years and it was decent kit, sourced from KES (good stocks, prices and delivery).