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nothermark · 10-19-2017, 04:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Vicr

The iron is an inductive load and will draw maximum amps as soon as it is plugged in or turned on. This will cause a drop in voltage at the converter which will cause it to shut down temporarily until the voltage rises to sufficient operating voltage to supply 12v. It's basic OHMs law. It would be prudent though to make sure all electrical connection on the shore power side and in the converter.

I think you might want to re think that. An Iron is a big low value resistor. All it does is make heat. True, the element is a coil of nichrome or similar but the induction is low. Unless it shares the circuit with the converter the rest of the system should be stiff enough to take the iron load. That would have me checking the transfer switch and main panel connections for a loose screw. That is a common problem as the heavy wiring in a screw compression fitting tends to loosen over time. There have been numerous examples posted here of wires eventually failing with a long streak of cooked insulation from the heat generated at the connection.

Vicr · 10-19-2017, 10:18 AM

Yes, I meant to say RESISTIVE LOAD.

edge68474 · 10-20-2017, 06:59 AM

AHAA. Now I know the go to guy in electrical, IBEW, who lives not too far from me. Hello neighbor. I'm retired equipment operator, 302. I live in Onalaska, Land of the Free, Home of the Brave. Hope we can keep it that way. As you can see I'm new to the boards and learning.
Speaking of irons, we don't use it much around this home, but, when it kicks in the lights dim in the house. Juice robbing little bugger eh.
Have a Good Day.

aether_one · 10-20-2017, 07:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nothermark

I think you might want to re think that. An Iron is a big low value resistor. All it does is make heat. True, the element is a coil of nichrome or similar but the induction is low. Unless it shares the circuit with the converter the rest of the system should be stiff enough to take the iron load. That would have me checking the transfer switch and main panel connections for a loose screw. That is a common problem as the heavy wiring in a screw compression fitting tends to loosen over time. There have been numerous examples posted here of wires eventually failing with a long streak of cooked insulation from the heat generated at the connection.

Although he said "Inductive" when he meant resistive his reasoning was still correct. The resistance of the heating element is low when cool and increases with temperature so there is maximum current when it is first turned on.

nothermark · 10-21-2017, 02:53 AM

More or less agreed on current, the point is that he should not be taking down more than the branch circuit if that. It's unlikely that would be shared with his converter. That is why I would be looking for loose connections. I squared R does not take a lot of R to make a significant drop and heat when talking irons or other heavy current draws.