What’s the catch in using phase-to-neutral for 115V?

[frothic|approach]

Im adding branch fuses to a new control panel and trying to free up space by ditching the transformer. If I use phase-to-neutral from a 208V supply, will it fry my components or cause other headaches? Seems like a no brainer but I've been wrong before yikes lol

 

[poseidon't]

Im adding branch fuses to a new control panel and trying to free up space by ditching the transformer. If I use phase-to-neutral from a 208V supply, will it fry my components or cause other headaches? Seems like a no brainer but I've been wrong before yikes lol

208V phase to neutral is gonna give you 120V, so I guess that should be fine for standard control components. But make sure EVERYTHING is rated for 120V. You'd wanna avoid all the issues. If the loads are sensitive, you make sure you add surge protection.

 

[frothic|approach]

208V phase to neutral is gonna give you 120V, so I guess that should be fine for standard control components. But make sure EVERYTHING is rated for 120V. You'd wanna avoid all the issues. If the loads are sensitive, you make sure you add surge protection.

That's the plan, everything's gotta be rated right or it's asking for trouble. Surge protection's a good call too, just in case. Ever run into weird compatibility issues when switching to a different transformer?

 

[VoltWise]

Yeah, you can grab 120V from phase-to-neutral on a 208V supply, but only if you've got a proper neutral run. No neutral, no go. Also, skipping the control transformer can cause issues with SCCR compliance and fault protection. I've seen setups get weird when pulling single-phase loads off a 208V system too.

Curious, do you have a neutral in that panel, or thinking of pulling one in?

 

[OhmMy]

Great discussion going on here, really good tips from everyone involved. Voltwise brings up an excellent point about how SCCR and fault protection can become complicated without the control transformer, especially in a cramped panel layout. I'm also wondering, do you already have a reliable neutral connected in that panel, or are you thinking about bringing one in? And have you sized your branch fuses properly for that direct 120V tap configuration?

 

[frothic|approach]

This is the catch I was looking for. I do have a verified neutral in the panel but you're right. I hadn't fully considered the SCCR implications of ditching the transformer. That's a whole other can of worms I need to get my head around now.