7.5HP, 1PH, 38A, 208–240V, 25–40A WEG Magnetic Starter – WEG38-7.5-1-230
The WEG38-7.5-1-230 magnetic starter is a dedicated control and protection solution for 7.5 HP single-phase electric motors operating on 208–240V power. It is particularly well suited for air compressor duty, where motors experience high inrush current and frequent start/stop cycles. With a 38A CWB38 contactor and an adjustable 25–40A thermal overload relay, this starter provides dependable motor starting, overload protection, and long-term reliability in a compact enclosed package.
Key specifications
- Horsepower: 7.5 HP
- Phase: Single phase
- Contactor amperage: 38 A (CWB38 contactor)
- Overload range: Adjustable 25–40 A (thermal overload relay)
- Coil voltage: 208–240 VAC
- Typical use: 7.5 HP, 230V-class single-phase motors, especially air compressors
Designed for 7.5 HP single-phase air compressor motors
This starter is engineered around the electrical demands of 7.5 HP single-phase motors at 208–240V, which draw significant starting current and see regular cycling. The 38A contactor and 25–40A overload range align with the full-load current of most 7.5 HP single-phase compressor motors, giving you a correctly sized control and protection package instead of an undersized light-duty device.
When set to match the motor’s nameplate full-load amps, the overload relay helps protect the motor from sustained overcurrent conditions and extended overloads. This reduces the risk of overheated windings, nuisance tripping, and premature motor failure.
WEG CWB38 contactor and thermal overload
At the core of this starter is WEG’s CWB38 contactor paired with an adjustable thermal overload relay. The CWB series is widely used in industrial control panels and OEM equipment due to its compact footprint, dependable performance, and ready availability of replacement parts.
Key internal features:
1. Thermal overload protection
- Bimetallic thermal elements provide time-delayed trip characteristics suitable for motor protection.
- Allows normal inrush during startup while reacting to abnormal overcurrent and locked-rotor conditions.
2. Adjustable 25–40A range
- One overload device covers a broad current range.
- The dial can be set precisely to the motor’s nameplate full-load amps for accurate protection.
3. Auxiliary contact options
- Auxiliary contacts allow integration of start/stop stations, interlocks, and indication lights.
- Makes it easy to build out a simple, reliable motor control circuit.
208–240V coil for flexible control
The 208–240V coil voltage lets you tie directly into common 230V-class systems without requiring a separate control transformer in many installations. As long as you have a suitable control feed within that voltage range, the coil can be operated directly, simplifying wiring and reducing parts count.
This is especially convenient for:
- Dedicated 230V single-phase air compressor circuits
- Replacement of older starters on 208–240V services
- Simple start/stop control schemes in small shops and light industrial environments
Enclosed starter for clean, fast installation
The WEG38-7.5-1-230 is supplied as a factory-assembled enclosed starter in a metal NEMA 1 enclosure. The contactor and overload are already wired together inside the enclosure, providing a clean, ready-to-mount solution.
Benefits of the enclosed design:
- Simplified wiring: Line and load terminals are clearly laid out, reducing installation time.
- Accessible reset: Overload reset is reachable on the front of the enclosure, allowing quick restoration after a trip once the issue is corrected.
- Indoor protection: NEMA 1 is appropriate for dry, indoor mechanical rooms, compressor areas, and utility spaces.
Typical applications
This 7.5 HP single-phase WEG magnetic starter is suitable for:
- 7.5 HP stationary piston or rotary air compressors on 208–240V single-phase power
- Other 7.5 HP single-phase motors within the 25–40A full-load amp range (pumps, fans, small machinery)
- New installations and retrofit projects where a robust, brand-name magnetic starter is preferred over generic controls
Installation and compatibility notes
For correct operation and long motor life:
1. Verify motor full-load amps
- Confirm that the motor’s nameplate FLA falls within the 25–40A adjustment range.
- Set the overload dial to match the motor’s FLA.
2. Match voltage and phase
- This unit is designed for single-phase 208–240V motors.
- It is not intended for three-phase motors or 120V-only motors.
3. Use a qualified electrician
- All terminations and settings should be made according to local electrical codes and the manufacturer’s wiring diagram.
4. Use in appropriate environments
- NEMA 1 is for indoor, non-washdown locations.
- For outdoor, damp, or washdown conditions, a higher-rated enclosure (such as NEMA 3R or 4/4X) is required.
Why choose the WEG38-7.5-1-230
Compared to generic or undersized starters, this WEG magnetic starter offers:
- Proper sizing for 7.5 HP, 230V-class single-phase motors
- Industrial-grade WEG CWB38 contactor and overload components
- A factory-enclosed, pre-wired package that streamlines installation
- Reliable overload protection and consistent performance
For a 7.5 HP single-phase compressor or similar motor on 208–240V, the WEG38-7.5-1-230 magnetic starter delivers the level of control and protection expected in professional and industrial environments.
Brochure PDF