[Jack E/NJ]

HCO41>>>The data plate shows 37amps if hooked up to 120volts, 18.5 amps if hooked to 220volts.>>>

Yes, in a dual voltage motor there are two taps on its windings that give two different impedances(resistances). One tap is used if wired for 110v. The other tap is used if wired for 220v. The impedance of the 220v tap is approximately twice the impedance of the 110v tap so that the power output of the motor is about the same whether connected to handle 110v or to handle 220v. Power is defined as P=IE so, yes, the motor will draw half the amps at 220v as at 110v if the taps are connected properly. However, if you try to apply 220 volts to the lower impedance 110v tap, you will likely burn out the motor, since you will exceed the amp capacity of the 110v windings by a factor of 2.

In my previous post the 6v example results in 0.5 amp, and the 12v example results in 1 amp in accordance with I=E/R. That is, the 12 volt current is twice the 6v current for the **same** impedance.

Hope this helps.

Jack E/NJ