These posts are exactly why you need to understand voltage drop and load calculations. Using the feeder breaker size for your voltage drop calculation is not necessary nor accurate. A load calculation of what loads you would be using at any time would probably come up with about 30 Amps, including lights and using your largest tool at any one time- the welder. Once you have these parameters it makes a lot more sense to use wire suited for the calculated load and voltage drop. As a matter or course, as I said before 99% of guys who have a shop could easily get by with a 50-60 amp feeder to the shop panel and never have a problem. About the biggest load most shops have at any time is a welder or air compressor and they seldom pull more than 30 amps on the feed unless you are running a very large professional machine. Using these parameters you could easily install a 60 Amp feeder and pull the appropriate feeder for the load and distance.
How you feed underground is up to you- direct burial cable or PVC conduit is all a matter of preference. Follow code requirements for depth of burial, which is usually 24" under a non drivable surface- 36" under a drivable surface like a gravel driveway . 275 feet is a pretty good pull for most guys, but upsize one conduit size and it should be doable with a bit of help. Vacuuming in the pull line will probably be harder than the pull itself.
About the best suggestion so far is to get a local electrician to come out and tell you what you need and follow his advice. Even if you pay him a few bucks for an hour or two of his time it will be money well spent.
Last edited by Sheister; 02/21/24.
